The full timeline: 4–8 weeks
The roof installation takes 1–2 days. But the full process from first contact to generating electricity spans 4–8 weeks. Most of that is the pre-installation phase — site survey, system design, DNO notification, and scheduling.
Step 1: Survey and quotes (Week 1–2)
An MCS-certified installer visits your property for a site survey. They'll assess your roof (orientation, pitch, condition, shading), check your electrical consumer unit, review your electricity usage, and design a system.
Get at least 3 quotes. Prices vary by 15–25% between installers for the same system size. Request free quotes from Leeds installers here.
Step 2: Design and DNO notification (Week 2–4)
The installer designs your system using MCS-approved software and submits a G98/G99 notification to your Distribution Network Operator (Northern Powergrid in Leeds). For systems under 3.68kW (single phase), this is a simple notification — no approval needed. Larger systems (3.68–16kW) require DNO approval, which takes 10–25 working days.
Step 3: Installation day (1–2 days)
What happens on the day:
- Scaffolding erected (usually the day before). Cost is included in your quote.
- Roof mounting system installed. Brackets are fixed to the rafters through the tiles, with weatherproof flashing to prevent leaks.
- Rails attached. Aluminium rails connect to the brackets, creating a frame for the panels.
- Panels mounted. Panels clip onto the rails. Wiring runs under the panels to the inverter location (usually the loft or garage).
- Inverter installed. Mounted indoors, connected to the panels and your consumer unit.
- System commissioned. The installer tests everything, verifies output, and configures the monitoring app.
- Scaffolding removed (same day or next day).
Step 4: Post-installation (Week 4–8)
- MCS certificate issued. Your installer registers the installation on the MCS database and provides your certificate.
- Smart meter installed. If you don't already have a SMETS2 meter, your energy supplier installs one for free. Takes 2–4 weeks to arrange.
- SEG registration. Apply to your chosen supplier for the Smart Export Guarantee. Processing: 2–4 weeks.
- Building control notification. Your installer submits a notification under Part P of building regulations. No inspection is usually needed for a straightforward install.
What about disruption?
Minimal. The installation team works on the roof and in the loft/garage — the rest of your home is unaffected. Electricity is switched off for 1–2 hours during the consumer unit connection. You can stay in your home throughout. The main inconvenience is scaffolding on the pavement for 2–3 days.
For ongoing maintenance after installation, see our maintenance guide. Compare Leeds installers and start the process today.