Choosing the right residential solar contractor can be essential in a home’s transition to renewable energy. Here are a few things to look for.
First, check reviews to see how long they’ve been in business. It would help if you also asked for references from friends and neighbors.
Ask for References
You’ll want to ask the residential solar contractor you are considering to provide a list of references. These are their previous customers who can speak to the quality of their work and customer service.
Request references from at least three reputable companies, such as Solar by Peak to Peak you might consider. These will give you a good idea of what to expect when choosing the right company for your home.
Another thing to look for is the level of experience that the solar installation expert has. Your contractor must have years of experience installing solar systems and working with homes like yours.
You also need to ensure that they are licensed and insured. This will protect you from liability and accidents, which can result in costly damage to your property.
Look at Their Work
You’ll want to look at the number of solar installations the contractor has done. A low number is a sign of someone who might be just getting started and isn’t dedicated to solar.
A high number means a company with a strong track record for success and committed to doing the job right the first time. You also want to check the length of time the contractor has been in business.
The best way to do this is to ask for references from customers who have already been through the process and worked with the company.
These people have a lot of experience with the solar company, and they can tell you how good their overall experience was. This can help you decide whether or not to work with them and what type of solar panels are the best for your home.
Check for Licenses and Insurance
When choosing a residential solar contractor, you want to ensure they have the necessary business licenses and insurance to perform their work. You can verify their claims on the License Lookup Directory or by contacting your state’s licensing agency.
This shows that they’re serious about solar and have taken the time to earn their certification.
Additionally, an excellent rooftop solar panels company should offer a warranty for its equipment. These warranties detail expected decreases in efficiency over time and usually last for at least 20 years.
It would help if you also looked for a local residential solar installer who is familiar with the topography of your area and can ensure that your system gets all the necessary permits. This is crucial to a smooth installation process.
Ask Questions
When you hire a residential solar contractor, knowing what to ask is essential. Choosing the right solar contractor for your home is like hiring a plumber to fix a leaky faucet or a general contractor to remodel your kitchen.
It would help if you got several quotes from solar companies. This will ensure that you’re getting a fair price and comparing credentials.
Another question is whether the company offers a warranty or guarantee on their work. The best installers offer artistry warranties of at least five years.
How long will the installation process take?
A good solar company should be able to give you a timeline for the whole project. It’s not uncommon for this process to take two months or more.
It’s also important to ask whether or not the installer will handle all of the paperwork and permits for you. This is especially true if you apply for federal or state tax credits or incentives.