Questions to Ask Before Signing a Solar Contract
By Solar Cost Predictor Team · July 28, 2026 · 7 min read
Beyond price, a solar contract involves warranty terms, financing structure, and what happens if the installer underperforms — questions worth resolving clearly before you sign, not discovering after.
Warranty Questions
What's the panel performance warranty (typically 25 years)? What's the workmanship warranty on the installation itself (ideally 10+ years, separate from the panel manufacturer's warranty)? What happens to your warranty if the installer goes out of business?
Production and Savings Guarantees
Does the installer guarantee a minimum production level, and what happens if your system underperforms it? Is the savings estimate based on your actual utility rate and usage, or a generic assumption?
Financing and Logistics Questions
What's the full APR and total cost over the loan term, not just the monthly payment? Who handles permitting and HOA approval — you or the installer? What's the expected timeline from contract to system turned on?
Frequently Asked Questions
What warranty should a solar installation come with?
Look for a 25-year panel performance warranty from the manufacturer and a separate 10+ year workmanship warranty from the installer covering the installation itself.
Should I ask about production guarantees?
Yes — some installers guarantee a minimum production level and compensate you if the system underperforms it, which is worth confirming before signing.
What happens to my warranty if my installer goes out of business?
Manufacturer warranties on the panels and inverter typically remain valid regardless of the installer's status, but workmanship warranties tied specifically to the installer may not — ask directly how this is handled.