If you want solar panels, you need to be very careful when evaluating installation proposals. Scammers use deceptive sales tactics and lies to con homeowners out of money and personal information. If you receive a "free solar panel" offer, it's probably a scam. Always look for a company you can trust, such as an accredited company that uses the BBB seal. Here's what you need to know:
How does the scam work?
In cases reported to the BBB Scam Tracker, someone will contact you by email. by mail, phone, social media or even in person. You pretend to be a salesperson at a solar company. The "representative" has a special offer: he can install solar panels on your home at a very low cost, even for free. This great offer is only available for a limited time, so act now!
From here the trick can take several turns. In some versions, scammers track your personal information. You will be asked to fill in a form with your bank details "to see if you qualify". In other cases, "solar reps" insist that you pay up front for costs they promise to reimburse through government programs (which don't exist).
BBB Scam Tracker has seen many reports of this type of scam. The homeowner was approached by a door-to-door salesman who "claimed he could buy me a new roof and solar system at 26% off the state new roof levy." Upon investigation, the homeowner discovered that there was a government rebate program, but the seller provided false information to make the sale.
In another case, a homeowner spoke to a "solar technician" on the phone after being approached in person. “The engineer claimed he could do it for us for free. He said that they had completed the installation in our district and reached their quota, but they tried to pressure us." But when the "solar engineer" asked for personal information, the conversation turned strange. When the host refused to to answer, the conversation became heated.' We ended the conversation and I got a mean text message...It was totally unprofessional."
According to another homeowner, "Scammers use printed notes on front doors to pretend it's sunny forever." When I called the company, it turned out the person wasn't one of their employees and they didn't do door-to-door work. go to the door. For printed contact information, please contact us by phone or text.
How to avoid solar panel fraud
• Do your research. Real incentive programs and leading solar companies available. Before accepting an unsolicited offer, research solar companies in your area. Before signing an employment contract, research each company's reputation and experience.
• Don't give in to pressure sales tactics. Scammers want to trigger an emotional response that will make you do what they want without thinking. Working; Realize that a reputable company will not force you to take action. If someone uses aggressive sales tactics against you, it's best to cut off contact immediately.
• Receive competitive offers. If you plan to go solar and get quotes from individual companies, contact several solar installers. When someone is cheating, it is easier to see.
• Ask lots of questions and check the answers. Ask questions about aspects of the contract or offer that you do not understand. If the company seems annoyed by your questions, refuses to respond, or provides unclear answers, consider this a red flag.
Find solar installers and solar contractors near you at BBB.org. You can also find the BBB's guide to solar energy, our DIY Center or our Roofing Center.
