Solar panels offer many benefits to property owners – clean energy, lower energy costs and, thanks to the tariff scheme, a steady income from electricity generation for 25 years. Unfortunately, the rush to install solar panels has brought many get-rich-and-run firms out of hiding to take advantage of consumers.
Even more unfortunately, many of these companies can fleece consumers, close their doors – disappearing with deposits paid for solar panels that will never be delivered – and open shop under another name to do it all again. The news website “This Is Lincolnshire” reported earlier this week about one such company that promised solar panels and took deposits after knocking on doors, then closed up shop.
At least one customer reported that he finally got his solar panels, but they were installed by another company that claimed to have bought the contract from the original group. Most of the Lincolnshire property owners, however, expect that they’ll never see their deposits again.
How to Avoid Dodgy Solar Panels Installers and Shady Solar PV Companies
The REAL Assurance Scheme aims to help homeowners avoid rogue installers, outright cheats and solar companies that do shoddy work. The organization, which is made up of solar PV installers, holds its members to high standards and requires certifications of all members listed on the REAL website. They also offer a number of tips to help property owners ensure that they contract for solar panels with legitimate, qualified solar PV installation companies.
Don’t do business with companies that come knocking at your door. Solar panels installers are jammed up with business. They don’t need to send people out knocking on doors or send out blind mail to your Inbox. Only do business with solar PV installation companies that you approach, and only approach those that are members of the REAL Assurance Scheme.
Check the Energy Saving Trust website for information about realistic costs and returns for solar panels in your area. You can enter your post code and other information and get an assessment of how much you can expect to gain from installing a solar PV system. That information will help you evaluate how truthful a salesperson is being with you.
Don’t sign with the first company that offers you a contract, especially if the company is pressuring you to close the deal immediately. Get at least three quotes from three different solar panels installers, and ask for references and testimonials from previous customers. Be sure to contact them yourself.
Always read any paperwork completely before signing it.
Only sign a contract with a company that holds a current MCS certificate.
The vast majority of solar PV installers are legitimate companies that install high-quality solar panels and systems. Use these tips to make sure you’re dealing with one of them.
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