The average home can save between $20,000 and $75,000 in energy costs over the lifespan of a single solar panel system. In other words, installing solar panels can be highly beneficial.
But if you’re going to install solar power panels, you have to make sure to use the right installer. The question is: how do you find the right solar services for the job? The answer: by reading this article and heeding its advice.
Without further ado, here’s how to find the right solar panel installation company.
Search Google
You should begin by searching Google. In particular, you should type in something to the effect of “solar panel installer near me”.
This will bring up a list of installers in your area. This will also bring up star ratings for these installers as well as reviews from past customers.
You should use these reviews and ratings to find the best installers in the area, and then build a shortlist of candidates based on your findings. We advise comprising a list of 3 to 5 candidates. These candidates will be compared further using the following points.
Look at Experience
Installing solar panels is an intensive job. After all, you’re literally attaching large, heavy objects to the roof of a house. That takes not only great time but effort as well, not to mention know-how.
If you’ve never done it before, you’re going to struggle to do it correctly. And if you do it incorrectly, it could create an unsafe situation for those who live on the property. Plus, improper installation could result in functionality issues.
Therefore, when looking for an installer, it’s vital to assess their experience level. You don’t want to hire a newcomer for such an important job. You want someone who’s been around the block several times.
We advise hiring a company with at least 2 years of installation experience. If a company has maintained a positive reputation over such a span, they’re likely a safe bet.
Get Estimates
One of the major benefits of solar energy is that it cuts your overall energy costs. As such, if you’re looking to install solar panels, it’s probably because you want to save money.
Want to save as much money as possible? Be sure to get estimates when browsing different companies. This way, you’ll be able to compare different costs and get the best price possible.
How do get estimates for such services? Simply call up the company you’re considering and ask for one. They’ll ask you some questions, and will supply you with an estimate after you’ve accurately answered them.
Note, the lowest estimate isn’t necessarily the best choice. It still needs to include good, reputation-backed service. But if it does, then, by all means, go with it over the others.
Looking for a reasonably priced solar installer currently? Then check out this site.
Ask About Licensure
Licensing requirements for solar installers vary from state to state. That said, you should, at the very least, ensure that your installer has an electrical contractor’s license.
You should also ensure that they’re capable of getting permits for the job that is to be done. This will, in most cases, require a home improvement permit from the municipality in which the improvement is being made.
You’ll also want to ensure that the installer is OHSA-certified. This indicates that they have the requisite safety training.
Inquire About Insurance
Not only should your chosen solar installer have the proper licensure but the proper insurance coverage as well. This is vital, as it could protect you in the event that damage is done to your property. It could also protect you in the event that one of the installer’s employees is injured on your property.
If your installer doesn’t have insurance, and damage or an injury occurs, they might try to get out of the situation without fixing it. This would leave it to you to pay for either repairs or workers’ compensation. Or you could pursue a lawsuit, which isn’t desirable either.
General liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance protect you from these consequences and are therefore something that your installer needs to have. See proof of both before signing any contracts.
Get Details on Warranties
Warranties are something else that you need to consider when choosing between solar installers. If you hire an installer who doesn’t provide warranties, you could end up in a situation where you have to pay for an undue repair. You shouldn’t have to do this, especially after spending large amounts of money on the installation.
So, when comparing different installers, be sure to ask about the warranties they provide. Most will give some sort of labor warranty for the first few years of the installation. This will cover the repair costs for all damages that occur due to installation mishaps.
Whatever you do, don’t choose a company that doesn’t offer any warranty at all. Even the best installers make mistakes, so you’ll want to be covered for at least some length of time.
In any case, be sure that the warranty is detailed in the contract. If it’s just a word-of-mouth warranty, it likely won’t hold up in court.
Looking for the Right Solar Panel Installation Company?
Are you looking to go solar? Need a solar panel installation company in your area? Then heed the above-reviewed advice and do your due diligence.
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