It’s being called “The Dark Side of Solar” as the latest scam hitting the state.
With National Consumer Protection Week going on, Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody held a news conference in Jacksonville with the Better Business Bureau, outlining new information to protect homeowners from when purchasing solar energy systems. The AG is calling it the roofing scam.
Her office says some companies are telling Floridians that they are eligible for government rebates, utility incentives and other appealing perks. But Moody says buyer beware.
“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 and its costing Florida consumers thousands of dollars,” Moody said.
Moody’s office has already filed legal actions against three solar companies for alleged deceptive and unfair trade practices.
The three companies are: MC Solar and Roofing: A Tampa-based solar company that allegedly scammed hundreds of consumers, including seniors, persons with disabilities and veterans. Attorney General Moody filed a lawsuit after receiving reports that the company abandoned contracts, damaged homes and forged applications. The company also allegedly filed liens on homes and even threatened consumers with legal action, despite the fact that many consumers never received a working solar system.
SetUp My Solar: The owners of this company allegedly used high-pressure sales tactics and misrepresented to consumers the possible savings, quality of equipment and potential tax rebates for purchasing systems. Consumers reported the company failed to complete or properly install systems, causing failed inspections and damage to consumers’ homes. The defendants also allegedly bundled the solar equipment with additional items, such as water heaters and air conditioning units, without having the proper licenses and permits required for installation.
Vision Solar: This company sold solar panels to hundreds of consumers, allegedly promising solar energy benefits and certain timelines for project completion. Consumers instead reported experiencing extensive delays and damage. The company also allegedly failed to successfully complete the permit requirements in setting up consumers’ solar grids, resulting in more delays for the customers.
Here are some red flags Moody’s office says consumers need to be on the lookout when approached by companies selling solar panels.
Beware of solar companies advertising as being a government-affiliated entity.
Get quotes from several reputable solar companies and compare offers.
Be cautious of companies requesting large upfront payments or deposits.
Understand that all solar installations require a permit and inspection before the system can be connected to the utility company.
Contact the Better Business Bureau to see if any complaints have been filed about a certain company,
Read and understand all terms in the contract. Pay attention to warranties, cancellation policies, payment schedules and any hidden fees; and
Ask for written copies of all contracts to review prior to signing.
Recent legal actions taken by Attorney General Moody against deceptive solar businesses include.
To report a solar scam, contact the Florida Attorney General’s Office at 1(866) 9NO-SCAM or online at MyFloridaLegal.com.
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