How to get three quotes and tell which one is honest
Every quote should state five numbers. If one is missing, ask for it before you compare anything else.
The five numbers
1. Price before incentives. 2. System size in kW (DC). 3. Estimated first-year production in kWh. 4. Equipment: panel, inverter and battery models. 5. Warranties: panels, inverters, workmanship and roof penetrations.
From these, work out price per watt and production per kW. Our quote check does it and flags anything unusual.
Red flags
A 30% federal tax credit on a system you would own. A production estimate far above independent models for your address. A system much bigger than your use without a reason. "Free solar." A price that is only good today. A salesperson who will not leave a written quote.
Choosing the installer
Ask how long they have been in business and who does the work: their own crews or subcontractors. Ask who handles warranty claims if they go out of business. Several large installers did between 2024 and 2026. Check the license with your state and read reviews older than the last month.
Watch: the best short video on this step
More in solar videos and resources.
Checklist for this step
- I have at least three written quotes
- Each quote states price, kW, first-year kWh, equipment and warranties
- I have checked each installer’s license and reviews
- I ran each quote through an independent check