Free Resource
Florida Solar Buyer's Guide
New to solar? Browse or download our complete guide covering types of solar, how to choose an installer, what to look for in a contract, and your rights as a Florida homeowner.
FlaSEIA is dedicated to empowering Florida homeowners with the knowledge and resources to make confident solar decisions. Our Consumer Protection Directory helps you verify that your sales consultant understands Florida's licensing and contract disclosure requirements. When you're ready to move forward, search the FlaSEIA Member Directory to find licensed, vetted solar professionals serving your area of Florida.
Step 1
Does Solar Make Sense For Me?
Before meeting with any contractor, consider these three questions:
1. Does my roof get enough sunlight?
South facing is best but west and east also work well. A home completely shaded by trees may not be suited for solar. A contractor can provide a free analysis of your home's potential.
2. How much money will I save?
Savings vary based on your electricity costs, system size, and available sunlight. A reputable contractor will provide a detailed estimate based on your actual energy usage.
3. Do I need a new roof first?
If your roof is older and may need replacing within 1–5 years, it's a good idea to install a new roof before adding solar. Removing and reinstalling panels down the road can be an additional expense.
Step 2
Types of Solar & Benefits
Solar Electric (PV)
Photovoltaic systems convert sunlight directly into electricity to power your home.
Solar Thermal
Solar thermal systems use the sun's heat to warm swimming pools and water heaters.
Why Floridians choose solar:
- Energy security, resiliency, and independence during and after disasters
- Lower, more predictable utility bills
- Tax-free return on investment
- Reduces the need for new power plants and infrastructure
- The most effective energy efficiency resource available to Floridians
Step 3
Preparing for Contractor Interviews
Before you meet with a solar contractor, it's helpful to know the answers to these questions:
- What are your goals? Is solar an investment, a way to save immediately, or about energy independence and resiliency?
- What is your monthly energy consumption (kWh)? Gather 12 months of utility bills before your first meeting.
- How will you pay? Decide if you'll finance, pay cash, or lease. Note: leasing does not provide tax benefits.
Step 4
Questions to Ask Your Florida Solar Installer
Start with these questions before you sign anything. Use the additional tips below to gain more valuable insights.
1. What is your Florida contractor license number?
State law requires a Florida contractor license to contract with a homeowner. For solar, look for a license beginning with CVC or EC. Verify at myfloridalicense.com. If the company name on the salesperson's card doesn't match the contract, that's a red flag.
2. How long have you been installing solar in Florida? What is your Florida office address?
Experience and a local presence matter. Verify the company's history at sunbiz.org.
3. How many solar installations has your company completed?
A proven track record of completed installations demonstrates reliability and expertise.
4. Do you service and support the equipment you install? What are the warranties?
Ask for warranties on both materials and workmanship. Understand what is and isn't covered.
5. Who will actually be installing my solar panels?
Are they employees or a licensed subcontractor? Request proof of general liability and workers' compensation insurance for both the contractor and any subcontractor.
6. Can I see a completed installation near where I live?
Ask for references from homeowners in your area. A confident installer will be happy to connect you with satisfied customers.
7. What permits are required and who handles them?
Florida law requires a contractor to apply for a permit within 30 days and start work within 90 days if they collect more than 10% of the contract upfront.
8. If I'm financing, what are the lender's contact details?
Get your lender's or lessor's contact information and read your loan or lease agreement carefully before signing.
The Florida Solar Buyer's Guide includes an expanded checklist of questions and what to look for in the answers.
Download the GuideStep 5
Additional Tips Before Signing a Contract
- Get multiple quotes. Speaking with two or more companies lets you compare energy production estimates, features, and pricing.
- Read the entire contract, including fine print and addendums. Understand the terms for cancellation, payment schedule, and what happens if costs increase.
- Know your right to cancel. If you purchase during a "home solicitation sale," you have a three-day right to cancel.
- Understand battery backup. Some systems power your whole home; others only power a portion. Work with your contractor to understand exactly what your system will do during an outage. Note: without battery storage, your home will lose power during a utility outage even with solar.
- Any additional services (tree removal, panel upgrades, etc.) must be written into the contract with pricing. "Free" or "included" items should also be in writing.
- Check your homeowner's insurance. Ask your agent whether your system is covered without an additional rider. Systems over 11.6 kW (Tier 2) may require up to $1 million in liability coverage.
- Florida law requires consumer protection forms under Chapter 520 Part II. Your contract must include these as an addendum — you must sign and receive a copy. Review the statute here. View sample disclosure forms (PDF).
Watch Out for False or Exaggerated Claims
"You can get free solar at no cost to you."
Solar energy is free — the equipment is not. If you finance the system, you won't have an upfront cost, but you will have ongoing loan or lease payments.
"You will never pay an electricity bill again."
After going solar, you'll typically pay a lower electricity bill. If you have a loan or lease, you'll also receive a monthly payment from that provider — but the combined total is often lower than your previous utility bill.
"Time is running out — you must sign today."
Take your time. A reputable installer will never pressure you to sign on the spot. Make sure you fully understand what you're buying and every term in the contract.
Who Needs a License to Sell & Install Solar?
Florida requires state certification for any solar contractor who contracts with a homeowner for installation, alteration, repairs, maintenance, or replacement of any solar system. Look for a license beginning with CVC or EC.
To verify a contractor's license: visit myfloridalicense.com and search by license number or company name. You can also report unlicensed activity here.
All FlaSEIA contractor members are required to hold an active contractor's license and carry general liability and workers' compensation coverage.
Florida Solar Rights Law — 163.04 Florida Statutes
Florida law forbids ordinances, deed restrictions, covenants, or similar agreements from prohibiting solar equipment use. A homeowner may not be denied permission to install a solar collector or other renewable energy device by any HOA or similar entity.
While an HOA may determine where on the roof panels are installed, they cannot impose requirements that impair the system's performance or significantly increase installation costs. Requirements that effectively block south/east/west facing installations, or demand screening that reduces output, are contrary to the law.
Step 6
After You Sign the Contract
Here's what to expect from signing to turning on your system:
Permits
Permits must be pulled before construction begins. Make sure your contractor posts the permit at your home and has you sign a Notice of Commencement.
Plan/Design Review
Review the contractor's final designs or permitted plan set before construction to ensure everything matches your contract.
Construction
Installation typically takes 1–2 days depending on system size and complexity.
Inspection
The system must pass inspection by the city or county after construction. You can get proof of a passed inspection from your contractor or local government.
Notice to Owner (NTO)
If you receive a Notice to Owner, require a release or paid receipt from the material provider before final payment — otherwise you could end up with a lien or paying twice.
Permission to Operate (PTO)
Your utility must approve turning on the system via an interconnection or net metering agreement. Most contractors help with this process.
Ready to Find a Solar Installer?
Explore FlaSEIA member companies — professional, licensed solar installers across Florida who have agreed to the FlaSEIA Code of Ethics.
Search the FlaSEIA Member Directory →Solar Glossary
New to solar terminology? Here are key terms you'll encounter.