Remember: Well-intentioned companies will give you time to consider their offer. If a salesperson is pressuring you to make a decision on the spot, consider it a red flag.

How to avoid solar panel sales scams:

• Do your research. If you’re thinking about solar, be proactive and research trusted companies in advance at BBB.org. Don’t accept an unsolicited offer on the spot; instead, research the company to learn more about its reputation and business practices. Ask for a list of satisfied customers and look at customer reviews online.
• Know that the government won’t offer you free solar. The federal government does not install residential solar panels for free; if someone is claiming otherwise, it’s probably a scam.
• If it seems too good to be true, it probably is. If someone is promising that you’ll save huge amounts of money by installing solar panels, they might be exaggerating to make a sale. Research in advance to find out how much the panels will likely cost and how much they will realistically save you in energy costs. Request substantiation of the company’s claims.
• Don’t give in to high-pressure sales tactics. Scammers want you to make a snap decision without thinking it through. Remember that a reputable company would be happy to give you time to decide. If someone uses aggressive sales tactics on you, it’s best to decline the offer and cut contact.
• Get multiple quotes. Ask at least three companies for quotes based on the same requirements — BBB’s Get a Quote service can help you get quotes from BBB Accredited Businesses. The lowest bid might not be the best bid; extra-low prices could mean the contractor is cutting corners or doesn’t fully understand your needs.
• Ask questions. Ask for details about any aspect of a contract or proposal you don’t understand. If the company gets upset about your questions, refuses to answer them or is vague with their answers, consider it a red flag.
• Ask about a warranty. Ask the company if there is a warranty on the products and a guarantee on the installation in case of leaks, damage or other problems.
• Don’t pay in full before work is done. BBB frequently receives reports from customers who paid a large deposit or paid in full up front, only for the contractor to disappear. In some cases, a contractor may need a down payment to cover materials, but the bulk of the money should not be due until the work is completed.
• Report bad actors. If someone uses high-pressure tactics on you or you suspect a scam, report it to BBB Scam Tracker, the FTC or your state’s attorney general.