What to compare between companies
Get at least two or three written quotes and compare the same items across proposals. Look for: system size (kW) and estimated annual production, equipment makes and models (panels and inverters), a clear price breakdown (equipment, labor, permits), and the assumed utility rates used to estimate savings. Check whether the installer provides a site survey and a production estimate based on your roof’s orientation, shading, and tilt. Also compare company reputation: local references, online reviews, licensing, and how they handle service after installation. You’ll often see names like Sunrun, ION Solar, or Momentum Solar in the Austin market; treat those names the same as any local firm—compare their proposals on the same criteria rather than assuming a brand guarantee.
Sustainability trends and local incentives to check
Sustainability is driving interest in solar-plus-battery systems and in adding storage later. Ask installers whether the proposed system can accommodate batteries now or down the road, and how that changes permitting and roof attachments. Check current incentives before you sign: federal tax credits change over time, and local utilities and municipalities sometimes offer rebates or specific interconnection rules. For example, Austin Energy has its own policies and programs that can affect economics and approval timelines. Incentives, availability, and program rules depend on your exact address, your utility, your roof, and financing choices, so verify what applies to your property.
Key contract items to verify before signing
Review the contract line by line. Verify the exact equipment (brand and model), estimated annual production and how it’s calculated, and who is responsible for manufacturer and installer warranties. Confirm the payment schedule and any conditions for final payment, plus who holds permits and handles inspections. Make sure the contract specifies who will apply for interconnection with your utility and what happens if there are delays. Look for a clear cancellation policy, and ask whether system monitoring is included and who handles maintenance calls. Don’t sign until you have a written start date and an estimated completion window; timelines depend on permitting, supply, and installer workload.
Red flags and tradeoffs to consider
Watch for vague proposals without equipment specs, high-pressure timelines, or contractors unwilling to provide local references. Very low prices can mean lower-quality panels or shortcuts on installation—there’s a tradeoff between price and long-term reliability. Adding batteries improves outage resilience but adds complexity and cost; ask how that affects warranties and service. If a company offers financing, compare the total cost and who services the loan. Finally, check roof condition before committing: a roof that needs replacing shortly after installation can add cost and hassle.