GuideStep by step

My solar installer went bankrupt: a step-by-step guide

Thousands of homeowners have been left with "orphaned" solar systems as installers like Freedom Forever, Sunnova, Titan Solar and SunPower failed. Here's what you can do, based on court notices, news reports and consumer advocates.

1. Figure out what kind of contract you have

Cash: you own the system; repairs are on you, but manufacturer warranties still apply. Loan: you own it and owe a lender; keep paying the lender. Lease or PPA: a finance company owns the system and usually has service obligations under the contract; call them first.

2. Keep paying

The installer's bankruptcy does not cancel a separate loan, lease or PPA. The Titan Solar bankruptcy court's FAQ told customers to contact their financing company about how the bankruptcy affects them.

3. Use the manufacturer warranties

Panel, inverter and battery warranties come from the manufacturer. As Solar United Neighbors told ABC15, "most of that equipment should still have warranties from the manufacturer, and the manufacturer of that equipment should honor those warranties." Manufacturer support pages:

4. Call your inverter company

Every residential solar system has an inverter. The inverter company can often put you in touch with a local installer who can service your system.

5. Get your records

Collect your contract, permit number and final inspection (from your city or county), your utility interconnection approval, and your monitoring login. Installer portals often disappear.

6. Watch the bankruptcy deadlines

If the company is in bankruptcy, there may be a deadline to file a proof of claim for deposits or warranty losses. Each installer page lists the case and known deadlines.

7. File complaints where warranted

Your state attorney general and contractor licensing board take complaints. Some states have recovery funds for homeowners harmed by licensed contractors.

FAQ

My solar installer went bankrupt. Do I still have to pay my solar loan or lease?

Generally yes. An installer's bankruptcy does not cancel a loan, lease or PPA with a separate finance company. Keep paying as billed and contact the company that bills you. Court notices in the Titan Solar and Freedom Forever cases told customers to contact their financing company.

Are my panel and inverter warranties still good?

Usually. Panel, inverter and battery warranties are issued by the manufacturer, not the installer, so they are not cancelled by the installer's bankruptcy. The installer's own workmanship (labor and roof) warranty usually ends when the installer is liquidated.

Who can fix my system now?

Any licensed solar contractor. Your inverter manufacturer can often refer you to a certified local installer, and some local companies now offer service specifically for orphaned customers.

Where do I find my permit records?

Your city or county building department keeps the permit and final inspection record. Your utility keeps the interconnection (permission to operate) record.