More Americans or 4% of homes in the US are turning to solar power to help them power their homes, whether it be for personal use or for the benefit of their businesses. Wanting to save money and protect the environment is a desire shared by many people at the moment. However, many people find themselves making common mistakes with hiring solar contractors. It is critical to know what you’re doing. This is especially when you are looking at how to get solar installed in your home properly.
Here, we’re going to talk about some of these biggest mistakes and how to avoid them. Knowing where to start can be difficult. But by preparing yourself, you can help yourself save a lot of the stress.
Read on!
1. Not Researching the Contractor
Not researching the contractor is especially true when it comes to potentially large investments like solar panel installation. If a company appears to be reputable and has an extremely low quote, it’s important to take some time to research the contractor further. Look for customer reviews and feedback from other customers, as well as certifications and qualifications.
It is also important to check every detail. Taking the time to research the contractor can help ensure that the investment is going to a trustworthy source and that the promised results will be delivered. This is one mistake that can easily be avoided with a little effort and research.
2. Focusing Solely on Price
When hiring solar contractors, one of the most common mistakes is focusing solely on price. Companies may be looking for the lowest estimates, but may unintentionally be overpaying and leaving themselves vulnerable to contractors who are cutting corners.
To avoid this common mistake, companies should guide their decision-making process with research and reviews. Companies should make sure to look into the company’s background and ask for detailed quotes and seek references from prior customers.
Once each company has been evaluated, then and only then should the price be considered. Companies should also make sure to weigh the quality of the installation and the product being used against the price.
Ultimately, the desired outcome should be a comprehensive and high-quality installation at the best value. Avoiding the mistake of focusing solely on price can help ensure that you are getting the best solar contractor for your needs and your budget.
3. Not Verifying Licensing and Insurance
Without the right licensing and insurance, it’s possible to hire an unqualified contractor, who might not understand the complexities of this type of work. Inadequate insurance can also lead to financial problems in the event of an accident or damage to property.
To avoid this mistake, always ask to see a copy of their license and insurance. Additionally, do research to verify they are legitimately licensed and insured. Look up their information on local contractor organization websites.
Some of the licensing and insurance you must look for include the following:
General Contractor License
Without a general contractor license, the contractor may not be legally able to perform the work they are contracted to do, which could lead to costly problems down the line. Furthermore, a general contractor license will help ensure that the contractor is properly insured, trained, and capable of doing the job right the first time.
Electrical Contractor License
To ensure you hire a reputable, professional solar contractor, always ask to view the electrical contractor license with your state’s electrical examining board. This will assess and verify if the contractor meets the state-mandated qualifications. Doing so can save you time and money in the long run.
Solar Contractor License
It’s essential to check that the contractor you chose has the appropriate licensing and insurance. Without proper licensing, the contractor may not be covered should something go wrong with the residential solar system.
Furthermore, local ordinances may require that the contractor have special training and/or certification. Contacting the local licensing/business authority to verify the contractor’s license is the best move to make. This is to ensure that the contractor is legitimate.
Liability Insurance
Many solar contractors are not adequately insured and this can leave homeowners vulnerable in the case of an:
- accident
- dispute
- lawsuit
To avoid this common mistake, ensure that your contractors have sufficient liability insurance. This should protect both your home and your wallet in the event of a mishap. Also, be aware that each contractor may need to carry a different kind of insurance. This depends on the scope of the job. Ask for proof of liability insurance before signing a contract.
Workers’ Compensation Insurance
The workers’ compensation insurance should be up to date. This is especially important for independent contractors, who you will not be maintaining employee records for. Without workers’ compensation insurance, you may be held liable for any medical expenses incurred as a result of a contractor’s injury while on your premises.
To avoid this, make sure that you ask for and review a copy of the contractor’s insurance paperwork before hiring them. A reputable contractor should be more than willing to provide you with proof of workers’ compensation insurance. As an added precaution, you should also ask them to add you as an additional insured on their policy.
Finally, make sure the license and insurance policy is up-to-date, and check the local licensing guidelines to confirm the contractor is meeting all requirements. Avoiding this and other common mistakes will ensure the solar installation process goes smoothly, with the best outcome.
4. Ignoring Warranties
Warranties provide customers with safety and peace of mind when their solar system fails or malfunctions after installation. However, many companies forget to ask about what warranties their solar contractor provides or even worse, fail to inquire about the length and type of warranty that is offered.
Before hiring a solar contractor, it is imperative that you thoroughly research their reputation and the terms of the warranty they provide so that you are well educated on what is and is not covered. Even if the solar contractor provides a lengthy warranty, find out if they offer a money-back guarantee in case the contractor is unable to repair any potential damages.
Doing your due diligence by researching the warranty and always asking questions to ensure that it is up to your standards will help protect your investment and ensure a successful installation.
5. Not Asking for References
To do the job correctly, a solar contractor needs to be both knowledgeable and trustworthy. By inquiring for references, you can gauge if your potential contractor fits these qualifications. References can also let you know if others have had a positive experience with this solar contractor and if they have returned to use their services again.
Additionally, talking to a reference can give you a chance to inquire more deeply and get a better understanding of what to expect when working with them. Don’t rely solely on online reviews, they don’t always provide the most accurate information.
Requesting references is an easy and essential step in finding the right contractor for the job. It can help you avoid potential pitfalls and choose the right solar contractor for your project.
6. Not Considering the Future
When considering hiring a solar contractor, it’s easy to get swept up in the current moment and the present needs of the project. However, it’s equally important to consider the future needs. If a contractor installs a system that doesn’t have enough power production for your needs down the road, it will be incredibly expensive to upgrade later. To avoid this mistake, plan and voice your expectations clearly to the contractor.
Explain your desired end goal and what your solar system should look like in a few years. You should also request that the contractor provides access to their records and specifications of the installation.
It’s important to ask the contractor how their system will be able to scale up in the future. Never skimp on quality or details no matter how small. Be sure to know what components are included in the job, and when possible, research them online to ensure they match your needs.
7. Not Understanding the Installation Process
It is important to understand the various components and procedures that go into a solar installation. This is before hiring a contractor to avoid some costly mistakes.
To ensure a quality installation job, it is important to understand the various steps involved in a solar project. The solar contractor must secure any necessary permits for the installation. They must install the system and ensure all connections are secure.
They should then test the system to make sure the energy produced is up to industry standards. The contractor must provide regular maintenance and inspections of the system. This will ensure it is working as expected.
Each of these steps is essential to a successful solar installation. Thus, it is important to ask contractors about the process when selecting one to perform the job. By understanding the installation process and researching potential contractors, you can be sure to find a quality professional to install your system.
8. Not Discussing Financing Options
When it comes to solar panel installation and other related services, one of the most common mistakes made is not discussing financing options. This failure to discuss financing options can be costly as financing can be one of the most useful ways to cover the costs of a solar installation.
To avoid this mistake, ask the contractor about available financing options. Be sure to ask about any related taxes or fees associated with the financing, as well as the terms and conditions. Additionally, research any local, state, and federal incentives that may be available to offset the cost of the project.
Doing this can give you a good idea of the budget and timeline involved so that you can make an informed decision. By discussing financing options, you can be sure that you get the most out of your solar installation and ensure that the best decision is made for your situation.
9. Not Understanding the System’s Maintenance Requirements
It is a common mistake to forget to assess the solar contractor’s ability to understand the maintenance requirements. Employers should thoroughly evaluate the contractor’s solar installation experience, especially with maintaining system functions. They must be sure to ask for evidence of any prior jobs that have been successfully serviced.
It’s essential to find out if the contractor is familiar with the system. Ask if there are any available warranties offered that cover maintenance requirements. Hiring a respected and qualified contractor will help ensure the solar system runs efficiently and correctly. It ensures that the system is capable of withstanding daily use.
10. Not Comparing Multiple Quotes
It’s essential to get at least three bids. This should be done before committing to a solar provider to get the best deal on equipment and installation. Also, don’t be afraid to ask providers for bids on equipment other than what they are recommending.
They may be more motivated to give you a better deal. This is because they want to keep your business. In addition, be on the lookout for contractors who offer the lowest price with the promise of the best warranty.
These likely won’t hold up and may cost you more in the end for repairs or replacements. Before selecting a contractor, look for reviews and seek out educators or advice from energy-efficient organizations for help.
This will ensure that the contractor you select is experienced and skilled and that you are getting an honest price. And if you are confident you found the right contractor, then get solar installed now.
Avoid These Common Mistakes with Hiring Solar Contractors
In conclusion, it is essential to do your due diligence when considering hiring a solar contractor. Make sure the company is legitimate and that they have all the necessary licenses.
Carefully evaluate the costs involved. Make sure you understand the terms of the contract. Taking these steps to ensure the agreement is a good one for both parties involved will help you make sure your solar project turns out successful.
Consider working with reputable installers and avoid these common mistakes with hiring solar contractors.
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