Asking the RIGHT questions

Finding the right company

  • Make sure that you feel comfortable with company and your sales consultant
  • You should never feel like you are in a “high-pressure” sales situation
  • High-quality products, experience installing solar, and a desirable warranty are all key
  • Solar sales consultants are experts, they should be able to answer any questions you have

FINANCIAL QUESTIONS

How much does a solar electric system cost?

There will be price differences if you choose financing or leasing. Typically, leases multiply the total cost 2-3x. Make sure you get the monthly estimated bill. Get the total cost of the system at the end of the financial terms.

  • Shop around the price.
  • Ask about the tax credit, when you buy, that goes to you and when you lease that goes to them.
  • Leases have an “escalator clause”, where your monthly payment will increase over time.


By the end of the lease, your monthly payment might not be less than a utility bill. Going solar should save you money. Make sure they can prove it does; both short and long-term.

What is the quality of our products?

The quality of the parts affects the amount of electricity produced by the system. The less effective your solar power system, the less money you can save on your electricity bill.

If the solar panels aren’t from a trusted manufacturer, panel failures can be more frequent.

Do we use licensed and experienced installers?

Solar installation involves electrics, carpentry, and safety. A solar license is different from being a licensed electrical contractor.

Your installer will be punching holes in your roof to install this system. It’s better to have a solar company that has roofing expertise.

How does adding solar power effect my home’s value?

If you’re in the last home you’ll ever own, resale value isn’t so important. However, if you plan on selling down the line, there are a couple of things to consider.

  • Buying a solar power system is a great investment that typically adds $10,000 per kW installed to the resale value of your home.
  • If you lease a system, instead of buying, the new owner must assume the lease. They can refuse, or use that as a bargaining chip against you.
What are the warranty details?

Find out how the long warranty lasts, and what are the details.

  • A good warranty should include all parts and labor.
  • With most warranties, the moment anyone makes changes to your roof installation, they’ve voided your warranty.
  • Ask about how much of the roof your solar installer is willing to warranty. Most of them only cover a very small perimeter around the panels. A good company will warranty the roof under the system all the way to the bottom of the roof line.