How to Choose a Solar Installer

How to Choose a Solar Installer

Your solar installer is arguably more important than the panels they install. A quality installation maximizes your system's performance and longevity, while a poor one can lead to roof leaks, electrical issues, and underperformance. Here's how to find the right installer.

Step 1: Get Multiple Quotes (At Least 3)

Never accept the first quote. Solar pricing varies 20-30% between installers for identical equipment. Getting 3+ quotes gives you:

A realistic price range for your area

Leverage for negotiation

Different equipment and financing options to compare

Step 2: Verify Credentials

Must-have credentials:

State electrical contractor license

General liability insurance ($1M+ coverage)

Workers' compensation insurance

Business license in your city/county

Nice-to-have:

NABCEP certification (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners)

Manufacturer certifications (Tesla Certified Installer, SunPower Authorized Dealer)

BBB accreditation

Step 3: Check Reviews and References

Google Reviews: Look for 4.5+ stars with 50+ reviews

Yelp: Check for patterns in complaints

SolarReviews.com: Industry-specific review platform

BBB: Check complaint history, not just rating

Ask for references: Call 2-3 recent customers

Red flags in reviews:

Complaints about communication or ghosting

Roof leaks after installation

System underperformance

Difficulty getting warranty service

High-pressure sales tactics

Step 4: Compare Quotes Carefully

What a good quote includes:

Itemized equipment list (panel model, inverter brand, mounting hardware)

System size in kW and estimated annual production in kWh

Total cost before and after incentives

Financing terms (if applicable)

Detailed warranty information

Installation timeline

Permitting and interconnection handling

What to compare:

Cost per watt (total cost ÷ system size in watts)

Equipment quality — are they using name-brand components?

Warranty terms — 25-year workmanship warranty is gold standard

Estimated production — should be realistic for your location

Financing APR — if not paying cash

Step 5: Ask the Right Questions

How many installations have you completed?

Do you use subcontractors or in-house crews?

Who handles permitting and utility interconnection?

What is your workmanship warranty?

What happens if my roof leaks at a mounting point?

How do you handle warranty claims?

Can I see your NABCEP certification?

What monitoring system is included?

When can you start and finish?

What's your change order policy?

Step 6: Avoid These Red Flags

"Limited time offer" pressure — Legitimate installers don't use high-pressure tactics

Door-to-door sales with same-day signing — Always take time to compare

Requiring full payment upfront — Standard is a deposit (10-20%) then payment at milestones

No physical office or website — Fly-by-night operators

Significantly below-market pricing — May cut corners on equipment or installation quality

Won't provide written proposal — Everything should be in writing

Step 7: Understand the Contract

Before signing, ensure the contract covers:

Exact equipment specifications

Total price and payment schedule

Estimated completion date

Warranty terms (product, performance, workmanship)

What happens if they go out of business (warranty insurance)

Cancellation policy and cooling-off period

Performance guarantee (if offered)

Local vs. National Installers

National companies (SunPower, Tesla, Sunrun):

Pros: Financial stability, standardized processes, brand recognition

Cons: Higher prices, less personalized service, more sales-driven

Local installers:

Pros: Lower prices (10-20%), personalized attention, community reputation

Cons: May have less financial backing, variable quality

Our recommendation: Get quotes from both and compare. Many homeowners find the best value with well-established local installers who have strong reviews and proper credentials.