A technical site survey is an on-site visit by a qualified surveyor who inspects the incoming supply, existing installation and the space where the new system will go. The output is a report with photographs, measurements and technical observations.
When it's worth booking one
- You can't get the customer to send you accurate information. A survey solves that in one visit.
- The supply configuration is unusual. Three-phase / single-phase mismatches, historic wiring, or commercial supplies with unclear cut-outs.
- The site is being scoped for solar, battery, EV and/or heat pump together. A single survey can cover all technologies.
- You want a clean, DNO-ready pack. Cut-out photos, MPAN, wiring diagram, load information — all in one report.
- The project is commercial and the customer expects a professional survey document as part of the proposal.
When it's not necessary
- Standard domestic G98 on a straightforward supply where you've already visited or have the required photos.
- Repeat installer who knows the site type well.
What the surveyor does on site
- Inspects the incoming cut-out, meter and tails.
- Photographs the fuse rating and supply arrangement.
- Measures the space for the proposed equipment (inverter, battery, consumer unit).
- Notes any existing generation or heat pumps.
- Confirms the MPAN and cross-checks it against the physical supply.
Turnaround
A report is usually returned within a few working days of the survey, depending on scheduling. You can then use it directly to submit the DNO application.