Watch Out for These Red Flags When Going Solar

As solar energy has become an increasingly popular among homeowners the past few years, so has the number of unethical practices within the industry. While some companies prioritize their customers' best interests, others focus solely on profits, often using questionable tactics to do so.

At Green Mountain Solar, we are committed to putting our customers first. We believe in providing solar systems to customers who genuinely benefit from them, ensuring confidence in their purchases. Our goal is to protect the planet while upholding the highest standards of integrity and transparency. Unfortunately, not all companies share this commitment.

To help you avoid falling victim to solar scams and unreliable companies, we’ve compiled a list of red flags to watch for when selecting a solar installation provider.

Uninvited Door-to-Door Sales

Beware of solar companies that rely on unsolicited door-to-door sales tactics. These companies understand the pressure homeowners feel when speaking face-to-face, making it harder to say “no” to their pitch. This method can be intrusive, especially when you’re not expecting visitors or ready to make a major financial decision on the spot. If a salesperson shows up unannounced, it's often a red flag that their priority is closing a sale—regardless of whether solar is a good fit for your home.

A Questionable Track Record

Before committing to a solar provider, take time to research their financial history and any past missteps. For example, one of Vermont’s prominent solar companies recently made headlines when they filed for bankruptcy after financial challenges earlier this year. Transparency and a strong track record are crucial to ensure you can trust your installer will be there for you in the long run when you have questions, need maintenance or want to invest in more clean energy technology. Be sure to read through the installer’s reviews, particularly, looking at the number of negative ones vs. positive ones — this may highlight some watch-outs to be cautious of when working with them!

Deals That Seem Too Good to Be True

When it comes to solar, deals that seem "too good to be true" often are. Offers of “free” solar installations or prices that seem suspiciously low may be scams. Always read the fine print and don’t hesitate to ask detailed questions if a deal seems unusually attractive. Protect yourself by making sure the offer aligns with industry standards.

Quotes Without In-Person Site Visits

We’re the first to tell customers that solar is not the right fit for everyone. While we strongly believe in the benefits of solar, we recognize that there are several factors that make a home a good fit for a solar system like the orientation of a roof, the type of roof material, and more.

If a company offers you a quote for a system without ever seeing your property in-person and properly evaluating if it would be a productive site for solar, they’re not concerned with whether it is a smart investment for you specifically. We advise not engaging with a company that does not do an in-person site visit before creating a proposal for your project.

Leasing Solar Panels

We strongly recommend owning your solar panels rather than leasing them to fully maximize the benefits of solar energy. While leasing can allow you to go solar for a lower monthly cost, there are drawbacks to consider on taking the leasing route.

One of the primary advantages of switching to solar is gaining control over your power and reducing reliance on external providers. Leasing, however, strips you of key benefits like eligibility for solar incentives and full control over the energy you generate. Furthermore, companies offering leases often profit not only from your monthly payments but also by selling the excess energy produced by the panels on your property.

By keeping an eye out for these red flags, you can make a well-informed decision and ensure your investment in solar energy is both secure and beneficial. At Green Mountain Solar, we’re here to provide honest, reliable service that empowers you to make the best choice for your home and the planet.