How to Hire a Solar Panel Company: Everything You Need to Know

The global solar power market size was valued at USD 167.83 billion in 2021 and is commonly projected to grow from USD 234.86 billion in 2022 to USD 373.84 billion by 2029. That's an increase of about 720 megawatts of solar production.

Solar technology is one of the most influential and sought-after forms of renewable energy that homeowners and business owners alike clamor to use. But getting started, understanding what to look for, and hiring a solar panel company can be overwhelming.

As more homes switch to solar, more companies are available. It can make it challenging to decide which solar panel company to use.

Keep reading to learn how to hire a solar panel company. Learn about the questions to ask before getting quotes.

Research the Company

Researching the company is one of the most critical steps in hiring and looking for options for solar companies. As a consumer, it is important to ask detailed questions. It is essential to review the company's credentials.

Go to this source for a detailed guide on hiring a solar panel company. Make sure the company has solar installation experience and is qualified. Research their track record in customer service and ask for references.

Solar panel companies should be certified to provide quality materials and installation. Request references and review the company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating.

Ask for a thorough breakdown of the deliverables, services, and installation price. They should stand behind their work with a warranty.

A reputable company should provide customer service for the life of the system. Also, inquire about incentives or credits to use towards the cost of the system.

Finally, learn about the company's customer service reputation.

Ask for References

When considering hiring a solar panel company, it is wise to ask for references. It is a great way to get an honest overview of the company's performance for past solar customers.

Ask for references specific to the project type you want to complete. Ask pointed-out questions about the work's quality and the process's smoothness.

References can help determine if a particular company is reliable and trustworthy. Ask for the contact information of previous customers the company has worked with.

It helps you see the company's work quality and customer service. Reading online reviews from past customers can be helpful as well.

It will provide a deeper insight into the company's professionalism and detail. It will also give you a sense of the company's energy efficiency and the final results of its installation.

Make Sure the Company Is Licensed and Insured

When considering hiring a solar panel company, it is essential to ensure the company is licensed and insured. Proper licensing and insurance ensure the correct permits have been properly acquired and that the contractor has the required coverage in the event of an accident or injury.

Licensed solar panel installers should have their certifications on display. They should provide legal documents. It proves they are legally trained and authorized to install solar panels.

Insurance is just as important. Companies should be wholly insured for workers' compensation and property damage. They should include general liability for any misrepresentation or negligence on the job.

Check with the insurer to ensure the policy is current before any work is usually done. Ask for copies of the certifications and insurance certificates. Make sure you follow up with a call to the insurer to check the validity of the documents.

Choose a Company That Gives the Best Value for Money

When hiring a solar panel company, ensuring you get the best value for money is essential. One way to do this is to research the various options available. It includes the different prices and solar panel brands.

Consider the quality of service each company can provide. Ensure that the company offers efficient installation and maintenance services if any problems arise. Determine the expected long-term costs.

Check whether the solar panels chosen will meet your energy needs. Please speak to the team to understand how they will undertake the installation and maintenance. Also, ask them about any extra costs that may affect the overall price.

Remember that quality should be our top priority. An incompetent company can be more expensive in the long run. It can be due to poor solar installation-- request proposals after narrowing down your choice of companies.

Then comparing solar installation costs and contrasting the offers in price, equipment, warranties, and services should also be considered.

Questions to Ask Your Solar Panel Installer

When looking to hire a solar panel company, it is essential to ask the right questions to determine if they are the right fit for your project. Ask questions about your potential solar panel installer, such as:

Do You Handle All Documentation and Necessary Paperwork?

Most solar panel companies will be able to handle all the necessary paperwork. However, this may be for an additional fee.

Get this information before signing a contract. It is essential to avoid getting stuck with more fees or paperwork that was not discussed.

The installation and paperwork process can vary from state to state. Discuss with the company what paperwork will be required and how it will be properly handled.

Ask the company to provide references from previous clients. It is to ensure that the paperwork is handled correctly and efficiently.

Asking for references could provide a good indication as to whether the company can handle all required paperwork by your area's regulations.

Who Secures Permits?

The solar panel company is responsible for securing permits to install solar panels. Before agreeing to a contract, ensure the company provides a timeline for all necessary permits.

The company should also provide the requirements document with the local government's office and the cost. Research the credibility and qualifications of the solar panel company.

The solar panel company should provide a dedicated customer service department. Ensure they adhere to all necessary regulations to give you peace of mind.

Do You Subcontract Work?

Utilizing subcontractors can be a savvy business practice for a solar energy company. It may even save you money.

However, make sure the subcontractors are certified. It is to offer the services you require for installation and that you are confident in the subcontractor's capabilities.

Before signing any contracts, ask many questions about how the solar panel company operates. Learn how often they call upon subcontractors to assist.

Have You Worked With My Local Utility Company?

When hiring a solar panel company, it is essential to determine if they have knowledge of the installation process and work with your local utility company. Ask the company if they have ever completed installations or repairs with your local provider.

It will give you an indication of the quality of their work. Additionally, you should ask for references or former clients and contact them to get feedback about the company's performance.

Lastly, make sure the company carries liability and workman's compensation insurance. It is essential to protect you against any potential issues.

Carefully Review the Contract

When hiring a solar panel company, it is essential to review the contract carefully. Before signing a deal, read the agreement in detail.

Check for potential clauses that might be unfavorable to you. Make sure all of the timings and service details are correctly listed.

Negotiate with the solar panel company to ensure you get the best deal. Feel free to ask questions or request changes in the contract if something needs to be corrected.

You also have the right to hire a lawyer to review the contract and ensure everything is in your best interests. Finally, check for any environmental or local laws that could impact the service you're receiving.

Inquire About the Company's Customer Service Policies

When considering hiring a solar panel company, it's essential to inquire about its customer service policies. One of the most important parts of hiring a solar panel company is making sure that you understand customer service policies.

Do They Have a Customer Service Representative That Can Answer Questions Promptly and Professionally?

A great way to assess their customer service is by calling their office. It is helpful to speak to a representative.

Gauge the response time and the level of customer support you received. Additionally, look at the company's website and read customer reviews.

Testimonials and customer reviews are excellent ways to understand the solar panel company's customer service. Don't hesitate to ask questions throughout the hiring process.

Are Their Customer Service Policies Stated Clearly?

You can usually find this information on the company's website. Take the time to read through their policies closely.

It will give you a better understanding of what to expect when you need assistance. The customer service policies will discuss the type of support they provide.

It will also discuss the time frame they offer it and any possible fees involved. Additionally, the policies should outline specific procedures for filing complaints and resolving conflicts. 

Do They Provide a Money-Back Guarantee for Customer Satisfaction?

Ask the solar panel company about any money-back guarantees they may offer. Having a money-back guarantee reassures customers to provide satisfaction with their services.

Look for companies that will honor their customer service commitments. Organizations with a long track record of excellent customer service provide a better customer experience.

Ask questions such as how long the company has been in business. Be sure to understand their money-back guarantee and whether they provide additional services.

What About Warranties and Guarantees for the Work That They Will Provide?

Companies should offer warranties that cover all solar panel materials, installation, and maintenance. Look for a solar panel company that provides a minimum 25-year performance warranty.

It guarantees your solar panels remain operational and efficient. The company should also provide an installation warranty covering faulty artistry or materials.

They should guarantee their work and provide a service warranty on all labor, maintenance, and repairs. Be sure to ask the solar panel company for specifications on their promises and guarantees. 

Some manufacturers can even provide extended warranties based on their products and services.

Are They Trained and Certified to Install Solar Panels?

It is an important question when considering a solar panel installation company. Any reputable company should have its staff trained and certified.

Ask the company to provide proof of training and certification. It includes a certificate or other paperwork.

Check with the Better Business Bureau or other organizations for their excellent reputation. Make sure to search for any complaints against the company.

Interview the technicians to understand the job's complexity and verify their expertise. Lastly, compare the company's quotes against the industry standards.

Hire a Solar Panel Company Base on Your Needs

Hiring a solar panel company is a great way to save money and become more environmentally friendly. 

Make sure to research a few different solar panel companies to compare their offerings, both in terms of products and services. With the proper research and knowledge, you can hire a solar panel company that fits your needs.

Check references and licenses. It is also essential to ask questions and compare prices to make sure you make the right decision. 

Ultimately, finding the right solar panel company to suit your needs can help you to save money, take advantage of renewable energy and make a greener choice.

So, what are you waiting for? Act now and start your renewable energy journey!

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