Buying a Home with Solar? Here’s What You Need to Know

Key Questions to Ask Before Buying a Home with Solar

1. Is the Solar System Owned or Leased?

• Owned: If the system is owned outright by the seller, it will transfer with the home at no additional cost.

• Leased: If the system is leased, you may need to assume the lease and continue making payments. Be sure to review the lease agreement carefully to understand the terms, monthly costs, and duration.

• Financed: If the seller is still paying off a solar loan, you’ll need to clarify whether the balance will be paid off at closing or if you’ll need to take over payments.

2. How Old is the System?

Solar panels typically last 25–30 years, but inverters and batteries (if included) may need replacing sooner. Find out:
✅ Installation date
✅ Equipment brand and model
✅ Remaining warranty on panels and inverters

3. What Does the Warranty Cover?

• Are the panel warranties still valid and transferable?

• Is there a workmanship warranty from the original installer?

• What happens if the system needs repairs—will you be responsible for labor costs?

4. How Much Energy Does the System Produce?

Ask for past utility bills and system production reports to compare energy production versus household consumption. Keep in mind that a solar system is designed based on the previous homeowner’s energy use—your usage patterns may be different.

5. Does the Home Have Net Metering?

Net metering allows you to earn credits for excess energy sent to the grid. Check:
✅ If the home’s utility company offers net metering.
✅ What the current rate and policies are.

6. Who Installed the System?

Having the original installer’s contact information is helpful for future maintenance and warranty claims. If they are no longer in business, research local solar companies that service the brand of equipment installed.

Steps to Take After Buying a Home with Solar

✅ 1. Transfer the Warranty & Monitoring Access

• Contact the manufacturer and installer to transfer warranties into your name (if applicable).

• Get access to the solar monitoring portal to track energy production.

✅ 2. File an Interconnection Application with the Utility

Even though the solar system is already installed and operational, the Permission to Operate (PTO) is tied to the previous homeowner’s utility account. As the new homeowner, you must:

• File an interconnection application with your utility company.

• Provide proof of homeownership and the existing solar agreement.

• Wait for the utility to grant PTO under your name before receiving net metering benefits.

Failure to transfer the PTO could result in billing issues or a temporary disconnection of solar credits, so be sure to complete this step as soon as possible!

✅ 3. Verify System Performance

• Check the inverter and monitoring system to ensure everything is functioning properly.

• Compare solar production data to past utility bills.

• Schedule an independent solar system audit for peace of mind.

✅ 4. Understand Your Utility Bill

Your first bill will help you determine how much energy you’re still purchasing from the grid. If your usage is higher than expected, consider:

• Adjusting usage habits to better align with solar production.

• Checking for shading issues (e.g., overgrown trees blocking sunlight).

✅ 5. Learn About Maintenance Needs

While solar systems require minimal upkeep, periodic maintenance ensures longevity:

• Clean panels occasionally if dirt or debris accumulate.

• Monitor system performance for unexpected drops in production.

• If you have a battery, check its warranty and lifespan.

Thinking About Buying a Home with Solar? Let Us Help!

Before committing to a solar-equipped home, it’s essential to understand the system’s ownership, warranties, and expected performance. At Solar GuidePro, we provide independent solar reviews to help homebuyers feel confident in their purchase.

🔹 Need a system review? Contact us today for a professional assessment!

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