Excerpt
As solar energy becomes more popular, homeowners are increasingly being targeted by door-to-door sales scams that use deceptive tactics to lock them into costly and misleading contracts. Many of these salespeople make false claims about government incentives, promise unrealistic energy savings, and pressure homeowners into signing agreements on the spot. In this article, you’ll learn how these scams work, the red flags to watch for, and the steps you can take to protect yourself from falling victim.
Deep Dive
Solar energy is an excellent investment, but as its popularity grows, so do scams targeting homeowners.
Many reputable solar companies use door-to-door sales, but some bad actors exploit this approach, using misleading claims, high-pressure tactics, and deceptive contracts to lock homeowners into unfavorable deals. Understanding these scams is the first step in protecting yourself.
How These Scams Work
One of the most common tactics is misrepresenting government incentives.
Some salespeople claim homeowners qualify for a “limited-time” government program or rebate that doesn’t actually exist. Others engage in bait-and-switch pricing, quoting an attractive deal only to introduce hidden fees and inflated costs later in the contract.
Another deceptive practice involves exaggerating energy savings. Some sellers promise that installing solar panels will completely eliminate electricity bills, when in reality, savings depend on several factors, including energy consumption, system size, and financing terms.
High-pressure sales tactics are also a major red flag.
If a salesperson insists that a contract must be signed immediately to secure a special rate, it’s often a strategy to prevent homeowners from doing proper research. In some extreme cases, scammers have even forged signatures or enrolled homeowners in financing plans without their consent.
How to Protect Yourself
Before signing any solar contract, research the company thoroughly. Check for business licensing, read customer reviews, and verify claims about incentives directly with your utility company or government agency. Reputable solar providers will always offer clear, detailed contracts and give you time to compare options.
Avoid making decisions under pressure. A trustworthy solar company will respect your need to review offers and seek multiple quotes. If a salesperson refuses to provide written documentation or pushes for an immediate commitment, consider it a red flag.
What’s Being Done to Stop Solar Scams?
Regulators and consumer protection groups are cracking down on deceptive solar sales.
Homeowners who encounter fraudulent practices should report them to the Better Business Bureau or the police. Some provinces are also implementing stricter licensing and disclosure laws to hold companies accountable and protect consumers from bad actors in the industry.
Final Thoughts: Stay Vigilant and Report Scams
Solar energy is a great option for homeowners looking to save on electricity, but only when the process is done right.
If a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Take the time to research, compare quotes, and work with a reputable installer. If you’ve encountered a solar scam, reporting it can help prevent others from falling victim to the same scheme.
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Have you or someone you know been approached by a suspicious solar salesperson? Have you received a quote from a door-to-door solar sales person and what a second opinion? Contact us.