Residential Solar System Quotes
Solar system quotes can be overwhelming. There are many different configurations and a lot of prices to compare! In this blog post, we want to take you through what you will typically see on a solar quote to know exactly what is being offered and how it is priced before deciding.
Usually, a quote will cover the hardware components of the system that are being proposed for use. These include the solar panels themselves and the inverter that will send the electricity to your home. It is essential to understand these components covered by the quote and whether there are alternatives. The elements that make up your system will significantly affect how much power you get and what options are available to you when it comes time for maintenance.
The hardware items should be individually listed on the quote, and additional manufacturers information may also be provided separately.
Typically, the installation costs are covered next in a quote. They may be broken down into the hardware, parts required, and the estimated labour charges to install the system.
At this point, there may be some additional installation notes around specific activity required that is unique to your property and so will likely not have been covered in the initial consultation with your sales representative. It is important to note all of the specific requirements of your project in this section of the quote to avoid misunderstandings later in the process.
An excellent service provider might dedicate a section of the quote to highlight additional included items such as travel (necessary for regional areas), inspection fees, extra labour (should something unexpected occur) and network lines applications.
Following this section, you may also find a section on “Exclusions” – those essential parts of the install process that the installation company cannot carry out. Electricity metre installation, wifi connectivity or any number of steps that the installer cannot control should be listed here with expectations set around responsibilities and task management of these exclusions.
You should also expect to see warranties or guarantees that come with specific products included in quotes. If an inverter, for example, has a warranty of 25 years, then this should be listed somewhere within the quote, so you know what product is covered by the warranty and the length of time it covers.
Below this could also be information about any financing plans being offered by the company.
A company will also use a quote to upsell. It might offer you a higher-performing piece of hardware or a more extended warranty for additional costs – evaluate each of these on their merits.
Separate from the quote document or on the reverse side, you will typically find a set of standard terms and conditions. You should read this document thoroughly. You should make sure you understand the terms and conditions and seek legal advice if you are unsure of the content or meaning of these items listed.
A solar system installed on your property is a sizeable commercial decision and should not be taken lightly – make sure to research all of your options before settling on one, and where possible, consider getting more than one quote from a variety of suppliers.
