TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody on Tuesday warned residents not to fall victim to “deceptive” practices from solar companies.
Moody joined the Better Business Bureau for a news conference in Jacksonville.
“Home solar energy systems can present utility savings opportunities, but bad actors may use the enticement of big savings to secure large down payments with no intention of ever completing the solar installation process,” Moody said in a statement.
Moody said solar scams can cost thousands of dollars. She announced the creation of “Scams at a Glance: The Dark Side of Solar” to help consumers recognize and report fraudulent practices.
“The BBB has been working to develop a marketplace where buyers and sellers can trust each other for over 100 years,” BBB Northeast Florida President and CEO Tom Stephens said in a statement. “The celebration of National Consumer Protection Week is another step along that path.”
Some tips released by Moody include:
- Beware of solar companies advertising as being a government-affiliated entity
- Get quotes from several reputable companies and compare offers
- Know that not all consumers are eligible for rebates, incentives or other perks
- Be cautious of requests for large upfront payments or deposits
- Solar installations required a permit and inspections before connection
- Check the BBB for any complaints about the particular company
- Read all terms in the contract, pay attention to warranties/cancellation policies, payment schedules and hidden fees
- Ask for written copies of all contracts before signing
Consumers can download the resource in both English and Spanish.
Florida recently took action against three solar companies, including one based in Tampa that was the subject of a Better Call Behnken investigation.