Installers

The Kiwi Guide

Finding a Solar Installer Who Won't Muck It Up

So you’ve decided to join the solar revolution? Choice! But before you let just anyone climb all over your roof with thousands of dollars’ worth of gear, here’s how to separate the pros from the cowboys.

Do They Actually Know Their Stuff?

Anyone can slap "solar expert" on their ute, but do they have the credentials to back it up? Look for:

SEANZ membership – The Sustainable Energy Association of NZ is our industry watchdog. If they're not a member, that's a red flag bigger than the one at Waitangi.

CEC accreditation – Qualified solar designers and installers have done proper training, not just watched a few YouTube tutorials.

Electrical registration – Because, you know, electricity on your roof and all that.

Pro tip: Ask how many systems they've installed. If they start umming and ahhing, back away slowly.

Stand Alone Exterior Solar Panel System Installation, Renewable Green Energy Generation Concept.
Growing Home Sale Graph With Solar Panels

Get Multiple Quotes

(But Not From Trade Me)

Don't just go with the first sparky who offers to "sort you out, bro." Get at least 3 quotes and compare:

What they're actually offering – Some quotes look cheaper because they're using budget panels that'll give up faster than a Wellingtonian's umbrella in a southerly.

The warranties – Not just on hardware but on the installation itself.

The fine print – Are they subcontracting the work? Will they handle the paperwork with your lines company?

Stalk Them

(In a Totally Legal Way)

Before signing anything:

Google them harder than you stalked your ex – Check Google reviews, Facebook pages, and industry forums.

Ask for references from actual customers – Ideally ones who've had their system for a couple of years, not just the neighbor they installed for last week.

Drive by some of their installs – Neat, tidy installations with well-secured cables suggest they're not just throwing panels up and hoping for the best.

A Man Is Using A Notebook Computer To Searching For Information. A Virtual Screen Of The Search Website Browser For Finding Data On The Internet. Global Network, Search Engine Optimization Technology
Business Man Recommending Contract And Customer Refusing It

The "Yeah Nah" Test

When you're talking to potential installers, listen for these warning signs:

  • "Yeah nah, you don't need council consent" (sometimes you do)
  • "Yeah nah, any electrician can connect it" (not true)
  • "Yeah nah, this Chinese brand is just as good as LG" (doubt)
  • "Yeah nah, we'll be finished in a day, she'll be right" (it's rarely right)

After-Sales Support

What happens when something goes wrong? Because something always does in NZ – we're practically built on Murphy's Law.

Do they have a local service team? Or will you be stuck on hold with someone in another hemisphere?

What's their response time for issues? Next day? Next week? Next solar eclipse?

Do they handle warranty claims or will they ghosty you faster than a Tinder match?

Local Knowledge Matters

Call Center Agent With Headset Working On Support Hotline In Modern Office.
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A good installer knows

  • That Auckland humidity is different from Central Otago frost
  • How to secure panels that can handle Cape Reinga winds
  • Which power companies offer decent buy-back rates in your area
  • Whether your local lines company has any quirky requirements

The Bottom Line

Finding a good solar installer is a bit like finding a good flat white – everyone claims theirs is the best, but the proof is in the experience. Take your time, do your homework, and remember: if someone’s offering a deal that seems too good to be true, they’re probably about as reliable as Auckland public transport during rush hour.

And if all else fails, just ask around at your local. Someone’s cousin’s mate has probably got solar and will give you the unfiltered truth over a cold one. That’s the Kiwi way, after all.

The best first step?

Get a proper assessment of your home. Every property is different, and a professional can tell you exactly what kind of setup would work best for your situation.

Start Here
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