Installing a solar panel system is a significant investment, one that can yield substantial returns over time. However, the success of your solar endeavor hinges on choosing the right installation company. The industry is booming, and while many reputable companies exist, there are also those who may cut corners or lack the necessary expertise.
Before you sign on the dotted line, it’s crucial to conduct your due diligence. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the essential steps to vet a solar company, why they’re important and what you need to do to check them off your list.
The first and most fundamental step is to confirm that the solar company is properly licensed. In addition to a general business license, solar installation requires industry-specific licenses which vary by state and municipality. While some states only require an electrical license to install solar, there are others with much more extensive requirements, such as specialized exams, minimum experience and clean background checks. Solar electric work performed by unqualified individuals can be dangerous and lead to costly repairs, so don’t just take their word for it; look for official records.
If your situation calls for it, your proposal may require additional services to completely offset your utility bill or optimize system performance. The most common are roof replacement to ensure a secure and long-lasting foundation and tree removal to reduce shading or allow for more panels. If the representative provides a recommendation, you would be wise to confirm their licensing as well.
Why This Matters: Licensing provides assurance that the company meets industry standards and legal requirements, indicating professional commitment and accountability.
Action Overview: Check with your local building department or state licensing board to verify the company’s credentials.
Accidents happen, and ensuring a solar company has adequate insurance and bonding is essential to protect your investment, your home and yourself.
Why This Matters: Insurance and bonding offer financial security and peace of mind. They protect you from unexpected costs and liabilities.
Action Overview: Ask for proof of insurance and bonding and verify their validity with the issuing companies.
Experience matters in the solar industry. A company with a proven history of success is more likely to deliver a successful installation as well as ongoing service and support.
Why This Matters: Experience translates to efficiency, problem-solving skills, and a deeper understanding of the intricacies of solar installations.
Action Overview: Spend some time researching the company online to find out what current and previous customers think of them.
The quality of the solar panels, inverters, and other components directly impacts the system’s performance and longevity.
Research the manufacturers of the panels and equipment they use. Look for reputable brands with proven product performance and strong warranties.
Though the formula is more complex from an operational standpoint, solar panel evaluation boils down to finding the most effective balance between materials, efficiency, degradation rate, compatibility and warranty. From a design perspective, size and aesthetics factor in as well.
Inverters are the brain of a solar power system. There are two types — string inverters and microinverters. In short, microinverters allow each panel to function on its own and as part of the whole, which positively impacts system performance, monitoring and serviceability. Ensure they use high-quality microinverters from well-known manufacturers.
Make sure at least one solar backup battery or generator is included with your system and that it has enough storage capacity to keep the lights on if your utility provider experiences an outage.
Confirm EV chargers match your vehicle’s charging capacity, offer reliable performance, and include smart features that align with your needs.
Solar racking and mounting is used to secure the panels to your roof or on your grounds. Choose durable mounts that sit on top of shingles instead of putting holes in your roof.
Carefully review the warranties on all components and the installation workmanship. Understand what is covered, at what cost, and for how long.
Why This Matters: High-quality equipment ensures optimal performance, durability, and a longer lifespan for your solar system.
Action Overview: Look over warranties and product spec sheets to make sure they meet your long-term needs and expectations.
Don’t hesitate to ask detailed questions to clarify any concerns you may have. At the end of the day, it’s your home and investment on the line, so nothing should be off limits.
Why This Matters: Asking questions demonstrates your due diligence and helps you assess the company’s knowledge, professionalism, and responsiveness.
Action Overview: Start with the questions above and take notes during your appointment to be sure all of your questions have been addressed adequately.
You don’t know what you don’t know. Estimates vary by industry, so unless you sell solar yourself it can be difficult to navigate this part of the process.
Why This Matters: Knowing what to look for can help you identify the best value for your investment and recognize when something is too good to be true.
Action Overview: Review and compare proposals with the same scope of work to weed out questionable contractors and find the best value.
The solar contract, often referred to as the installation agreement, is a legally binding document that outlines the terms and conditions of the agreement between you and your chosen installer.
Ensure the contract clearly defines the scope of work, including the system size, projected annual production, type and number of panels and inverters, and other relevant information.
The contract should include a realistic project timeline, including installation and interconnection.
The payment schedule should be clearly outlined, with payments tied to specific milestones or financing agreement.
The contract should detail the terms of manufacturer’s warranties on all components and installation workmanship. These may be issued by equipment manufacturers, the solar company or a third-party.
The contract should specify who is responsible for obtaining permits and scheduling inspections.
Understand the process for making changes to the project or cancelling the contract, as well as any associated fees and milestones.
Why This Matters: A clear, comprehensive contract protects your interests and ensures a clear understanding of the project terms.
Action Overview: Know what to look for and give yourself ample time to read the fine print before you sign on the dotted line.
Like any relationship, choosing a solar company is a personal decision. These are some questions you may consider when evaluating a company’s character:
Why This Matters: A good company will want you to feel comfortable with your decision and will not pressure you to move forward if you’re not ready yet. Better to have the right company come back another day than get stuck with a bad one.
Action Overview: If you have a bad feeling about a solar company, don’t sign that contract. Trust your instincts and choose a company that you feel comfortable with.
Investing in solar energy is a significant step towards a sustainable future and lower energy costs. By following these steps and conducting thorough due diligence, you will be well equipped to choose a reputable and experienced solar installation company that will deliver a high-quality system and a positive customer experience. Remember, the key is to be informed, ask questions, and take your time to make the right decision. Your solar journey begins with careful preparation and choosing the right solar company to partner with.
Send us your info and we’ll contact you to schedule an appointment with your dedicated solar consultant.
