‘$75K fix’: brutal warning over dodgy home solar
As Aussies rush to embrace the green energy revolution, all homeowners need to heed a few warnings first.
More Aussies are installing solar to create greener homes and curb energy prices, but experts warn “not all systems are equal” and dodgy installers pose huge risks to homeowners.
Founder and chief executive officer of RenewCo Solar Matthew Summerville said there were many great benefits to installing solar and battery, but warned there were some “cheap and nasty” companies giving the industry a bad name.
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“We looked after a client where the previous company had drilled into the roof and caused a water leak,” he said.
Mr Summerville said poor quality installation and products could end up costing people far more than their initial installation.
“It was a $46,000 installation and they were left to pay $75,000 in repairs because they used a subcontractor, the company went under and the client was left with no liability,” he said.
When it comes to batteries, Mr Summerville said he had seen poor installation cause fire risks and increase owners’ energy bills.
He said there are easy steps to avoid the “dodgy” and ensure a good installation.
“To spot the dodgy people you can see the one star google reviews,” he said.
“All companies make mistakes – but some make lots of really bad mistakes. Avoid them.”
“If you approach a company that is just trying to get a sale right off the bat without even seeing your place or what size system you need, that’s a big red flag.”
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Mr Summerville recommended Solar Quotes, a tool homeowners can use that pre-vet different solar companies.
He said an energy bill analysis and a sight inspection was also a must.
“A good experience includes getting the correct system that achieves the goals the client has,” he said.
Mr Summerville said that on average, a good installation would eliminate 80 per cent of electricity bills or up to 100 per cent when additionally installing a battery.
“A company that has in house installation teams is step one in the screening process,” he said.
“Installation teams that are tied to the companies licences and accreditations, mean it comes back on them if something goes wrong.”
He also advised avoiding subcontractors as they don’t have liability if the system is non-compliant.
Solar panels that look ugly and don’t fit with the aesthetic of the home, or have wiring on the outside, are also a “red flag”.
“A good installation will have no issues with roof integrity long term, and use a panel brand that has good warranty,” Mr Summerville said.
“If installed correctly, the whole system should have a 25 year minimum lifespan,”
Mr Summerville said middle to higher end systems would eliminate the risks.
“Realistically, it’s so cheap compared to any other home improvement,” he said.
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Originally published as ‘$75K fix’: brutal warning over dodgy home solar
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