How to Find a Reputable Solar Installer in Massachusetts
You’ve calculated how much you can save with a solar system. You’ve figured out how long it will take to break even. You’ve even determined what federal tax credits are available in Massachusetts and New Hampshire and how to claim them.
You’ve taken the first steps toward educating yourself about solar energy … and that’s great!
Now the big decision – Who will you hire to install your new solar system?
So many to choose from. The solar industry abounds with many installers – some small two- or three-person companies and roofers with a solar department to full-service roofing companies with technical expertise installing solar systems. Sadly, some companies out there are less than reputable.
Due diligence is the answer.
Follow these seven steps and you can be confident you are making a well-informed decision. If a local installer approaches you, feel free to consider them, but vet them just the same as you would any other contractor. There are good companies that do proactive marketing, but there are also scammers that approach homeowners door to door or by cold calls. “Buyer beware” is a caution to remember.
Read reviews carefully
When checking on installers on your list, read the verified reviews of those who have hired the company. Is there a common theme of excellence (or complaints)?
Reviews are one piece of information, not the end of your search.
Check with your local Better Business Bureau for feedback on companies with complaints against them.
Talk to your neighbors who have a solar system.
Ask around. Homeowners who have gone through the installation experience will have a lot to share. Use your neighborhood Facebook page to ask for recommendations. If the same company name keeps surfacing, good or bad, you’ll have valuable decision-making information.
Ask specific questions:
- What was communication and responsiveness like with the company you used?
- Did the project go smoothly or were there unexpected issues?
- How did the company handle issues?
- Overall, were you satisfied with the process?
- How did you select this company?
- Would you select the same company again or recommend them?
Check potential companies for license and certifications
You’ll want to ask potential installers if they have a North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners certification or if they have a license from the state in which they work. This website lists the requirements for licensing in each state.
If an installer has a license, it indicates that they have met certain requirements that demonstrates a certain level of proficiency.
Ask about incentives
Is the company you are considering offering a discount or promotion of any kind? Will they help with financing? Do they help with applications for rebates or tax incentives?
Get multiple quotes and compare.
Some installers will offer quotes online or over the phone by looking at satellite imagery of your roof. Neither of these is the best method. Satellite images can be dated and may not show the roof in sunshine and in shade at different times of the day.
Look for an installer that will make a home visit and sit down with you to explain their process and each phase of the project.
Ask lots of questions.
A very important decision-making tool is a discussion where you have the opportunity to ask questions, address concerns, and assess how you are “feeling” about the representative and company you are considering.
Be sure to ask:
Will the solar cells be placed only on the south-facing portion of the roof or on the entire roof?
What is the expected timeline of the project?
Do you recommend replacing the roof prior to installing the solar system?
What permits are necessary and how long will it take to obtain them?
How often will you communicate with us and by what means?
What do you estimate our energy savings will be?
Do you hire subcontractors to perform some, or all, of the work included in the solar installation? If so, ask what oversight the company you contract with has over their subcontractors.
What do you offer in terms of maintenance and/or repair for the solar system you install? What maintenance procedures should I, the homeowner, be responsible for?
Warranties – what’s covered and for how long?
If there is an issue with your solar system, you want to know who to call. Warranties come with your solar system — manufacturer warranties for various components and workmanship warranties from your installer for the work they perform. The warranty may be valid for one year or for ten years. Be sure to determine what is included in your warranty; if there are any exclusions; and if there is any cost to you in the event the installer must return to fix something.
Selecting the right installer could be the most important step in going solar. Remember that cost isn’t the most important factor in your decision. Asking the right questions and being assured that you are getting the answers you need is an essential building block in your relationship with the company you select.
If you are planning on adding a solar system, be sure to give us a call at (508) 873-1884 or book a free one-hour consultation. Our Golden Group professional team will visit your home to examine your location, roof line and calculate dimensions. We’ll explain our solar installation process, and answer all your questions.
