Hiring a solar installer is one of those things where a bad decision costs you for years. Most people pick the wrong one because they rush or get dazzled by a sales pitch. Here's what actually matters.
What to Look For
Look for a crew that's been in business at least five years. New companies pop up every month and vanish just as fast. Check that they use actual licensed electricians on staff, not subcontractors who might cut corners. Ask to see examples of their work from the past year. A good installer will have photos and addresses of homes they've done. They should also handle all the permitting and utility paperwork without you chasing them.
Questions to Ask
Ask who does the roof work if your roof needs repairs. Some installers do it in-house, others hire whoever's cheapest. Ask what happens if a panel fails in year seven. They should explain the warranty process clearly, not just hand you a brochure. Ask how they handle shading from trees or nearby buildings. A straight answer means they've thought about it. If they dodge or get defensive, that's your cue.
Red Flags
Watch out for anyone who demands full payment upfront. Legit companies ask for a deposit, then the rest after installation and inspection. Run from salespeople who claim you'll never pay an electric bill again. Solar cuts your bill, it doesn't kill it. Avoid installers that can't give you at least three local references from the last year. Also skip anyone who pressures you to sign that day. Good work doesn't need high-pressure sales.
How Ratings Help You Choose
Ratings weed out the worst actors fast. Look for patterns in reviews, not just the star count. A company with four stars but ten complaints about slow repairs is riskier than one with three stars and none. Focus on reviews that mention response time, workmanship, and how they handled problems. A few bad reviews about pricing are normal. Multiple reviews about shoddy wiring or leaking roofs are not.
Compare local solar installers on RatingsNearMe before you sign anything.