News > What to Do if Your Solar Installer Goes Out of Business: A Guide for Homeowners

What to Do if Your Solar Installer Goes Out of Business: A Guide for Homeowners

• Solar United Neighbors

March 4, 2025

Investing in solar power is a big decision. It can offer great long-term benefits. However, one worry that many homeowners face is what to do if their solar installer goes out of business. Solar panel systems are complex. Proper maintenance, warranties, and support are key to maximizing your investment. So, what happens if the company that installed your system shuts down?

Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do if your solar installer goes out of business and how you can still protect your investment.

1. Don’t Panic: Your Solar Panels Will Keep Working

The good news is, your solar panels will still work if your installer goes out of business. Solar panels are built to last 25-30 years with minimal maintenance. They will still generate electricity even if the company that installed them is no longer around.

You may need to act to keep the system working over time, especially regarding warranties, repairs, or monitoring.

2. Locate Your System’s Documentation

Gather all the documentation related to your solar installation. This includes:

• The system design and layout
• Installation contract and payment receipts
• Manufacturer warranties for the panels, inverters, and other components
• Any third-party financing agreements, if applicable
• Copies of permits and inspection reports

These documents will be vital when seeking alternative support or warranty claims. If your installer provided an app or web portal, get the login credentials. You’ll need them to track the system’s performance.

3. Understand Your Warranty Coverage

When your installer goes out of business, it doesn’t necessarily mean your warranty disappears. There are two main types of warranties for solar systems:

• Manufacturer warranties: They cover the solar panels and inverters. The equipment makers, not the installer, usually provide them. Panel warranties often last 20-25 years. Inverter warranties usually last 5-15 years. You’ll need to contact the manufacturer directly if issues arise with your equipment.
• Workmanship warranties: This guarantees the quality of the installation. Unfortunately, if the installer is out of business, the warranty is likely void. In this case, you will need to hire a new solar installer to handle any potential workmanship issues.

If your system has a performance monitoring service, check who manages it. Is it the installer or a third-party platform?

4. Check for Local or Regional Successor Companies

In some cases, when solar companies go out of business, another company may acquire their assets, including customer contracts. This is often referred to as a “successor company.” Look for announcements or news that might indicate if your installer’s customers have been transferred to a new provider. If a successor company exists, they may honor existing service agreements or warranties.

5. Find a New Solar Service Provider

If no successor company is available, you’ll need to find a new solar service provider for future repairs, maintenance, or monitoring. Look for a company that offers:

• Service and maintenance plans: Some solar companies, even if they didn’t install your system, offer post-installation services. These include panel cleaning, inverter checks, and troubleshooting.
• Third-party monitoring services: If your installer managed your system, you can switch to third-party services to monitor its performance. Solar analytics companies offer services that allow you to track your energy production independently.

To find a reputable service provider, seek recommendations from local solar associations, online reviews, or neighborhood forums. Make sure the company you choose has experience working with the type of equipment you have.

6. Investigate State and Local Consumer Protections

In some cases, your state may offer consumer protections for situations like these. Some states require solar companies to post bonds to protect consumers if the company fails. Also, some state programs may help with warranty claims. They may assist with legal action if the installation was faulty.

Contact your state’s public utilities commission or local consumer protection office to find out if any laws protect you in this situation.

7. Explore Solar Insurance

If you’re worried about the risks of finding a new installer or maintaining your system, consider buying a solar insurance plan. Some insurers offer policies that cover solar panels. They cover maintenance, theft, and damage. They even cover lost revenue if your system fails.

Solar insurance can offer peace of mind, particularly in cases where you lose access to your original installer’s support.

If your solar installer goes out of business, it’s understandable to feel concerned. However, with a bit of preparation, you can ensure your system continues to perform effectively. Your solar panels will keep generating electricity. Most warranties will remain intact. To keep enjoying your solar investment, secure all docs. Then, find a new provider and explore local protections.

Contact SUN’s Help Desk for a list of installers that offer Operations & Maintenance. They may be willing to provide repair service in your area. You can also contact the Help Desk for information on SUN’s Inspection Program.