Your Questions, Answered
Solar Panel Installations in
Norfolk and Beyond
Frequently Asked Questions
CREDENTIALS & EXPERIENCE
Are you certified?
Yes. We hold a number of industry accreditations that back up our dedication to delivering high quality, safe and robust solar installations - including, MCS, NAPIT & CHAS. We are also registered under the the Consumer Code for Renewable Energy to ensure you get a transparent and fair service.
We are also proud to have been accepted as a member on the myenergie approved installer program for EV installs in Norwich and the wider East Anglia region.
How long have you been in business?
We've been installing Solar PVs and Renewable Energy solutions for over 15 years with a focus on commercial businesses. 3 years ago we moved to Norwich and have been expanding our business with Domestic Solar and EV Installations throughout Norwich, Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, Hertfordshire & beyond. We're still continuing with our commercial work too and are proud to be working locally with Norfolk Homes to deliver Solar PVs across 109 new roofs.
Do you have local references?
Yes, we have a number of our recent projects where we've completed Solar Panel Installations in Norwich, Norfolk and Suffolk, detailed here. We would happily ask for references if there are any that particularly resonate with you. We are also proud to have all 5* reviews on Google.
Who will do the installing?
All of our work, from quoting through to aftercare, is carried out directly by Arc Line Design qualified team members. We do not sub-contract and will never leave you guessing who is turning up to do the work. The majority of your contact will be with the Managing Director to ensure consistency.
SYSTEM DESIGN AND INSTALLATION
Is my roof suitable?
This is a key question and we will check this as part of our initial free, no-obligation site visit. We will never push a design if we do not feel the roof is suitable. Every property in Norfolk is different — from coastal homes in Great Yarmouth to rural properties in North Norfolk and city homes in Norwich. That’s why system design is so important.
What products do you use?
We are not fixed to any particular brands, our only stipulation is that they meet the UK compliance and safety standards. As such all solar panels we install are MCS certified. Our inverters are fully compliant with ENA Engineering recommendations. In addition, all mounting systems we use are MCS 012 certified.
How long will installation take?
The actual on-site work or installing the system and wiring can take 1-2 days for smaller projects. Larger systems can take up to 3 days.
From your first quote and survey to having the system fully connected and generating electricity typically takes 2 – 6 weeks for most homes.
Who handles the permits & grid connection?
We will! We take care of all the necessary regulatory steps to ensure a smooth & compliant installation. This includes notifying the Distribution Network Operator (DNO) of the planned work, conducting a thorough assessment of your roof to confirm its suitability, and coordinating with Building Control to ensure all local regulations and standards are met.
Do I need to tell my mortgage lender?
In most cases, yes, it is advisable. Although many lenders are supportive of renewable energy improvements, they may require confirmation that planning permission has been adhered to (if necessary) and that it does not negatively affect the property. Providing details such as installer certification and compliance documentation can help reassure your lender and avoid potential issues. Find out more here.
Do I need planning permission?
In most cases, planning permission is not required because solar panel installations are covered by permitted development rights. However, exceptions apply if your property is listed, in a conservation area, or subject to specific restrictions. It's always advisable to check with your local planning authority if you're unsure to help prevent delays or legal complications later on. More information can be found by visiting the Planning Portal website
COSTS & SAVINGS
What is the absolute total cost?
This will depend on a number of factors - particularly the size of the system installed. However, our quote provides a detailed breakdown of everything that's included. We don't leave anything out so there are never any sudden extra costs, unless you ask for anything to be added that is! Plus there's no VAT to pay on Solar Panels or Batteries until 2027 at least. We've detailed some high level costs here. We have also detailed some of our recent solar installations in Norwich, Norfolk and Suffolk with system size and costs for real examples.
What is the expected payback period?
On average, for a standard Solar PV system without a battery, the payback period is c. 8-12 years. It can be quicker - around 6-10 years - depending on your energy usage and system set-up.
Adding a battery can increase the payback period due to the initial upfront cost but it boosts long-term savings and can further reduce reliance on the grid.
Should I add a battery?
This will depend on your energy usage and budget. It's a good option if you're using more energy at night, want to store energy rather than export to the grid or if you plan to/have an EV charger. However if you're home during the day and using most of the energy you produce or happy exporting excess to the grid then you may not need one. Batteries can be added later if budget doesn't allow at initial set-up - this can be discussed as part of the design.
Do you offer financing?
If paying upfront is not an option, or not preferred, then we can help you understand other finance options that might be available for you. There are providers that can offer a Lease plan which will enable you to pay in instalments or providers that can offer a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) - you won't own the system but you will benefit from the lower electricity costs.
WARRANTIES & MAINTENANCE
What warranties do you provide?
All of our Solar Panel installations come with a 25 Year Panel Product warranty, 30 Year Panel Performance warranty, 10 Year Battery and Inverter warranty (if you chose our recommended manufacturer FoxESS). In addition you have our workmanship warranty of 10 years covering the quality of our installation, which also covers the replacement of any in-warranty components.
What maintenance is required?
While your Solar PV system is designed to be largely “fit and forget” and doesn’t require a formal maintenance package, ongoing monitoring plays an important role in keeping it running smoothly and performing at its best. We’ll continue to be on hand to answer any questions and offer guidance long after your workmanship warranty has ended — and at no extra cost.
Get In Touch
Ready to discover exactly how much energy and savings solar panels could generate for your home? Contact us, your local solar panel installer in Norwich, to design a system tailored to your property, energy usage, and budget—with no obligation and no pushing of unsuitable systems.
Call Arc Line Design today on 01603 975115 or use our contact form.





