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.
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)
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.
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.
✅ 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.
Speak with our trusted partners at GU Solutions. Their experienced team provides high-quality, reliable solar solutions tailored to your property and energy goals, ensuring you get the most from your investment in renewable energy.
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.
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.
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.
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-free – Book your appointment today!
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.
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