Before you buy a home battery, get these answers in writing.

A battery can be compatible and still disappoint if the quoted generation does not expose the controls you expect. Use this checklist before accepting the quote.

1. Exact hardware

Ask for the exact inverter and battery model/part number, not only the brand or product family.

2. Show me the homeowner controls

Ask the installer to demonstrate the homeowner account that will remain yours after commissioning. Confirm whether you can schedule charging and discharging yourself.

3. Can it grid-charge when I choose?

If you want cheap overnight charging, ask whether the exact model supports user-accessible grid charging and whether your tariff/VPP arrangement imposes any restrictions.

4. Can I set reserve or target SOC?

Confirm whether backup reserve, minimum SOC and charge targets are homeowner-adjustable.

5. Fixed schedules or automation?

Decide whether you want deterministic time blocks, automated tariff optimisation, or both. They are not the same feature.

6. Who can override my schedule?

Ask whether a VPP, retailer, EMS or installer-configured control can override local app settings.

7. What happens in a blackout?

Battery storage compatibility does not prove backup capability. Ask which circuits are backed up, whether existing PV continues to operate, and what reserve is maintained.

8. What does the controller measure?

Ask whether existing solar, controlled loads and whole-site import/export are visible to the battery controller. If CT/meter architecture is unclear, have the installer explain it rather than changing commissioning settings yourself.