Why your house has them

Why your new build came with solar

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How we are paid. We are paid a fee by installers when we introduce a homeowner who asks for a quote. It does not change your price, and we are not paid more by one installer than another for the same job. In full.

Short answer

England published the Future Homes and Buildings Standards technical specification on 24 March 2026. Government says the standards come into force on 24 March 2027, followed by transitional arrangements, and that solar will be included for the majority of new homes. Check which rules apply to the individual development.

Applies to
England
Specification published
24 March 2026
Comes into force
24 March 2027
Solar
Expected on most new homes
By the UKSolars editorial team Updated 2026-09-09
Sources checked 2026-09-09 Future Homes Standard: checked 2026-08-23

The standard changes how new homes in England are assessed. It does not tell a buyer that a particular array is optimally sized, commissioned correctly or registered for export payment.

Ask the developer which rules apply

Transitional arrangements mean neighbouring phases can be built under different standards. Ask for the building-control notice or equivalent evidence identifying the standard used for your plot. Do not infer it only from the reservation or completion date.

Solar handover still matters

At completion, obtain the system capacity, panel and inverter models, installation and commissioning certificates, network correspondence, warranties, monitoring access and an explanation of isolators. Confirm who owns the equipment and who is entitled to export income.

A compliant new home can still have an incomplete solar handover

Building compliance, equipment warranties and an accepted SEG contract are separate. Keep a written record for each one.

Next, follow the new-build export setup and only then assess whether adding a battery fits your use.

Common questions

Does the Future Homes Standard apply across the UK?
No. The cited Future Homes and Buildings Standards and Building Circular apply to England. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have separate building-regulation systems.
Will every new home have solar panels?
Government says solar will be included for the majority of new homes. The applicable technical rules and transitional provisions determine the position for an individual development, so ask the developer which standard and notice apply.

Sources

Checked 2026-09-09. Rates, rules and eligibility can change. Confirm current terms before signing a contract or applying for funding.

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