Florida Homeowners & Solar Scams: What You Need To Know

AI-Picture Solar Scams SalesmanPhoto byOCMM

Solar scams are on the rise, with more homeowners being deceived and taken advantage of by unscrupulous companies and fraudulent salespeople.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. As the demand for solar energy continues to rise, so does the number of solar scams targeting unsuspecting homeowners. Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody has issued a warning about the "Dark Side of Solar" scams, urging Floridians to remain watchful and take necessary precautions to avoid falling victim to these deceitful practices.

In a recent announcement during National Consumer Protection Week, Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody issued a stern warning to residents about the increasing prevalence of solar energy scams. The initiative, titled "Scams at a Glance: The Dark Side of Solar," aims to educate Floridians on how to identify, avoid, and report fraudulent practices in the solar energy market.

As Florida continues to embrace renewable energy, particularly solar power, opportunistic scammers have seized on the trend to exploit unsuspecting homeowners. These fraudsters often pose as representatives from legitimate solar companies or government agencies, using high-pressure sales tactics and false claims to convince residents to sign costly contracts or hand over sensitive personal information.

The Growing Threat of Solar Scams
As solar energy becomes more popular in the Sunshine State, so do the scams associated with it. Attorney General Moody highlighted that while solar energy systems offer significant utility savings, they also attract bad actors who exploit consumers' desire for sustainable energy solutions. These scammers often secure large down payments with no intention of completing the installation process, leaving consumers out of pocket and without the promised solar benefits.

How to Avoid Solar Scams
To help Floridians protect themselves, the Attorney General's office has provided several key tips:

• Beware of False Affiliations: Be cautious of solar companies that claim to be affiliated with the government or utility companies. Always verify such claims independently.
• Deceptive Free Solar Panel Ads: Be wary of ads promising free solar panels, as they may come with hidden costs or long-term contracts.
• Fake Government Programs: Scammers claim to represent non-existent government solar initiatives, offering "free" solar panels or unrealistic tax incentives.
• Utility Company Impersonation: Verify the authenticity of salespeople claiming to work with your utility company.
• Get Multiple Quotes: Obtain quotes from several reputable solar companies and compare their offers. This helps ensure you are getting a fair deal.
• Understand Eligibility: Not all consumers will qualify for rebates, utility incentives, or other perks. Be wary of companies that promise universal eligibility.
• Avoid Large Upfront Payments: Be cautious of companies that demand large upfront payments or deposits. Legitimate companies typically have more balanced payment schedules.
• Check Permits and Inspections: Ensure that all solar installations have the necessary permits and inspections before they are connected to the utility grid.
• Research Companies: Contact the Better Business Bureau to check for any complaints against a company. Read reviews and verify credentials and certifications.
• Read Contracts Carefully: Pay close attention to warranties, cancellation policies, payment schedules, and any hidden fees in the contract. Always ask for written copies to review before signing.

What to Do If You Get Scammed
If you suspect that you have fallen victim to a solar scam, there are several steps you can take:

• Report the Scam: Contact the Florida Attorney General's Office at 1-866-9-NO-SCAM (1-866-966-7226) or file a complaint online at MyFloridaLegal.com.
• Seek Legal Counsel: Consider consulting with a lawyer to explore your options for recovering lost funds and taking legal action against the fraudulent company.
• Contact the BBB: File a complaint with the Better Business Bureau to help warn other consumers and potentially resolve the issue through their dispute resolution services.
• Stay Informed: Keep up to date with the latest consumer protection resources and tips from the Attorney General's office and other reputable sources.

Forward Together
The rise of solar energy scams in Florida is a concerning trend that underscores the importance of consumer vigilance. By staying informed and following the tips provided by Attorney General Ashley Moody, Floridians can better protect themselves from falling prey to these deceptive practices. Remember, a little caution and research can go a long way in ensuring that your investment in solar energy is both safe and beneficial.

As the solar industry continues to grow in Florida, authorities urge residents to remain cautious and informed. By following these guidelines and reporting suspicious activity, Floridians can help combat solar scams while supporting the state's transition to renewable energy.

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