Solar Installation Condition Report

Solar Installation Condition Report

As a solar system owner, you want the peace of mind that your solar installation is safe, efficient, and operating as intended. Regular inspections are essential to ensure your system complies with safety standards, maximises energy output, and remains in optimal condition over time.

The Solar Installation Condition Report (SICR) is a detailed assessment carried out by a qualified professional. It involves the following:

• Inspection of the earthing system and supply characteristics – Ensuring the system is properly grounded for safety.
• Inspection of the inverter and associated components – Checking for faults, inefficiencies, or signs of wear in energy conversion equipment.
• Inspection of solar panels and mounting systems – Verifying structural integrity, alignment, and cleanliness to optimise performance.
• Inspection of wiring and connections – Ensuring all cables and connections are secure, undamaged, and compliant with regulations.
• Testing the polarity of the system – Confirming correct electrical flow and system functionality.
• Testing earth continuity of circuits – Ensuring all circuits are safely earthed to prevent electrical hazards.
• Testing the integrity of cabling insulation – Checking for damage or wear that could compromise safety or efficiency.
• Testing protective devices – Ensuring isolators, breakers, and other safety devices function correctly to protect your system and property.

around 3-4 hours

It is generally recommended that an SICR is carried out every ten years (five for privately rented properties) or when there is a change of occupancy in a dwelling. Typically an SICR will take around 3-4 hours to complete, depending on the size of a property and the number of circuits requiring testing.

A Solar Installation Condition Report (SICR) checks whether your solar system is operating safely and efficiently, identifying faults that may not be visible during a basic inspection. Common issues include damaged wiring, faulty inverters, or poor earthing, which could lead to inefficiencies, fire risks, or electrical hazards. SICR testing ensures that all components of your solar installation meet safety standards and are functioning as intended.

A visual inspection may also be carried out to provide a quick overview of your system’s condition. This includes checking for visible damage to solar panels, loose or corroded connections, and signs of overheating or wear on cables. The inspection will also assess the inverter, mounting system, and any protective devices, such as isolators, to ensure they are in good working order. Regular visual checks are recommended between full SICR tests to maintain system safety and performance.

After the SICR test is completed, the engineer will produce a detailed report. This report will highlight any damage, deterioration, or defects, as well as any components that do not meet current safety standards. If the test identifies any issues, the SICR will be classified as “unsatisfactory,” meaning remedial work is required to address the risks. The report will also categorise the issues using the following codes:

• C1 – ‘Danger is present,’ posing an immediate risk of injury. Urgent action is required.
• C2 – Potentially dangerous, requiring prompt remedial action.
• C3 – Improvement is recommended. This is the only code that can appear on a report while still passing the SICR test.

Once all necessary remedial work has been completed and your system passes the inspection, you will be issued a SICR Certificate of Safety. This certificate provides peace of mind that your solar installation is safe, compliant, and operating efficiently.

While there is no specific legislation requiring homeowners, businesses, or landlords to have a Solar Installation Condition Report (SICR) certificate, various laws outline the responsibilities of landlords and employers to ensure safety. For example, the Landlord and Tenant Act (1985) and the Health and Safety at Work Act (1974) set out the duty of care landlords and employers have towards tenants and employees. Additionally, the Electricity at Work Regulations (1989) require precautions to be taken to minimise the risk of injury caused by electricity used in work activities.