Choosing the right solar contractor plays a major role in the process of going solar. The installer you hire will affect everything from your system’s long-term performance to how smoothly the permitting process goes. In San Luis Obispo County, where homes, energy needs, and regulations vary widely, asking the right questions upfront can make all the difference.
At A.M. Sun Solar + Roofing, we believe in empowering people with solar knowledge. Here are five critical questions to ask before signing a contract with any solar company:
1. Are you licensed, bonded, and insured in California?
Why it matters:
Solar installations must meet strict safety and building codes, and only licensed professionals can pull permits, work with utility companies, and ensure systems are installed properly. Hiring a contractor without the right credentials could leave you unprotected and stuck with costly repairs.
Depending on their answer:
- If they say “yes” and can provide their California CSLB license number (C-10 or C-46), it’s a good sign they operate legitimately.
- If they’re vague or can’t show proof, that’s a major red flag.
- If they subcontract unlicensed labor, it might result in subpar workmanship or failed inspections.
2. Do you handle local permitting, utility and rebate paperwork?
Why it matters:
San Luis Obispo has its own unique set of requirements for going solar. It may mean dealing with unique building codes, HOAs, and PG&E requirements. A good contractor will manage these details so you don’t have to.
Depending on their answer:
- If they take care of it, that shows experience and local know-how. It also saves you from frustrating delays.
- If they say it’s up to you, expect to spend hours sorting through paperwork and potential rejections.
- If they seem unfamiliar with Central Coast permitting, they might be an out-of-town installer, unfamiliar with local regulations.
It’s best to work with a solar contractor familiar with your local area, like A.M. Sun Solar + Roofing. The headache this can save is well worth the couple of minutes to search for a business local to your area.
3. What kind of warranty do you offer and who backs it?
Why it matters:
Solar is a long-term investment. You want to know who’s responsible if something goes wrong with your system, your roof, or your inverter, 5 or even 10 years from now.
Depending on their answer:
- If they offer clear workmanship warranties (typically 10+ years) and manufacturer-backed equipment warranties, you’re covered.
- If they only mention panel warranties, but not labor or roof penetration, that’s a gap.
- If they rely on third-party installers or disappear after installation, future service might be a headache.
At A.M. Sun Solar + Roofing, we stand behind our work with a 12-year workmanship warranty. For our clients with online monitoring, we may be alerted in the event of a system failure, allowing our in-house warranty specialist to respond quickly, getting to work on a solution to the problem. Because with us, you’re always covered.
4. Do you custom design each solar system?
Why it matters:
Every home on the Central Coast is different. We all get different coastal fog patterns, roof angles, and levels of shading. A cookie-cutter system might not meet your energy needs or qualify for net metering.
Depending on their answer:
- If they use advanced design tools, assess your roof, and tailor the system to your usage, you’ll maximize your return.
- If they pitch the same system to everyone, they’re likely prioritizing volume over quality.
- If they can’t explain how your system offsets your bill, you should keep looking.
5. What are your financing options?
Why it matters:
Solar financing can involve loans, leases, power purchase agreements (PPAs), and tax incentives. Choosing the wrong structure can mean you save far less than expected.
Depending on their answer:
- If they walk you through options and help you compare long-term costs, they have your best interest in mind.
- If they push one option without explanation, it probably benefits them more than you.
- If they skip over incentives like the Federal Tax Credit, they might not be fully up to speed or not care about your bottom line.
At A.M. Sun Solar + Roofing, we provide transparent pricing and financing options. Review our financing options to see what makes the most sense for you.
6. Why are you trustworthy?
Why it matters:
A solar installation is a long-term relationship, not a one-time project. When your first electric bill arrives and you have questions, you want a company that will pick up the phone, respond to a text, or welcome you into the office. Trustworthy contractors don’t disappear once the panels are on your roof.
- Depending on their answer:
If they’ve been around for years and have a local office, that’s a great sign they’ll be there when you need them. - If they promise support but can’t explain how you’ll reach them, that’s a concern.
- If they outsource service or customer support, it might be hard to get help when it matters most.
At A.M. Sun Solar + Roofing, we’ve been serving the Central Coast since 2001. Our team is local, and so is our support. Our long history and reputation in San Luis Obispo County are built on always showing up for our customers.
Why Choose A.M. Sun Solar + Roofing?
At A.M. Sun Solar + Roofing, we pride ourselves on providing expert solar and roofing installations and top-tier service at the best pricing in SLO County. We’re committed to delivering the highest-quality service while keeping your budget in mind.
Contact A.M. Sun Solar + Roofing today to schedule your solar consultation and start your savings today. Serving San Luis Obispo County and the surrounding areas, we are here to help you protect your home year-round.
Connect with us today at hello@amsunsolar.com, (805) 772-6786, or fill out the form below to get a FREE ESTIMATE with one of our friendly solar & roofing experts.
