- Post author:admin
- Post published:February 2, 2023
- Post category:Can-Am Roofing & Solar Of Central Florida LLC Blog
Key Takeaways:
- Homeowners interested in solar energy should be aware of the common solar scams associated with the industry.
- Some companies may use false advertising to lure customers into signing expensive financing contracts.
- Others may employ high-pressure sales tactics or make misleading claims about their products or services.
- Door-to-door selling and hidden fees are also red flags that a company may not be legitimate.
- Despite the potential risks, going solar comes with many benefits, including saving money on your energy bill, increased home value, and tax credits & incentives from state & local governments.
As a homeowner, you’re interested in learning how to save money on your energy bill. And if you’re considering adding solar panels to your home, you must know what benefits you could expect. But with all the scams, it’s also important to be careful and research before choosing a solar company. In this blog post, Can-Am Roofing of Central Florida, LLC will discuss some of the most typical solar scams and some unheard benefits of going solar. So read on to learn more & find the best option for you!
Solar Is on The Boom, But So Are the Scams!
The rapidly-growing demand for solar energy is great news for all Americans!
With the booming solar industry, you might encounter more false advertisements and solar scams.
While many reputable solar providers are out there, it’s still important to do your due diligence before committing to anyone. Many Facebook and other social media ads nowadays use enticing words like “low-cost” or “no upfront cost” to draw in lower and middle-class homeowners for solar programs.
Although it may be appealing to find a solar installation that costs close to nothing, many of these deals are advertised through false claims about special government programs or utility benefits. These non-existent offers make it difficult for customers genuinely interested in going solar with little money down. Thankfully, there are reliable financing products available from installers and solar companies that allow you to finance your equipment with no upfront cost.
Who’s Behind These Solar Scams?
They are typically based in completely different areas from their target communities. Private companies use false advertising to create “leads,” or customers who will probably buy what they sell.
After you fill out a sign-up form on one of these sites (usually to “see if you qualify”), a salesperson will contact you about solar loans or financing products.
Salespeople may tell you that a product has no upfront cost because of some “special government program.” While there are options for financing with no initial payment, they’re hardly ever special government programs. It’s more likely an aggressive sales tactic by a private company.
Do Not Fall for These Scams
Let’s go through the most common solar scams and how you can protect yourself.
1. False Advertising Scam
This type of scam usually involves a solar installation company advertising a deal that is too perfect to be true — like “free solar” or “zero money down.” The company will then try to sign you up for expensive financing contracts, requiring large payments over 20 years with high-interest rates. Don’t be fooled; there is no such thing as free solar!
2. High-Pressure Sales Tactics
Many solar companies will use heavy-handed sales tactics to get you to sign on the dotted line quickly. They may tell you that their offer is limited-time only or that they won’t be able to guarantee certain incentives if you don’t sign right away. Don’t let them pressure you into deciding before you’re ready. Solar is an investment that should be made carefully and wisely. Take your time researching the company and its offerings before signing anything.
3. Misleading Claims
Some solar companies may make misleading claims about their products or services to convince you to buy them. Always research and cross-check any information they provide with other sources before making any decisions. Check online reviews of the company and any industry associations they may be members of to verify their legitimacy.
4. Door-To-Door Selling
Solar companies may offer door-to-door sales to get consumers to sign up for their services. This is not a recommended way of doing business since it can be difficult to verify the legitimacy of the company or the quality of its products when they come directly to your home. Always take your time and research any offers before signing anything.
5. Hidden Fees
Some solar companies may charge hidden fees during installation, such as permit applications and related costs. Be sure to ask about any additional charges that may be imposed so that you know exactly what costs are involved before agreeing to anything. You might get pulled into a solar scam if you are not careful enough.
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