Solar Panel Fraud Lawyers

As solar energy systems become more popular across New York, there has been a corresponding rise in fraudulent and deceptive practices by certain solar companies. However, such conduct may violate state consumer protection laws. If you believe you’ve been misled or harmed by a solar energy provider, it’s essential to understand your legal rights and consult with our qualified New York consumer protection attorneys to explore your options for recourse.

Recognizing Solar Panel Fraud

Deceptive Sales Practices: Some solar companies employ high-pressure, door-to-door sales tactics that may involve false representations. For example, sales representatives might falsely claim affiliation with your utility provider or a government agency and promise “free” solar panels or guaranteed financial savings.
Substandard or Incomplete Installations: Unlicensed or underqualified contractors may install solar systems improperly, causing roof damage, structural issues, or underperforming energy systems.
Misleading Financing Agreements: Some companies offer financing options that allow repayment through your property tax bill, which are secured by a lien on your home. Although some of these programs are authorized under New York State law, their terms can be confusing and may not always be clearly disclosed. Homeowners might not fully understand that failing to make payments could result in foreclosure.

Legal Protections for New York Solar Panel Consumers

If you’ve been misled or harmed by a solar energy company in New York, several state and federal laws offer strong consumer protections and avenues for legal recourse. Understanding your rights is the first step toward holding fraudulent solar providers accountable.

New York General Business Law §§ 349 and 350

New York's primary consumer protection statutes—General Business Law § 349 (Deceptive Acts and Practices) and § 350 (False Advertising)—prohibit deceptive business conduct and misleading advertising.

These laws empower consumers to sue for damages, including:

Statutory damages of $50 or more
Actual damages
In some cases, attorneys’ fees and treble damages for willful violations

Truth in Lending Act (TILA)

If you were misled about the terms of a solar loan or lease agreement, your rights may also be protected under the Truth in Lending Act (TILA).

This federal law requires clear disclosure of financing terms such as:

Interest rates
Payment schedules
Total repayment amounts

Violations may allow you to rescind the agreement and recover damages.

Home Improvement Contract Protections

Solar installations are often considered home improvement services under New York law. As such, they must comply with contract requirements set by New York General Business Law § 770-§ 783.

This includes written contracts that clearly state:

The scope of work
Payment terms
Cancellation rights

Failure to comply may be grounds for legal action or contract voidance.

Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) Disclosure Standards

New York municipalities that administer PACE financing for solar installations are required to provide detailed disclosures about:

How the financing will affect your property taxes
What happens in the event of a sale or foreclosure

If you were enrolled in a PACE program without receiving this information, your rights may have been violated under state or local PACE program guidelines.

NYS Department of State & NYSERDA Complaints

In addition to litigation, consumers can file complaints with the New York State Department of State Division of Consumer Protection and the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA).

These agencies can investigate contractors, enforce licensing requirements, and, in some cases, facilitate the resolution or discipline of noncompliant companies.

Preventative Measures for NY Homeowners

To protect yourself from solar panel scams and ensure a secure investment in renewable energy, take the following proactive steps:

Verify Credentials and Licensing: Thoroughly research the solar company before signing any agreement. Confirm that the installer is a NYSERDA-approved contractor and properly licensed to perform solar work in New York. Check for complaints with the Better Business Bureau.
Read Contracts in Full: Thoroughly examine all documentation before committing. Verify that key terms—such as total cost, expected system performance, financing conditions, and any liens (e.g., from PACE loans)—are clearly stated, including the right to cancel within three business days.
Consider the Sales Tactics: Be cautious if you're rushed to sign on the spot or promised steep discounts for “same-day” decisions. Legitimate solar providers will respect your need to review the offer and seek independent advice. High-pressure tactics may be a red flag for deceptive practices.

Why Choose Vargas Gonzalez Delombard to Represent Your New York Solar Panel Fraud Case?

Navigating a solar panel fraud case in New York requires a legal team with deep knowledge of state consumer protection laws and a track record of standing up to powerful corporations. At Vargas Gonzalez Delombard, we are committed to representing homeowners who have been misled, overcharged, or harmed by deceptive solar energy providers. We bring extensive experience in complex litigation, including class actions against major solar companies for violations ranging from misrepresentation and defective systems to unlawful financing schemes.

Our firm has taken action against industry players such as Generac Power Systems and Better Earth, Inc., exposing issues like equipment failures, non-disclosure of critical financing terms, and delays in system activation.

Don't face it alone if you suspect you’ve been a victim of solar panel fraud. Contact us today to schedule your free case evaluation and start the process of protecting your rights and your home.