HIES | Consumer Protection for Renewable Energy Installations in Chorley

Business Details

Trusted Consumer Protection for Renewable Energy Installations

HIES is a leading consumer protection organisation dedicated to safeguarding homeowners during renewable energy and energy efficiency installations. Our rigorous accreditation process ensures all member installers meet strict quality standards, providing consumers with confidence in their chosen contractors. We offer comprehensive financial protection through deposit and stage-payment insurance covering up to 5,000, alongside insurance-backed guarantees ranging from 2-10 years. Our Alternative Dispute Resolution service and free access to independent ombudsman services ensure fair resolution of any conflicts.

With Chartered Trading Standards Institute approval and ISO 9001 certification, we maintain industry-leading standards while partnering with government schemes like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme and ECO4. Our collaboration with George Clarke as Brand Ambassador enhances consumer awareness, while our partnership with JUST ONE Tree demonstrates environmental commitment through tree planting for completed installations.

Services

Solar PV Installations Heat Pump Systems Battery Storage Solutions Energy Efficiency Measures Government Scheme Compliance

Highlights and features

We provide ISO 9001-certified quality assurance processes
Our deposit protection covers up to 5,000 per installation
Insurance-backed guarantees range from 2-10 years duration
Free Alternative Dispute Resolution and ombudsman services
Official partnership with George Clarke as Brand Ambassador

Associations and certifications

ISO 9001
Chartered Trading Standards Institute

Website

Update Listing

Services

Installer Accreditation

Our rigorous accreditation process ensures installers meet strict technical and business practice standards. We verify technical competence, financial stability, and compliance with industry regulations. Accredited members gain access to scheme benefits while consumers receive assurance of quality workmanship and customer service standards.

Deposit Protection

We provide deposit protection covering up to 25% of contract value (max 5,000) for 120 days. This insurance-backed protection safeguards consumer payments during installation projects. Coverage activates upon written confirmation from our system, ensuring financial security throughout the project lifecycle.

Insurance Guarantees

Our insurance-backed guarantees protect consumers if installers cease trading. Coverage durations range from 2-10 years depending on installation type. Guarantees activate when installers register completion dates through our online portal, providing long-term assurance for renewable energy systems.

Dispute Resolution

Our Alternative Dispute Resolution service offers free mediation between consumers and installers. When resolution proves difficult, we provide access to independent ombudsman services. This structured process ensures fair outcomes while maintaining industry standards and contractual obligations.

Scheme Compliance

We help installers meet regulatory requirements through Primary Authority partnerships and Assignment of Rights frameworks. Our compliance support includes technical standards, consumer code adherence, and government scheme participation. This ensures members maintain industry-leading operational standards while accessing scheme benefits.

People

George Clarke

Brand Ambassador

TV architect and presenter working with HIES to enhance consumer protection standards in renewable energy installations. Brings industry expertise and public trust to promote quality assurance initiatives.

Questions

What protection does HIES offer for renewable installations?

HIES provides installer accreditation, deposit protection up to £5,000, insurance-backed guarantees (2-10 years), and free dispute resolution services for renewable energy projects.

How do I verify an installer's HIES membership?

Use our online installer search tool to confirm accreditation status, covered products, and current scheme compliance information for registered members.

What happens if my installer goes out of business?

Your insurance-backed guarantee activates, providing coverage for up to 10 years depending on installation type through our claims process.

Does HIES cover government grant-compliant installations?

Yes, we support installations under Boiler Upgrade Scheme, ECO4, and other government initiatives with compliance verification and documentation support.

How does the dispute resolution process work?

Initial mediation through HIES team, escalating to independent ombudsman access if required, with clear procedures documented on our website.

What renewable technologies does HIES cover?

We cover solar PV, heat pumps, micro-CHP boilers, battery storage, biomass systems, and various energy efficiency measures across residential properties.

Videos

Reviews (7)

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David

Jan 27, 2022 Report

After contacting Hiess about the prospects of installing panels and a battery I had an immediate response from Faisal and then a 30 minute call to provide advice. Faisal was excellent, explaining their role and giving unbiased guidance on our options. It was very useful to receive such a balanced set of information and to be aware of our protection if choosing a contractor from their accreditation scheme.

Howard Walker

Nov 10, 2021 Report

My original installer was not replying to emails or anything else, so I eventually rang HIES, who look after warranty problems. Had 2 visits from one of their installers, Greener Living and everything is now up and running.
Seems my installer had gone out of business. I would not have a heating system if it were not for HEIS. Thanks especially for the reception form Catherine Wolfenden who went straight to the heart of the matter,and sorted everything out for me
Howard Walker

Paul Wright

Jun 20, 2021 Report

I struggled initially to get an acceptable response from my solar energy installer. As a last resort I contacted HIES whose response was very quick. They clearly explained my options and mediated between myself and the installers and achieved an acceptable conclusion.

Helena Starling

Jan 03, 2021 Report

Absolutely fab service and advice when being sent from pillar to post by energy companies - I'd recently bought a house with existing solar panels but had no documentation or any idea of where to start about registration and feed-in tariffs until I spoke to Tracey. She talked me through what to do and who to speak to, and was happy for me to call a second time for next steps. Would definitely recommend and would most likely still be stressing without Tracey's help!

Jamie Gingell

Sep 08, 2020 Report

I had a solar panel system installed in 2015 by zanussi solar, no issues and had been working fine until a couple of weeks ago when the inverter developed a fault. After multiple attempts to get hold of zanussi to sort it under the existing 20 year warranty ( I won't bore you with the saga that is sub contracting and the existing "zanussi solar" no longer being the previous company working as "zanussi solar"), I got in contact with HIES. I cannot fault the engagement and communication I had with all 3 people I spoke to at HIES (Kim, Angela and Catherine). Down to earth, willing to listen to an

John Watterson

Aug 31, 2020 Report

We purchased 9 solar panels from a local company but it soon became apparent that the download was nowhere near what had been stated in the contract. After a visit the firm put in three optimisers for three panels that were heavily shaded by our house despite our reservations that they would not make any significant difference. They didn't! There then ensued a long series of emails culminating in us threatening legal action for mis -selling. Even this did not result in any action so we contacted HIES for Alternative Dispute Resolution. I had sent in pictures, copies of every email and statistics

Brendan Morgan

Aug 17, 2020 Report

Poor experience with a so-called consumer protection organisation. A HIES accredited supplier started installation of our air source heat pump but never finished. After months without heat and hot water, we had to get another supplier to finish the installation at an extra cost to us. HIES appointed an ombudsman who ruled in our favor but the supplier have ignored all communication. So we are many thousands out of pocket. Where's the consumer protection here then???