Finding a reliable installer
Making improvements to your home can be a big step. And choosing the right person to do the work is important.
Introduction
Making improvements to your home can be a big step. And choosing the right person to do the work is important. A trusted, installer can give you peace of mind that the job will be safe, high-quality and long-lasting.
We’re here to help you make confident, informed decisions. Here we take you through:
- Practical guidance on finding installers
- Links to trusted schemes
- Tips for checking accreditation and comparing quotes
Why should I use trusted, accredited installers?
You should use trusted installers because it protects your home and ensures the work is high quality.
Upgrades like insulation, heat pumps or solar panels need experienced specialists. Using accredited installers means:
- Quality workmanship: Work meets recognised standards and is inspected where needed.
- Consumer protection: Accreditation schemes offer guarantees or dispute resolution if something goes wrong.
- Access to funding: Many grants and financial support schemes require approved installers.
- Better performance: Proper installation ensures any new technology performs as promised, saving you money on your energy bills.
How do I find a trusted installer?
We can help you find trusted, local installers.
Choosing the right tradesperson doesn’t have to be stressful. We can:
- Recommend the right accreditation schemes for your project
- Point you to local, trusted installers
- Give you advice on grants or finance schemes that require approved installers
We can also answer any questions you have about finding a reliable installer. Get in touch for free, impartial advice.
What accreditation schemes are there?
Here are the main schemes to look for when choosing an installer:
TrustMark
What it covers: TrustMark is the UK Government-endorsed quality scheme for home improvements. TrustMark-registered businesses meet high standards for technical competence, customer service and financial protection.
MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme)
What it covers: MCS certifies installers and products for renewable technologies such as solar panels, heat pumps and biomass boilers. You must use an MCS-certified installer for schemes like the Smart Export Guarantee or the Boiler Upgrade Scheme.
Gas Safe Register
What it covers: The official list of qualified gas engineers in the UK. It’s illegal for someone to carry out gas work if they’re not on this list.
Competent Persons Schemes
What it covers: Different Competent Person Schemes apply to different trades. Using a registered company ensures they follow building regulations and provide a compliance certificate.
Which? Trusted Trades
What it covers: A consumer-recommended scheme that independently reviews businesses for reliability, customer service and fair pricing.
How do I compare installers?
Choosing the right tradesperson can make all the difference to your project. To help you feel confident, get at least three quotes to compare costs, timelines and approaches. Here are some example questions to ask and tips for comparing quotes and checking credentials.
- Use the official directories of the relevant accreditation scheme
- Ask to see certificates or membership numbers
- Look for recent, local customer reviews or case studies
- How many similar installations have you completed locally?
- What warranties or aftercare do you offer?
- Will you manage all necessary permissions e.g. building regulations, planning?
- Costs and payment terms.
- Start and completion dates.
- Details of guarantees.
- Who to contact if something goes wrong.
- Keep records of all correspondence and agreements.
- Check work against manufacturer or scheme guidelines.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for adjustments before making final payments.
- Avoid cash-only deals – pay by card or bank transfer so you have a clear record of payment.
- Beware of pressure selling – a reputable installer will give you time to decide.
- Trust your instincts – if something feels wrong, get a second opinion.
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