Five (5) things you need to do before you sign on the dotted line...

- Some tips to inform potential purchasers of solar energy systems

So, you have decided (or are considering) converting your home to Solar Power. Now comes the pointy end of the adventure: hiring a Solar Installer. Here are FIVE tips on picking a ‘Good Solar Power Installer’ to help you on your way. You can find a list of accredited installers by Googling ‘BCSE Accredited Installers’.

TIP 1: Make a Plan

Create a plan of changes that you wish to make to your home. You will be providing this plan to each of the solar power contractors you will be visiting. This is to ensure you will be showing the same base-line information to each contractor so you can get a better understanding of what work that will be provided. The basics will be identifying a shade-free location on the roof for installation of the solar panels, approximate cable runs, planned location of the inverter, and location of the meterbox. It would be helpful to tell the installer the type of roof (ie tile/tin/sloped/flat) and how high the house is.

TIP 2: Write Everything Down

Expect questions about the job from the solar power contractor. Be sure to write down each question and your responses. Take special note of any concerns they may have about the job. These questions may help you reveal their level of expertise. Before you visit or telephone your first contractor, create a list of questions to ask each one. Don't worry about getting similar answers, as this will help you compare them - again revealing their level of expertise.

Some questions to consider:

How long have you been doing Solar Power installations?

How many solar power systems have you installed?

Have you PERSONALLY completed an installation similar to the one I've requested? If so, please provide me with examples of your work.

How long will it take to get your written estimate and complete the work?

How do you price your work? Are there any 'extras'? (a great many extras is probably not a good sign)

Do you use government certified solar components?

Do you provide a warranty on parts and labor?

How will your warranty save me money into the future?

Do you and your employees actually complete the work or do you hire subcontractors? (NOTE:- many companies just ring around till they find someone in your area, in many cases they have never even MET the installer)

How and when do you clean up?

Do you process my rebates?

Are you certified for solar power home system installations?

TIP 3: Pick Your Solar Power Contractor Carefully

After interviewing a number of solar power contractors, make a 'best of' list. To do this, use the notes you took during the visits, compare answers and make sure your most important questions have been answered. This will take some time so do not rush this step, as it is extremely important. Once you have picked a solar power contractor that has the technical ability for your installation, be sure that you have a good rapport with them as this can also affect your project success.

TIP 4: One More Set of Checks

Verity your chosen contractors credentials, licensing and always check the Office of Fair Trading, CHOICE or Better Business Bureau (BBB) for any issues with this contractor.

TIP 5: Follow Up After You Have Picked a Solar Power Contractor

Before signing with the solar power contractor of your choice, call and be sure to ask any final questions and request a written price list, schedule, quality and warranty agreement. As the rebate process progresses, you may wish to call to check up on progress – this growth industry means that many companies are extremely busy.