Questions before comparing solar quotes

The independent contractor you choose provides your proposal and installation contract. Read the scope, payment terms, exclusions and workmanship provisions before signing.

Cost varies; get several quotes. The supplied Hillsborough County permit records contain no usable valuation figures for a local price range. Declared permit values are not price quotes.

Hillsborough County permit records show 1,348 solar permits and 97 contractors represented during the reporting period. Those figures describe filings, not completed installations, customer satisfaction or referral availability.

Ask for a roof assessment before accepting a solar layout. Discuss roof condition, remaining service life and planned repairs with the relevant contractors. Request written terms for panel removal and reinstallation if later roof work is needed.

Ask how the proposed mounting and attachments address wind exposure at your property. Request an explanation of the design documents, roof penetrations and weatherproofing responsibilities. Avoid relying on a broad claim that equipment is hurricane-proof.

Ask the contractor you choose to confirm requirements with the applicable permitting authority and explain them in writing. Include responsibility for plans, applications, revisions, inspections and closeout in the contract.

Ask the contractor to describe the proposed system's outage operation. A panel proposal does not establish that backup power is included. Request a written backup design identifying equipment and supported household circuits.

Verify licenses and insurance, then compare written scopes, equipment, production assumptions, exclusions and contract terms. Ask who performs the work and handles service requests. Permit activity alone does not establish contractor quality.