Don't just take the cheapest and other expert tips to find the best solar installer
Hundreds of thousands of Australians are installing solar batteries, but there's also been a spike in consumer complaints. Here's what the experts say you should consider when deciding which company to use.
Finding a reliable solar installation company can be a daunting task with so many options available. While the cheapest quote may seem tempting, it often leads to subpar installations that can be costly to fix later. The Albanese government's Cheaper Home Batteries Program has boosted the demand for solar installations, but this surge has also resulted in several alarming cases of poor installations and company failures.
Complaints to consumer protection agencies have risen, leading to clogged courts and tribunals. To avoid such issues, Solar Choice's Jeff Sykes and Finn Peacock from Solar Quotes, two leading comparison sites, offer valuable tips for consumers to make informed decisions.
Seeking quotes from at least three different companies is recommended. Companies offering unusually low prices might be using low-quality materials or employing cheap installation crews, which could result in product failures or system issues. Rogue operators may sign up numerous customers and disappear once the bills arrive. Using the Australian Business Number platform can help consumers verify a company's history and avoid those that have gone bankrupt and restarted under a new name.
Instead of relying solely on glowing reviews, pay attention to the harsh ones. One-star reviews can provide crucial insights into how a company handles issues. If a company refuses to address complaints or blames the customer, this could be a red flag. Also, be cautious of companies boasting high review scores, as they might be using dishonest methods to boost their ratings, such as encouraging fake reviews or removing negative ones.
It's essential to verify the company's accreditation and the installers' credentials, as they vary by state and territory. Solar Accreditation Australia and the New Energy Tech Consumer Code (NETCC) provide lists of approved installers, as well as those suspended or expelled. Before paying the deposit, ensure the warranty details are in writing and avoid making promises about installation dates over the phone. Paying with a credit card can offer protection if problems arise.
Written by urgent.news from ABC News AU's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
