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Frequently Asked Questions
What qualities should homeowners look for when choosing a solar installer? SEIA recommends evaluating installers on: NABCEP certification, state licensing (electrical and roofing), years in business, number of completed local installations, references from past customers, quality of the written proposal (including system modeling data and explicit warranty terms), and whether the company performs its own installations or subcontracts them.
Why does installer experience matter for long-term solar system performance? Lawrence Berkeley National Lab’s Tracking the Sun research documents measurable performance differences between systems installed by experienced contractors versus newer entrants. Experienced installers make fewer workmanship errors, complete permitting with fewer delays, and are more likely to be operating if a warranty claim arises 10–15 years after installation.
What should homeowners ask a solar installer before signing a contract? Key questions include: Who will perform the physical installation (employees or subcontractors)? What is the workmanship warranty term and what does it cover? Will you provide the modeling software report behind the production estimate? What is the realistic permission-to-operate timeline for my jurisdiction? The DOE homeowner guide provides a complete pre-contract checklist.
How does a company’s local market focus benefit homeowners? Local solar installers typically have established relationships with the local AHJ and utility, leading to faster permitting and interconnection approval. They understand jurisdiction-specific design requirements, such as local fire code setback rules that may differ from national NEC 690 minimums, reducing the risk of permit rejections or inspection failures.
Further Reading from Authoritative Sources
- SEIA Solar Contractor Standards and Finder — SEIA is the national solar trade association providing industry standards and contractor evaluation guidance directly relevant to installer selection.
- DOE Homeowner’s Guide — Choosing a Solar Installer — energy.gov/eere/solar provides the primary federal guidance on contractor evaluation for residential solar installations.