CCSE recommends evaluating at least three (3) different contractors.
* Check references.
* Examine customer feedback.
* Check status of Contractor License at www.cslb.ca.gov. License must be active in order for them to be eligible.
* For details on projects within the California Solar Initiative, see csi.powerclerk.com, and open the CSI Program Data (some knowledge of Excel and sorting/filtering required).
The following website contains information about solar contractors. CCSE does not endorse any of the vendors listed.
Consumers...
For information on what you should know before you hire a contractor, the California Contractors State License Board offers the following tips:
- Don't pay more than 10 percent or $1,000, whichever is less, as a down payment.
- Hire only licensed contractors and ask to see their license.
- Don't hire the first contractor who comes along.
- Don't rush into repairs, no matter how badly they're needed.
- Verify the contractor's license at the Contractors State License Board www.cslb.ca.gov or 1-800-321-2752.
- Don't pay cash, and don't let the payments get ahead of the work.
- Get three bids, check references, and get a written contract.
For more detailed information and a handbook on how to hire a contractor, please visit the California Contractors State License Board's website at: www.cslb.ca.gov/consumers/beforehiring.asp
