Investing in solar panels is a significant step towards energy security and avoiding price hikes on your utilities, with the end goal being to save money while living more sustainably. However, the journey towards harnessing solar power can hit roadblocks, sometimes costing homeowners more money than expected or leaving these solar customers with incomplete systems.

One roadblock that can occur happens when a solar installation company goes out of business before completing the installation. Having been in business serving Texas since 2007, NATiVE Solar has been witness to many companies coming and going in the industry. We have weathered the ebbs and flows of the industry over the years, debunking myths and keeping our company and the industry’s reputation in good standing. In this article and the video below, we explore what homeowners can do if they find themselves in this unfortunate situation. We also discuss a solution that can help homeowners get their solar projects back on track.

Has the Solar Installer You Hired Gone Out of Business?
Before delving into the solutions, it’s essential to recognize the signs that your chosen solar installation company has indeed gone out of business. Some red flags include:

• Unresponsive Communication: When phone calls, emails, or messages go unanswered for an extended period, it may indicate trouble within the company.
• Delayed or Abandoned Projects: If your installation has stalled, or the company has halted operations without any explanation, this can be a worrying sign.
• Online Research: A quick online search might reveal news articles, customer complaints, or legal actions against the company.

A Recent Case: Customer Comments and Issues
In September, many Texas solar customers were impacted when their solar installation company abruptly went out of business, leaving numerous homeowners in the lurch. Many affected customers have shared their experiences and challenges online:

• Missed Deadlines: Several of the company’s customers reported missed installation deadlines, causing frustration and inconvenience.
• Financial Concerns: Some customers expressed concerns about potential financial losses due to deposits paid upfront and unfulfilled warranties.
• Quality Assurance: Incomplete installations raised questions about the quality of work and safety of the solar systems installed by this company.
• Uncertainty: Homeowners were left uncertain about the future of their solar projects, with no clear path forward.

What Recourse Can You Take If This Happens?
If you find yourself in a situation where your solar installer has gone out of business, there are several steps you can take to protect your investment and complete your solar installation:

• Review Contracts and Warranties: Begin by reviewing your contract and warranty documents. Check for any clauses or provisions related to the company’s bankruptcy or closure. This information will help you understand your legal rights and options.
• Contact Authorities: Reach out to local and state authorities, such as consumer protection agencies or the attorney general’s office, to report the situation and seek guidance on potential legal actions.
• Consult an Attorney: If necessary, consult an attorney who specializes in consumer protection or contract law. They can advise you on the best course of action, such as pursuing a legal claim against the defunct company.
• Explore Insurance Options: Check if your homeowner’s insurance policy covers solar installations. Some policies offer protection against contractor defaults or project interruptions.

Lastly, you may need to seek a replacement installer. It’s essential to hire a reputable solar installation company to complete the project, like NATiVE Solar. Our company has extensive experience working with partially installed systems and can assess the existing work for safety and compliance. Our dedicated service team have been providing maintenance, upgrades, and additions to many solar PV systems originally installed by other companies across the state.

NATiVE Solar is the Solution for Your Orphaned System
At NATiVE Solar, we understand the frustration and uncertainty homeowners face when their solar installation company goes out of business. We are committed to helping homeowners like you get your installation back on track and ensure that you are satisfied with your solar system.

Here’s how we can assist:

• Experienced Installers: Our team comprises experienced solar installers who have successfully completed numerous projects over a 16 year period, including those left incomplete by other companies. We understand the intricacies of orphaned systems and can seamlessly take over your installation.
• System Assessment: We conduct a thorough assessment of the existing work to identify any safety concerns or compliance issues. Our goal is to ensure that your solar system functions optimally and meets all safety standards.
• Transparent Communication: We prioritize clear and transparent communication throughout the process. We’ll keep you informed about the progress of your installation, answer your questions, and address any concerns you may have.
• Warranty and Support: Rest assured that we stand by our work. We offer a 10-year warranty on the workmanship of your system as well as ongoing support to ensure the long-term performance and durability of your solar system.

Having a solar installation company ghost you can be a distressing situation for any homeowner. However, we hope that outlining the steps needed to protect your investment and get your solar project back on track was helpful. By reviewing contracts, consulting legal experts, and working with a reputable replacement installer like NATiVE Solar, you can still achieve your goal of going solar. Don’t let the setback deter you from receiving the benefits of solar that you initially sought. #TakeYourPowerBack with NATiVE Solar!