Entering into a solar contract is a big financial decision, one that requires careful thought. You’ll be living with your home PV installation choices for a long time, and you don’t want to get burned by a bad deal.
To make sure you get exactly what you want at the right price, check out the solar contract tips below before you sign on the dotted line.
Industry experts recommend getting estimates from at least two professional photovoltaic contractors before hiring one. Consulting with different home PV installers is the best way to make sure you get a fair price for a high-quality solar power system that meets your needs.
For an apples-to-apples comparison of your photovoltaic system quotes, ask each contractor for the price per watt based upon the gross PV installation costs.
Price isn’t everything when it comes to a solar contract — the quality of the home PV components used is just as important.
When you get your estimates, ask the professional photovoltaic contractors for details on the equipment they plan to install. Look for high-quality, proven solar components. Lesser-known brands may be cheaper, but you may pay the price later when those products don’t live up to your expectations.
While home PV components are designed to last, you may have maintenance and operational costs. Every contractor should be willing to provide you with cost projections, as they can impact your bottom line.
Plus, not all professional photovoltaic contractors offer the same warranty coverage. Parts, labor and manufacturer warranties can vary. Before signing a solar contract, you need to have a clear understanding of your coverage.
Are the photovoltaic contractors who provide your estimates the ones who will do your home PV installation? Or do they outsource the work?
You won’t know unless you ask — and the distinction is important. Professional contractors are trained and experienced to complete solar projects. And they’re licensed and certified, so you can trust their work quality. When the photovoltaic installation is outsourced, you have none of those assurances.
High-pressure sales tactics are common in the solar industry — many photovoltaic installers want homeowners to make on-the-spot decisions.
Regardless of how good an offer seems, don’t let a professional contractor push you into signing a solar contract before you’re ready. Instead, tell them you need time to consider all of your home PV installation offers.
Perhaps most important, never believe emails or verbal promises are part of your legally binding solar contract.
Everything that’s included should be clearly written into your contract. Make sure all the terms and conditions are spelled out before you sign. If it isn’t in the solar contract, it isn’t part of the photovoltaic installation deal.
Intermountain Wind & Solar, the region’s leading commercial and home PV installation professionals, provides high-quality service and favorable warranty coverage at an affordable price. Plus, we never outsource any of our work. For a complimentary, hassle-free solar contract consultation, contact us today.
"All of the photos on this website are of real projects that Intermountain Wind & Solar has designed and installed.
We are proud to show off and stand behind our work."
