What to Ask Before Signing a Solar Contract
The questions that turn a solar proposal into a decision you can stand behind.
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Before you sign a solar contract, you should be able to explain what is being installed, what you are paying for, what could change and who helps if something goes wrong. The goal is not to ask every possible question. It is to get the few answers that remove the costly assumptions.
Questions about the system
- What are the exact panel and inverter models, and what is the proposed system capacity?
- Why is this design suitable for my roof, electricity use and electrical setup?
- What annual generation is estimated, and what assumptions are used?
- How will I access monitoring after installation?
These answers establish what you are actually buying. They also make it easier to compare another proposal fairly.
Questions about scope and site conditions
- What does the quoted price include from survey through commissioning?
- What is excluded or priced separately?
- Could my roof, ceiling access, distribution board or cable route require additional work?
- How will a variation be approved before extra cost is incurred?
Do not assume that every home needs the same electrical or access work. The contract should explain how site-specific findings are handled.
Questions about approvals and timing
Ask who is responsible for each application and what documents you must provide. For eligible grid-connected systems, confirm that the provider is working from current programme guidance, not an outdated explanation. Ask for an indicative schedule, then distinguish the installer’s work from steps controlled by an authority or utility.
Questions about price and payment
- What is the total contract price and when is each payment due?
- What happens if there is a material site change?
- What deposit, cancellation or refund terms apply?
- Does any savings illustration depend on assumptions that may not match my household?
Payment should match documented milestones. Read the terms before paying to reserve a place in the installation queue.
Questions about warranties and support
- What are the panel product, panel performance, inverter and workmanship warranties?
- What maintenance, insurance or protection plans are included versus optional?
- Who do I contact if a component fails or monitoring shows an issue?
- Can the warranties transfer if I sell the home?
Ask for the claim process as well as the warranty periods. A clear support route is part of the value of the system.
The bottom line
Sign once the written documents give you a clear picture of the system, cost, scope and support. If an answer matters, it belongs in the paperwork.
Sources
- SEDA Malaysia: Home owners’ guide for solar PV
- SEDA Malaysia: NEM 3.0 guidance
- Verdant Solar residential proposal, version 10.
