10 Tips for Hiring a Contractor

Hiring a contractor to install a PV system on your home or business is a major decision. The following tips will help you find the best contractor for your installation.

1. Hire only licensed contractors
Check any California based contractor's license number by visiting www.cslb.ca.gov.

We cater to all 50 states. If outside California, please contact your local state licensing board for more information. Most states are the same or similar to the California State Contractor License Board.

2. Hire insured contractors
Always insist upon a certificate of insurance for general liability insurance. Uninsured workers who are injured on the job can file damage claims against the homeowner.

3. Verify Workers' Compensation Insurance
California requires this form of insurance for any employer with one or more employees. If your contractor is exempt from the workers' compensation requirement, it means any workers on the job must belong to another subcontractor who is insured.

4. Get references
Always get at least three references from previous customers of the contractor, and review past work.

5. Get multiple bids
Get three (3) bids and use a written plan, so you can compare apples to apples.

6. Get a thorough written contract before any work begins
Any work valued at over $500 requires a contract. In the contract, be sure to specify the start and completion dates of the job, and insist on a progressive payment schedule that is spelled out in dollars and cents. If you're going to spend thousands of dollars, consider investing another $200 to have an attorney review your contract for your protection.

7. Never sign a contract under pressure
Insist on at least 48 hours to study any contract.

8. Pay as you go
To start a job, never pay more than 10% down or $1,000--whichever is less. Hold back 10% for the final payment after the entire job is complete. Never pay for work before it is done.

9. Never pay cash
Pay by check or credit card.

10. Keep a job file
Put receipts, permits, plans and anything else pertaining to your job in a file.

Source: California Contractors State Licensing Board

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