Signing an installation contract

It’s important to review any contract–solar or otherwise–thoroughly before signing. While all solar installation contracts have the same basic structure, they often have slight variations from company to company. 

Here are a few key details to be on the lookout for: 

• A breakdown of the investment (i.e., the costs and benefits)
• A breakdown of applicable federal, state or utility incentives
• Details on the equipment the company will install (panels, inverters, batteries)
• A payment schedule 
• Any cancellation terms and clauses within the agreement. 

Common questions

Is it normal to sign a contract before a site visit?

Yes – signing a contract with installers before they conduct a site visit is an increasingly common practice nationwide. Because solar installers want to save on overhead costs and offer the best price possible for their customers, they try to limit the number of sites they send sales reps and engineers to. 

That said, before signing on the dotted line, it’s important to confirm there’s some way to cancel the agreement post-site visit if the installer identifies something during the appointment that changes the feasibility or the economics of your investment. Contractors, by law, should have a ‘three day right to cancel’ within the contract if you decide you no longer want to install panels.

Read more about signing contracts pre-site visit

Do I have to pay a deposit when I sign an installation contract?

Many installers require some sort of deposit upon signature. The deposit amount–along with the rest of the payment schedule–should be outlined in your contract. 

Can I cancel a contract before installation?

Every installation contract should include the right to cancel within three days of signing, at a minimum. We recommend reviewing cancellation terms thoroughly before signing any contract.