How to Choose a Solar Installer (A Homeowner's Checklist)

Licensing, insurance, NABCEP, local experience

Before hiring an installer, verify:

• Licensing: Verify contractor's license in your state. Check for complaints or violations with your state licensing board.
• Insurance: Verify general liability and workers' compensation insurance. Ask for proof of insurance.
• NABCEP certification: North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners certification indicates training and expertise. Not required but preferred.
• Local experience: Ask for recent installs in your area. Local installers understand utility policies and permitting requirements.
• BBB rating: Check Better Business Bureau rating and complaint history.

Use the NABCEP locator to find certified installers in your area. Verify licensing and insurance before signing a contract.

Equipment line-items and warranties (workmanship, roof, performance)

Review equipment specifications and warranties:

• Equipment line-items: Proposal should list panel brand/model, inverter type, mounting hardware, and all components with specifications.
• Workmanship warranty: Typically 1–10 years. Covers installation defects and roof penetration leaks.
• Roof warranty: Covers roof damage from installation. Some installers offer extended roof warranties.
• Performance warranty: Panel manufacturer guarantees minimum output (typically 80–90% after 25 years).
• Product warranty: Panel and inverter manufacturer warranties (typically 10–12 years for panels, 10–15 years for inverters).

Compare equipment specifications and warranties across bids. Higher-quality equipment may cost more but offer better warranties and performance.

Monitoring/app, service timelines, roof work coordination

Ask about monitoring, service, and coordination:

• Monitoring app: Most systems include monitoring to track production and consumption. Check what's included and if there are subscription fees.
• Service timelines: How quickly will installer respond to issues? What's included in warranty service?
• Roof work coordination: If you need roof repairs or replacement, coordinate with installer. Some installers offer roof work or partner with roofers.
• Maintenance: What maintenance is required? Who handles warranty claims and repairs?

Ask installers about their service process and response times. Check online reviews for service quality and responsiveness.

Contract terms: change orders, delays, cancellation

Review contract terms carefully:

• Change orders: How are changes handled? Are there fees for changes after contract signing?
• Delays: What happens if installation is delayed? Are there penalties for installer delays?
• Cancellation: What's the cancellation policy? Are there fees for canceling after signing?
• Payment schedule: When are payments due? Avoid paying full amount upfront.
• Production guarantee: Does installer guarantee minimum production? What happens if system underperforms?

Read all contract terms before signing. Don't sign if terms are unclear or unfavorable. Consult an attorney if needed.

Red flags and how to compare bids

Red flags to avoid:

• Pressure to sign immediately: Legitimate installers give you time to review and compare bids.
• Unrealistic promises: Promises of specific savings or production without site assessment.
• Vague proposals: Proposals without equipment specifications, warranties, or production estimates.
• No local references: Installers without recent installs in your area or references.
• Unlicensed or uninsured: Installers without proper licensing or insurance.
• High-pressure sales: Aggressive sales tactics or limited-time offers.

How to compare bids: Get at least 2–3 quotes. Compare total system cost, equipment specifications, warranties, production estimates, and contract terms. Don't choose based solely on price; consider quality, warranties, and service.

FAQ