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Solar PV
Inspection
& Testing

Solar PV (photovoltaic) systems offer long-term savings and sustainability benefits—but without regular inspection and testing, even the best systems can become unsafe or inefficient.

At ESI: Electrical Safety Inspections, we provide expert Solar PV inspection and testing services for commercial, industrial, and agricultural installations across Surrey, Berkshire, Hampshire and Kent.

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Why Inspect Solar PV Installations?

While solar PV systems are generally reliable, they are still electrical systems—and like any fixed wiring installation, they require periodic inspection and maintenance to ensure safe operation.

Over time, your system can develop:

  • Degraded or loose connections

  • Damaged cabling or insulation breakdown

  • Dirt or debris build-up reducing efficiency

  • Overheating of connectors or junction boxes

  • Inverter issues or failures in DC isolators

Without inspection, these faults can remain hidden—posing a fire risk, reducing energy yield, or affecting insurance cover.

We help you maintain compliance with:

  • Electricity at Work Regulations 1989

  • Health and Safety at Work Act 1974

  • BS 7671:2018+A3:2024 (IET Wiring Regulations)

Connecting a solar PV system to the grid requires compliance with ENA Engineering Recommendations:

  • G98 – For systems up to 16A per phase (small-scale/domestic)

  • G99 – For larger commercial systems

  • Installation must be notified and/or approved by the Distribution Network Operator (DNO)

What Our Solar PV Inspections Include:

Our qualified engineers carry out detailed inspections on the entire solar PV system, from roof-mounted panels to inverters and AC connection points:

  • Visual inspection of PV modules, supports and cabling

  • Thermal imaging to identify hotspots and overheating connections

  • DC and AC cable checks for integrity, routing and termination

  • Inverter inspection and test readings

  • Function testing of isolation switches, RCDs and surge protection (if fitted)

  • Electrical test results for voltage, current, insulation resistance and earth continuity

  • Written report with photos, findings and any recommendations for remedial work

Whether you have a 4kW domestic, 10kW commercial system or a larger industrial or agricultural installation, our team provides clear, comprehensive reporting.

Inspection Frequency

We recommend aligning your Solar PV inspection frequency with your fixed wire testing (EICR) schedule, based on your risk assessment:

  • Every 5 years for most commercial premises – schools, care homes, offices, homes, etc.

  • Every 3 years for industrial or high-risk environments

  • Every 3 years for agricultural sites due to increased exposure to dust, moisture and mechanical impact

We also offer one-off inspections for insurance purposes, change of ownership, or system performance concerns.

Why Choose ESI?

Experienced engineers with knowledge of both AC and DC systems

Thermal imaging included to detect heat-related faults early

BS 7671 compliant inspections with clear reports

Independent advice – we’re not tied to any installer or manufacturer

Serving businesses across Hampshire, Surrey, Berkshire, Kent, East Sussex & West Sussex

If you’re unsure when your system was last inspected, or you’ve noticed a drop in performance, now is the time to schedule a check.

SOLAR PV INSPECTION & TESTING

Need Help with
Inspections of your Solar PV systems?
Let’s Talk!

Ensure your solar PV system remains safe, compliant and efficient. Whether you operate a business, farm, school, care home or industrial unit, our expert team is here to help.

IET Code of Practice compliant surge protection devices.
Fast, professional support for businesses & landlords
Serving Surrey, Berkshire, Hampshire & Kent.

📅 Book your appointment today! Fill out the form, and our experts will be in touch.

Call us on 01276 300 351

FAQ - FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Popular Questions

Solar PV systems are complex electrical installations that operate under high voltages and challenging conditions — especially in commercial, industrial, and agricultural settings.

To ensure continued performance and safety, the IET Wiring Regulations (BS 7671:2018 + A3:2024) and the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 highlight the importance of regular inspection and testing of photovoltaic systems.

In this section, we answer common questions about solar PV inspections, including legal requirements, testing procedures, fault detection methods, and recommended inspection intervals.

Whether you manage a rooftop commercial array, a ground-mounted farm installation, or solar power for a public or educational building, our expert guidance will help you understand why proper inspection is essential for safety, compliance, and long-term performance.

Frequently Asked Questions – Surge Protection

Yes. Even systems that appear to be working well can develop hidden faults that reduce efficiency or pose fire risks.

Regular inspection ensures both performance and safety.

Under the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, all electrical systems—including solar PV—must be maintained in a safe condition.

Yes, we visually inspect accessible components and connections, but we do not climb onto roofs unless safe access is provided.

We inspect wiring to the inverter, isolators and distribution boards.

Absolutely.

We provide a detailed inspection report with photos, test readings and clear recommendations.

Yes.

We inspect systems installed by any contractor or installer, and provide impartial advice.

Need more help? Let's Schedule An Appointment

Got questions about electrical safety, fire alarms, or compliance testing? Let’s chat!

Expert advice on EICRs, PAT Testing, Fire Alarms & More
Flexible appointment times to suit your schedule
Qualified professionals serving Surrey, Berkshire, Hampshire & Kent

Simply fill out the form below, and one of our specialists will contact you to book a consultation at a time that works for you.

📅 On-Site & Remote Appointments Available
📍 Serving Businesses, Landlords & Property Managers

Let’s make your property safe, compliant, and risk-freeBook your appointment today!

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Fill out the form below, and one of our electrical and fire safety specialists will get back to you as soon as possible.

📞 Prefer to speak to us directly? Call us at 01276 300 351
📧 Or email us at office@esielectrical.co.uk

We aim to respond to all inquiries within 24 hours.