If your solar installer went out of business, you've already been burned once. Choosing your next service provider carefully isn't paranoia — it's pattern recognition. Here's how to vet a solar service company properly, and the red flags that should send you running.
The non-negotiables
Active state contractor license
Every state that licenses contractors has a public lookup tool. Verify the license is active, matches the business name you're dealing with, and covers electrical or solar work. No license, no deal — period.
Insurance you can verify
Ask for a certificate of insurance showing general liability and workers' compensation. A legitimate company sends this without hesitation. If someone falls off your roof and the company isn't insured, that's your problem.
Relevant certifications
NABCEP certification is the gold standard for solar technicians in North America. Other meaningful credentials include InterNACHI (inspections) and manufacturer-specific certifications (Enphase, SolarEdge, Tesla) — those matter because manufacturers often require certified installers for warranty labor.
Signals of quality
- They'll service systems they didn't install. Companies confident in their diagnostics don't fear other installers' work.
- They put diagnostics before quotes. Anyone who quotes a repair price over the phone without seeing your system is guessing — with your money.
- Written reports with photos. Good pros document what they find and what they did. This paper trail protects your warranties and resale value.
- Experience with your equipment brands. Ask directly: "Have you worked on [your inverter brand] systems?"
- Age and reviews. Five-plus years in business and a consistent review history matter more than a flashy website. Look for reviews that mention service and repair specifically, not just installations.
Red flags
- Door-knockers and cold-callers claiming your system "needs inspection" or that they've "taken over" your old installer's customers. Legitimate transfers come with official documentation.
- Pressure tactics — "this price is only good today" has no place in solar service.
- Demands for large upfront payments. Diagnostic fees up front are normal; paying 100% before work starts is not.
- No physical address or license number on the website.
- Trash-talking everything about your existing system. Some upsell artists condemn healthy equipment. If someone says everything must be replaced, get a second opinion.
Questions to ask before hiring
- Are you licensed and insured in my state? (Then verify.)
- Who exactly will be on my roof — employees or subcontractors?
- Have you serviced systems from my original installer or with my equipment?
- Do you provide a written report with photos?
- Do you warranty your repair work, and for how long?
- Can you help with manufacturer warranty claims?
How My Solar Hope vets pros
Every professional in our directory is checked for active licensing, liability insurance, certifications, and verified customer reviews before listing. Verified-badge pros completed our full documentation review. We built this directory because homeowners who'd been burned once deserved better than a search engine roulette wheel.