If you’re installing solar panels in Australia, compliance isn’t optional — it’s the foundation of your business.

The Clean Energy Regulator (CER) has been tightening enforcement. In recent years, installer accreditation reviews have increased significantly, and the penalties for non-compliance are getting steeper.

This checklist covers everything you need to have in order before, during, and after every solar installation job.

Before the Job

CER Accreditation

• ✅ Current CEC accreditation (check expiry date)
• ✅ Correct endorsement categories for the work being performed
• ✅ Professional indemnity insurance up to date
• ✅ Electrical licence valid in your state/territory

Design Compliance

• ✅ System design compliant with AS/NZS 5033 (Installation and safety requirements for PV arrays)
• ✅ Inverter listed on the CEC Approved Inverter List
• ✅ Panels listed on the CEC Approved Modules List
• ✅ String sizing calculations documented
• ✅ Roof structural assessment completed (if required)

Customer Documentation

• ✅ Written quote with system specifications
• ✅ Pre-installation checklist signed by customer
• ✅ Grid connection application submitted to DNSP

During Installation

Electrical Standards

• ✅ All wiring compliant with AS/NZS 3000 (Wiring Rules)
• ✅ DC isolator installed and accessible (AS/NZS 5033)
• ✅ AC isolator installed at switchboard
• ✅ Earthing and bonding per manufacturer specifications
• ✅ Cable management — UV-rated conduit for exposed DC cabling

Safety

• ✅ Working at heights procedures followed
• ✅ Electrical safety procedures documented
• ✅ Site-specific risk assessment completed
• ✅ PPE requirements met

Documentation During Install

• ✅ Progress photos of key stages (roof layout, wiring, isolators, switchboard)
• ✅ Serial numbers recorded for all panels and inverters
• ✅ Any variations from design documented and approved

After Installation

Testing & Commissioning

• ✅ Insulation resistance testing completed
• ✅ Earth continuity testing completed
• ✅ Polarity verification
• ✅ Functional testing of isolators and safety switches
• ✅ System performance verification

Paperwork

• ✅ Certificate of Electrical Safety (CES) lodged
• ✅ CEC installation details submitted within required timeframe
• ✅ STC assignment form completed and signed by customer
• ✅ Grid connection confirmation received
• ✅ Customer handover pack provided (system manual, warranty info, maintenance guide)

STC (Small-scale Technology Certificate) Documentation

• ✅ System details match STC claim exactly
• ✅ Installation date recorded accurately
• ✅ Installer accreditation number on all documents
• ✅ Customer declaration form signed
• ✅ Photos stored as evidence (recommended minimum: roof layout, switchboard, isolators, inverter label)

The Bottom Line

Compliance isn’t just about avoiding penalties — it’s about building a reputation that generates referrals and repeat business.

The installers who treat compliance as a feature (not a burden) are the ones winning the best contracts and commanding premium prices.

Bookmark this checklist. Use it on every job. Update it when standards change.

We’ll keep this article updated as CER requirements and AS/NZS standards evolve. Follow us on Instagram for the latest compliance updates.

---

Have a compliance question we haven’t covered? Get in touch — we’re building the resource hub solar installers actually need.