Signed at your home in the last few days? Federal law gives you 3 business days to cancel most at-home sales. Get the free letter
All 50 states • Free, private intake • Not a law firm
Home / Solar Problems
Solar problems
Common solar problems and how to fix them
From systems that never turned on to ignored warranties, surprise filings and vanished installers: the most common problems and your next steps.
Last verified October 9, 2026
Free Solar Contract Review
Free, confidential review. Takes about 60 seconds.
Your information is private and handled as described in our privacy policy.
The short answer: The most common solar problems are systems that underproduce or never get turned on, roof leaks, ignored warranties, loan payments that jump, UCC-1 filings that surface at closing and installers that disappear. Most are fixed, or turned into leverage, the same way: document everything in writing and get your paperwork reviewed. Some states now add specific protections; check your state’s rules.
Key takeaways
- Document every problem with dates and photos.
- Put every service request in writing.
- Payment jumps and filings often surface later.
- Manufacturer warranties may outlast the installer.
- Keep paying while problems are resolved.
On this page
The most common problems
System never turned on
Payments started before the utility approved the system to operate.
System underproduces
Compare monitoring data with the proposal month by month.
Roof leaks or storm damage
Document it and notify the company in writing.
Installer disappeared
Your agreement usually continues; find who services it now.
Monitoring went dark
Report it in writing and note the date.
Loan payment jumped
Check the prepayment terms in your loan documents.
Lien at sale or refinance
Check county records for a UCC-1 filing.
Warranty requests ignored
Put every request in writing.
How to document a problem
- Write down when it started and how you noticed.
- Take dated photos or screenshots.
- Send service requests in writing and save replies.
- Keep the contract, notices and warranties together.
Problem the company won't fix?
A free intake reviews your contract and documentation.
When problems become leverage
Ignored warranties, misrepresented performance and missing disclosures can support claims under state consumer protection laws, and the Holder Rule can carry claims to a lender. See how to cancel a solar contract.
Common questions
Solar problem FAQs
What if my system produces less than promised?
Document the shortfall and request service in writing.
What if the company ignores my warranty?
Put requests in writing and request a review.
Why did my loan payment go up?
Many loans re-amortize around month 19.
Do I still owe if my installer is gone?
Usually yes, but the Holder Rule may help.
Find out where your solar contract stands
Free, private and built around federal and state law. Takes about a minute.
Solar Cancellation HQ is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. This page is general information, and reading it or submitting a form does not create an attorney-client relationship. Not every contract qualifies, and no outcome is guaranteed. We never advise anyone to stop making payments on a solar loan, lease or PPA. Laws and utility rules change, so verify before acting. Last verified October 9, 2026.