MCS De-certifications on Various Roof Mounting Products

The Importance of MCS Certification for Solar Roof Mounting Products

MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) certification is the gold standard for solar PV and battery storage systems in the UK. It ensures that products and installers meet rigorous quality, safety, and performance benchmarks. For roof mounting products, MCS certification is not just a mark of quality—it’s a legal and financial necessity. Without it, systems may not qualify for government incentives, and property owners risk invalidating warranties or insurance.

Recent years have seen a notable increase in MCS de-certifications for various roof mounting products. These de-certifications can stem from product design changes, failure to meet updated standards, or lapses in manufacturer compliance. For homeowners and commercial property managers, choosing MCS-certified mounting systems is essential for long-term reliability and eligibility for schemes like the Smart Export Guarantee. For installers such as Atlantic Renewables, staying ahead of MCS changes protects both reputation and client investment.

How MCS De-certifications Affect Solar PV Installations in the UK

When a roof mounting product loses its MCS certification, the consequences ripple through the entire solar installation process. Installers can no longer use the product in new MCS-accredited projects, and existing installations may face scrutiny if issues arise. This can lead to costly retrofits, legal disputes, or loss of export tariff eligibility for customers.

According to MCS, as of 2024, over 30% of de-certifications involved mounting systems that failed to adapt to evolving wind and weather resistance criteria (MCS Standards). For Atlantic Renewables and other reputable installers, this means regular reviews of product listings and proactive communication with manufacturers are vital. Clients should always request written proof of current MCS status before proceeding with any installation.

What Are the Most Common Reasons for MCS De-certification?

Several factors can trigger the de-certification of roof mounting products:

• Non-compliance with Updated Standards: MCS regularly updates its technical requirements, especially as building codes and environmental conditions evolve.
• Manufacturing Changes: Alterations in materials, design, or production processes can inadvertently breach certification criteria.
• Quality Control Failures: Inadequate testing or poor batch quality can result in safety or durability risks.
• Documentation Issues: Missing or incorrect paperwork during audits can also lead to suspension or removal from the MCS product list.

A 2023 industry survey found that 42% of de-certifications were due to design changes not being re-tested under the latest MCS guidelines. This highlights the importance of robust manufacturer transparency and installer vigilance.

What Installers Should Do When a Product Is De-certified

If an installer discovers that a previously approved roof mounting product has lost its MCS certification, several steps are essential:

• Cease Use in New Projects: Immediately stop specifying or installing the affected product in MCS-accredited systems.
• Notify Clients: Inform customers about the situation, especially if their installation is in progress or recently completed.
• Seek Alternatives: Source MCS-certified alternatives that meet the same structural and aesthetic requirements.
• Document Actions: Keep detailed records of communications and decisions to protect against future liability.

Atlantic Renewables' team of experts routinely audits all products in use, ensuring only certified options are offered to clients. If you’re concerned about your current system, contact our engineers for a compliance review.

How Homeowners Can Check the Certification Status of Roof Mounting Products

For homeowners, verifying the MCS status of roof mounting products is straightforward but crucial. The official MCS website maintains a searchable database of certified products. Before installation, request the exact product name and model from your installer and cross-check it against the database.

If your system was installed before a de-certification, you are generally not required to take immediate action unless safety concerns are raised. However, for peace of mind and insurance purposes, periodic checks are wise. Atlantic Renewables provides free guidance on MCS compliance for all past and prospective clients.

The Impact of De-certification on Solar Incentives and Insurance

MCS certification is often a prerequisite for accessing financial incentives such as the Smart Export Guarantee and for securing comprehensive home insurance coverage. If a roof mounting product is de-certified, systems using it may become ineligible for these benefits. According to Ofgem, over 95% of solar PV installations claiming export payments in 2023 were MCS-accredited. Loss of certification can also complicate claims in the event of roof or system damage.

For property owners, this underscores the value of working with accredited installers like Atlantic Renewables, who guarantee the use of compliant products and provide ongoing support in the event of regulatory changes.

What the Future Holds for MCS Certification and Roof Mounting Products

The solar industry is rapidly evolving, with mounting systems facing greater scrutiny due to climate change, building integration, and fire safety concerns. MCS is expected to tighten requirements further in the coming years, particularly around wind uplift, waterproofing, and compatibility with new roofing materials.

Manufacturers and installers must remain agile, investing in R&D and staff training to stay compliant. For customers, this means the safest route is to partner with established, transparent companies like Atlantic Renewables, who are committed to ongoing compliance and customer protection.

Get in Touch

If you’re planning a solar PV installation or have concerns about the certification status of your existing roof mounting system, reach out to Atlantic Renewables today. Our team of experts is ready to provide a full compliance review, recommend certified alternatives, or answer any questions about MCS de-certifications. Call us on 0161 207 4044 and ensure your solar investment is secure, compliant, and future-proofed.