1. Bring recent electricity bills
A bill is the first useful picture of how much electricity the property uses. Timing matters too: daytime use, evening use, pool pumps, heating, cooling and future EV charging all change what a sensible system looks like.
- Collect recent bills if you can
- Note when the home is usually occupied
- List future loads such as an EV, battery, pool or electric appliances
- Email a bill PDF or photo if that is easier than bringing paper to a visit
2. Be clear about the problem you want to solve
Some households mainly want grid-connect solar. Others want evening battery use, selected backup, monitoring or charging a vehicle at home. Those priorities can point to different designs—or a staged plan that does one step well first.
Useful starting question: what would make this project feel worthwhile for your household or business?
3. Look beyond the panels
Roof space, orientation and shade are the visible parts of the assessment. The switchboard, equipment locations, cable routes and future home energy plans can be just as important—and often get missed in a phone quote.
- Mention trees, neighbouring buildings or seasonal shade
- Think about practical locations for an inverter, battery or EV charger
- Raise any known switchboard or access concerns early
4. Ask what assumptions drive the recommendation
A useful quote should explain the proposed system, included work and the assumptions behind the design. If financial outcomes are discussed, the usage pattern, tariffs, export settings and any finance terms should be visible—not buried.
- What site details changed the design?
- How was the system size chosen?
- What is included in the proposed work?
- How would a future battery or EV change the plan?
5. Want a second opinion on another quote?
If you already have a quote, bring it along with a recent bill. We’ll explain the proposed design, inclusions and trade-offs in plain English.
6. Check reputation at the source
Adelaide SolarSafe is a family-owned and operated Adelaide business established in 2009. SolarQuotes records 4.9/5 from 129 SolarQuotes ratings, checked 13 July 2026.
7. Keep the first step simple
You don’t need a finished brief before making contact. A recent bill, your suburb and a rough idea of what you’re considering are enough. Send the bill by email (attach it in your email app) or call—there is no upload form on the website.