In Part 1 of this series, we examined the location, age, experience and products used by the prospective solar installation company. In Part 2, of this series we examined the sales tactics of some installers. In this final installment we’re going to look at the legal and professional aspects of a good installer. Frankly, this one is booooring! And there’s not much that can be done to make it interesting. Therefore, we’re going to keep it short and simple!
8) Has your company ever been sued?
You would be surprised at the number of companies that are facing or have settled class action lawsuits within the solar industry. In fact, one of the largest solar installers working in Ohio is facing a class action suit right now where it is alleged that their sales people make intentionally false promises to their customers. Do your own research, know if the company has had problems in the past and then ask the question.
9) Why is this in my Agreement?
Read every word of your Construction Agreement. Understand what you’re signing . . . after all, the company you’re signing with will be building an energy producing power plant at your business or home. If there’s something you don’t understand, and if the person you’re working with doesn’t understand it either . . . wait . . . don’t sign, and seek legal help.
10) Are you certified, licensed and / or preferred?
How does the industry view the company you’re considering? What training have they had and by who? There are many forms of validation here. Don’t take the company at their word, let them produce their certification / status.
11) Are you insured?
It’s rather easy for a company to produce an up to date insurance certificate. Make the company you’re working with produce an insurance certificate that has coverage appropriate for the task at hand.
12) Can you tell me about this review?
Read the company’s positive and negative reviews. (Here are some of ours.) What’s the explanation for the negative reviews or complaints with the BBB? Read a particular review and ask about it.
Also, ask for three references . . . and ask each of the references:
- Would they work with the installer again?
- What didn’t you like about the installation?
- How did the installer address any issues?
- Were the estimates on ROI and production output accurate?
We hope you find the information provided in this series insightful. I like to say that The OGW Difference is the intersection between environmental stewardship and fiscally sound business. We believe that our tailored residential and commercial solar solutions are not just for the discerning customer. To this end we hope to help all future adopters of solar have zero buyer’s remorse. It is our sincere wish that even if you don’t work with OGW Energy Resources, that you have a great experience with a quality installation company.