With so many people installing solar panels in their home to conserve energy and go off the grid, there have been more documented disputes between individuals and solar panel suppliers or companies. What exacerbates the issue is that not all suppliers are reliable or provide high-quality services, and there are also solar panel scammers who try to steal money from unsuspecting clients.
We’ve found that solar panel disputes tend to occur as a result of various issues, such as poor workmanship and installation delays.
Having a clearly defined contract outlining the work scope, costs, and other features of the project is essential to avoid lengthy and expensive disputes.
Read the rest of this article to learn more about solar panel disputes and how to resolve them, as well as when you should seek legal counsel.
What are Common Solar Panel Disputes?
Arguments over solar panel installation can arise over various issues. Some of the most common ones include:
- Installation complications. For example, if installing the solar panels has caused damage to the roof or the panels are defective.
- Workmanship. The company doesn’t provide work that meets the owner’s quality standards or expectations.
- Payment issues. These can include hidden costs.
- Breaches of contract. A prime example is if the installation company doesn’t meet their obligations that were specified in the contract.
How Can You Prevent Solar Panel Disputes?
To prevent solar panel disputes, there are some things you can do.
Research solar panel companies
Before hiring a company to install solar panels on your property, you should do your research. Get a few quotes from different companies to get the best prices. Check the companies’ licenses, years of experience, and online reviews.
Get a Legal Review for Your Contract
Ask your lawyer to read through the contract with the solar panel supplier you’ve hired.
ContractsCounsel, an online legal network that connects clients with vetted lawyers for contract drafting and review, has experienced lawyers that will review your contract for any red flags or inconsistencies.
For example, the contract should provide clarity about the work performance and deadlines, as well as payment schedules. The terms should be specific for both parties to understand so that there are no misunderstandings that can lead to disputes at a later stage.
Be Aware of Solar Panel Scams
Some fraudulent companies try to scam customers. To avoid becoming a target, keep an eye out for red flags that they’re not professional or reputable before handing over your money. Common red flags include:
- They exaggerate your electric savings. This is a ploy to get you to hire them for the installation.
- They add vague or hidden clauses to the contract. There could be hidden fees mentioned in the agreement in a confusing or vague way.
- They promise free solar panels. You might be tempted by the promise of free solar panels, but these could come with hidden costs.
- They request full payment upfront. It’s advisable to pay installments over the course of the project so that you can see the work is completed to your satisfaction, instead of handing over the full amount.
How Can You Deal with a Solar Panel Dispute?
If you find yourself in a dispute with a solar panel company or supplier, there are some things you should do right away.
Review your contract with the installation company
Check all dispute and resolution clauses, as well as other terms so that you’re aware of any contract violations and your consumer rights.
Contact the company in writing
Avoid verbal communication and agreements. If you contact the company about remedying the issue you’re experiencing, you should do this in writing so that you’ll have their response documented. For example, if the company agrees to repair a damaged solar panel, you want to have written proof of when and how they will complete this.
Avoid making hasty decisions
Although you might be feeling angry and want to take drastic action, such as stopping payment, this could cause you to breach your contract without realizing it, landing you in legal problems.
Check the warranty
You should check how long the warranty is for and what defects the supplier is responsible for during that time.
Seek legal guidance
If you can’t seem to reach an agreement with the company, or you’re unsure of how to navigate the dispute, you should consult a lawyer.
What About Alternative Dispute Resolution?
To reach a resolution with the solar panel company, there are alternative dispute resolution strategies to consider.
Negotiation
If you want to try to reach an agreement with the solar panel company, have a negotiation with them. This is an informal way of reaching a compromise and hearing each other out, without having to pay any legal costs. Make sure that whatever is decided is put in writing.
Mediation
This is when a neutral third party allows both parties to express their views and helps them to reach a compromise or settlement. If emotions are running high or communication with the company has shut down, mediation can help to bring resolution.
Arbitration
This is more formal than mediation as it involves an arbitrator who strives to resolve the dispute between both parties. The arbitrator has the authority to provide an “award,” or legally-binding decision.
Should You Hire a Lawyer?
If you’re unhappy with the terms of your contract with the solar panel company or you feel that they have violated it, you should consult a lawyer for advice and guidance.
Other situations in which you might want to hire a lawyer for assistance include:
- The supplier has damaged your roof or property but denies it.
- The supplier has stopped replying to your calls or emails.
- You suspect the supplier of being a scammer.
Lawyers will explain remedies for your dispute, such as by making claims for breach of contract or fraud, while protecting your rights.
Need help with a solar panel dispute?
Post a request for a lawyer on ContractsCounsel. You’ll connect with experienced, vetted lawyers who have experience in drafting and reviewing solar panel contracts. They’ll also be able to help you with disputes with solar panel companies.
