Is my house suitable for solar panels?

Solar panels can work well on a wide range of UK homes, but many can benefit more than you might expect. The layout of your roof, how much clear space you have, and even what materials your roof is made from all play a part in whether a solar installation is practical. Understanding the basics can help you decide if your property is ready for solar panels.
‍

With more UK households looking for ways to save on energy costs, solar panels have become a popular solution.  The benefits of solar include reducing your monthly electricity bill, increasing your energy independence, and reducing your impact on the environment by taking advantage of renewable energy.

‍

Of course, before you can enjoy these benefits, you’ll need to answer an important question: “Is my home suitable for solar panels?” The answer depends on several factors unique to your property, including your roof’s structure, the amount of sunlight your home receives, and your location.  Tools like a solar panel suitability checker can provide a quick assessment, but it’s helpful to understand what actually determines whether your home is a good match for solar.

That’s why it’s important to look closely at the main factors that affect your home’s suitability before deciding to invest in solar panels.

Key Factors: Is Your Home Suitable for Solar Panels?

Solar panels are a strong option for many UK homes, but some practical details affect whether they’ll work efficiently and safely for you. Here are the main factors that determine your home’s eligibility, and why each one matters:

Location

It’s a bit obvious, but the amount of sunlight your home gets influences how much solar power you can generate.. Homes in South West England typically generate 30% more solar energy annually than those in the Shetland Islands of Scotland, according to solaradvice.co.uk. Still, solar panels have proven to be a success for over a million UK homes nationwide.

Roof Angle and Orientation

A south-facing roof at a 30 to 40 degree angle is ideal for maximising sunlight in the UK, but east- and west-facing roofs also work well for many properties. What matters most is that your roof gets a fair amount of daylight during the day.

Roof Materials

The material your roof is made from plays a big role in solar panel installation. Most traditional roofing in the UK, such as tile, slate, asphalt, or metal, provides a sturdy foundation for solar panels. But, if your roof is built from less common materials such as glass or thatch, it may need a closer look, as these are more delicate and could require special handling. It’s best to have a solar specialist assess your roof so you can be sure of the safest and most effective way to move forward with solar.

Roof Condition

Solar panels add weight and require secure mounting. If your roof is damaged, unstable, or in poor condition, it won’t safely support the system. Roofs that need major repairs aren’t considered eligible for solar until these issues are fixed.

Available Roof Space

You need enough roof space to fit the number of panels you need to meet your energy needs. If your roof is small or has too many obstructions, like chimneys or skylights, you may not be able to install enough panels to make solar worthwhile.

Shading

Any objects that cast shade across your roof, such as trees or nearby buildings, will reduce the amount of sunlight reaching your panels. Heavy or frequent shading can significantly limit your system’s output, making some homes unsuitable for solar. 

Local Regulations and Permits

In the UK, you don’t need planning permission to install solar panels, unless your home is listed or in a conservation area, in which case you should contact your local authority. But you can’t install panels any way you like. Use an MCS-certified installer to make sure everything obeys regulations.

If you want to see how your home stacks up based on these points, a solar panel roof suitability checker can help you quickly identify if your property meets the key criteria.

What Roofs Aren't Suitable For Solar Panels?

Most homes in the UK are suitable for solar panels, but there are a few exceptions that might need a closer look. If your roof is made of glass or thatch, it’s usually too delicate to safely hold solar panels. Roofs with asbestos aren’t suitable for solar installation either, but if you upgrade to a modern, safe material, solar becomes an option. Sometimes, a roof that’s in poor condition or has a complex shape may need repairs or an expert assessment before going ahead. If you’re unsure, our team is always happy to advise and help you find the best solution for bringing solar energy to your home.

Solar Panels Quote

Our Solar Panel experts make it easy to find out if your house is suitable, and how much it could cost you to go solar. Get a no-obligation quote by filling in a few details in our solar quote checker. 

Understanding How Solar Panels Power Your Home

Solar panels might look simple on your roof, but there’s clever science behind the scenes. Each panel is packed with photovoltaic (PV) cells, which act like tiny power stations, capturing sunlight and turning it into direct current (DC) electricity for your home.

There are three main types of solar panels used in UK homes:

1. Monocrystalline: Built from single-crystal silicon, these panels offer the highest efficiency and work well even when roof space is limited. They’re a good fit for smaller or shaded roofs where getting the most energy per square metre matters.
2. Polycrystalline: Made from multiple silicon fragments melted together, these panels are slightly less efficient but more affordable. They’re ideal for homes with plenty of roof space where maximising panel count, not squeezing out every watt, is the priority.
3. Thin-film: Lightweight and flexible, thin-film panels can be installed on roofs that can’t support heavier traditional panels. While they take up more space for the same output, they’re a useful option for unusual roof shapes or when aesthetics are a concern.

Choosing the right type depends on your roof, your energy needs, and your long-term goals. Our team is happy to help you compare your options and find the right system for you. 

Make Sure Your Home Is Ready For Solar Panels

Before you commit the time, energy, and money to install solar panels, it’s important to make sure your home meets or addresses the requirements set out above. While this may seem daunting to do on your own, our professional solar experts can help you assess the suitability of your home quickly, easily, and affordably.

‍

Read more:

Solar Panel Grants and Funding Explained

Solar Panel Maintenance Guide

Do Solar Panels Work in the Winter?

‍

So Energy is ready to help you switch to solar

‍

If you’re unsure whether your home is suitable for solar or you’re ready to move ahead with a solar installation, our experts at So Energy are ready to assist. Use our no-obligation quote checker to learn find the solar system that suits your house.

‍

Find Out How Much You Could Save With Solar

Wondering if solar panels could lower your energy bills? Find out if your home is eligible and discover how much you could save each year by switching to solar.

It only takes four simple steps to get started:

1. Tell us about your home so we can create your tailored quote
   
   
2. Complete a quick home survey – virtual or in-person
   
   
3. Book your engineer visit for final checks and measurements
   
   
4. Get your panels installed and start saving from day one

It’s that easy to cut your bills and take control of your energy.

[Get Solar Panel Quote & Possible Savings]

‍

Stay Plugged Into Our Latest News & Views

‍

We publish news regularly, keeping you informed on new products, industry changes and more.

Discover More

‍

Interested in installing Solar? You can now, from as little as £75/month

The Cost of Solar Panels In The UK

Get Solar With 0% Finance

Different types of solar panels in the UK

Solar Panel Grants and Funding Explained

How do solar batteries work & store energy?

How Many Solar Panels Do I Need

‍

‍

‍