The cost of solar panels varies significantly depending on your property type. A detached house with a large south-facing roof is straightforward. A mid-terrace Victorian with a north-east facing roof and dormers is a different proposition entirely. This guide gives you specific costs and considerations for every UK property type.
Detached Houses
Detached properties typically have the most roof space and flexibility. With no party wall restrictions and often unobstructed roof access, installation is straightforward and costs are at the standard rate.
| System Size | Cost | Annual Savings | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 kWp (10 panels) | £6,500 – £8,000 | £660 – £900 | Covers typical 3-bed needs |
| 6 kWp (15 panels) | £8,500 – £11,000 | £950 – £1,300 | 4-5 bed with EV |
| 8-10 kWp (20-25 panels) | £10,000 – £15,000 | £1,200 – £2,000 | Large property, high usage |
Semi-Detached Houses
Semis typically have roof space for 8-15 panels depending on orientation. The main consideration is which side faces south. If only the front or back faces south, you may be limited to 6-8 panels on that elevation. East/west split installations (panels on both sides) are increasingly common and deliver good all-day generation.
Costs are identical to detached properties for the same system size. The only premium is if scaffolding access is restricted by neighbouring properties.
Terraced Houses
Mid-terrace properties have the smallest roof footprint, typically supporting 6-10 panels. End-of-terrace properties have a side wall/roof that may provide additional space.
Key considerations for terraces: limited roof space means maximising output per panel is critical (use high-efficiency 400W+ monocrystalline). Scaffolding may need to be erected across the front or rear, potentially affecting neighbours. In conservation areas, front-facing panels may need planning permission.
| Terrace Type | Typical System | Cost | Annual Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mid-terrace | 3-4 kWp (6-10 panels) | £5,000 – £7,500 | £500 – £750 |
| End-of-terrace | 4-6 kWp (10-15 panels) | £6,500 – £10,000 | £660 – £1,200 |
Bungalows
Bungalows often have excellent solar potential — large roof area relative to floor space, and no scaffolding required (or minimal scaffolding), saving £400-£800. The roof pitch is sometimes shallower than two-storey houses, which can actually improve summer generation.
The reduced scaffolding cost means bungalow installations are typically £400-£800 cheaper than an equivalent system on a two-storey house.
Flats and Apartments
Individual flat owners generally cannot install solar on shared roofs without freeholder and management company permission. Options include:
- Communal solar — the building installs a shared system, with costs and savings split between residents
- Balcony panels — plug-in solar panels (600-800W) that connect to a standard socket. Cost £300-£600, save £80-£150/year. No installation required.
- Ground-mounted — only if you own a garden area. Costs 15-20% more than rooftop due to the mounting frame, but avoids any roof work.
Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas
Listed buildings require Listed Building Consent before installing solar panels. This does not mean panels are prohibited — many listed buildings now have solar — but the application process adds 8-12 weeks and the planners may require specific panel types or positions that do not affect the character of the building.
In conservation areas, panels on a rear roof slope that are not visible from a public highway are generally permitted development. Front-facing panels may need planning permission. Check with your local planning authority before proceeding.
New Build Properties
From the 2025 Future Homes Standard update, new build homes must produce significantly fewer carbon emissions than current standards. Solar panels are one of the most cost-effective ways for developers to meet these targets. If buying a new build, check whether solar is already included — and if not, whether the developer offers it as an option (often at a lower price than retrofitting later).