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Whether you select a Vaillant-certified solar installer or another solar company, we highly encourage you to follow these top ten tips to finding the right solar installer that will meet your specific needs.
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Hire only licensed contractors – Visit the Contractors State License Board at www.cslb.ca.gov or call at 1-800-321-2752 to verify contractor licensing.
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Be sure the installer is insured – Verify the certificate of insurance for general liability insurance. Uninsured workers can file for damages against the homeowner if injured on the job.
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Get multiple bids – Get three bids so you can compare the costs of installation. Don’t let price be your guide - remember that the lowest bid is not always the best.
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Review past work – Call and pre-qualify several solar installers before selecting one. Ask the installer for at least three references from previous satisfied customers.
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Get a written contract – Be sure to specify start and completion dates of the job - insist on a specified progressive payment schedule.
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Review before signing – do not sign under pressure. Insist on 48 hours to review if needed.
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Set a payment schedule – Do not pay cash and do not let payments get ahead of completed work. Never pay for work before it is done.
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Do not pay more than 10% or $1,000 as a down payment – Keep the final 10% payment upon completion of the job.
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Review the warranty details – Make sure that there is a specific guideline provided by installer or the manufacturer.
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Keep a job file – Maintain a paper trail of receipts, permits, plans, and warranty information. | |
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