Solar Installer Reviews

Suncommon

Suncommon Review

5.00

10 Reviews

Maximize your solar
savings with:

Personalized quotes

Pre-vetted installers

Better product & prices

Company Information

Headquarters:
442 US-2 Waterbury, VT 05676 United States
Inverters Used:
SolarEdge
Workmanship Warranty:
5 Years
Equipment Warranty:
25 Years

All Reviews


Kurt Miller | Castleton, VT
2/5/2018

I had my solar panels installed by Suncommom late August 2017, exactly as scheduled.. I researched in depth all companies selling solar in Vermont, and talked to over a dozen people who had systems installed. (Advantage of a small state) I chose Suncommon for a combination of price, length of warranty, excellent product line,service and reputation. I've not been disappointed, and still have helpful and friendly conversation with them.

donn Siegriest | Colchester, VT
2/5/2018

We installed solar panels last year using Suncommon. There was absolutely nothing troublesome in dealing with these folks and the installation folks. I highly recommend Suncommon - It is disappointing to see they are not highly regarded...It seems like the years they have been in business and the fact they have been only in Vermont weighed heavily on their low rating...They are truly an excellent company! Trust these folks!

Fred Trombly | USA
2/5/2018

SunCommon made the details as seamless as possible. Their "Solar Advisor" was knowledgeable and helped me figure out the number of panels needed and the financing options which were very good. I was able to structure my loan to be less than my electric bill was and after 10 years (8&1/2 now) I won't have either. This will save me about $120 (after taxes) a month and increase the resale value of my home. We are able to use air-conditioning more in addition to the other benefits.

Peggy Cochran | Barre, VT
2/5/2018

Very friendly company and so easy to work with. We are very happy with our solar installation experience!

Donald Labrecque | Colchester, VT
2/5/2018

EDIT : After the initial review, SunCommon has begun the process of remedying our breach. Therefore the original review has been modifed and will be updated at project completion. SunCommon lied to me about installation scheduling for months, before I eventually terminated the contract with no believable installation date in sight. They offered no remedy, only more false promises.

Joe Hedal | Westwood, MA
2/5/2018

SunCommon marketed to us a system whereby the energy produced over a full year would result in a net zero bill to Green Mountain power. As it turns out, we end up paying electric bills about half the year. This is because SunCommon in designing the system used an annual historical usage amount that was less than our actual usage (despite the fact that we gave them access to our usage history). When I first contacted them, they acknowledge the mistake and said they'd come up with options to address it. The "option" was for us to pay to have them install more panels (yes, at a lower rate, they said, than they normally would charge). As a customer, I should not pay anything for their mistake. When I tried to raise the issue to management (James) they went through contortions to explain why they had not made a mistake (they had, and their tech guy admitted it). The roof on our house faces northwest, not the best orientation. Rather than just telling us that the cost of a system to cover our electrical would not be cost effective, they gave us a hard sell on a system that does not cover our annual usage. They could have mitigated the issue significantly with additional panels for short money but instead chose to debate their mistake with the customer. They were not the least expensive quote we got, and I went with them because I liked the idea of supporting a local Vermont company. I would not recommend them, and would have made a different decision had I known how frustrating and difficult they were to deal with. The good: the installation seems ok, is producing electricity, but, because we are still paying the utility our payback will be even longer than the 10.5 years they originally projected (and, I know, that is a very long payback).

S. T. | Burlington, VT
2/5/2018

We were looking for solar panel installation for the house, contacted a few companies for it and someone recommended Suncommon to us. The initial phone calls were great, until they assigned a “specialist” who was supposed to visit the house. He canceled the appointment on the day he was supposed to come, promised to send his assessment report. Guess what? We never heard back from him again, until a month and a half later, he finally got back to us with nothing and said he doesn’t think solar is a good idea. Thing is, we have asked for community solar from the beginning, which he never mentioned until we specifically asked him for it in response to his “sorry, not a good idea” email. He didn’t write back for a week, then he said, “the program has been filled.” Nothing more. Apparently that’s how they treat a potential customer.

RICHARD GRZWGOROWICZ | Hartland, VT
2/5/2018

IM VERY UPSET WITH SUN COMMON. MY REASONS ARE, WE WERE TOLD DURING AGREEMENT PAPERWORK THE STATE OF VERMONT WOULD HELP US WITH THE COST OF SYSTEM, INSTALLATION. AFTER SYSTEM WAS IN AND WORKING WE WERE ADVISED WE DO NOT QUALIFY. [NO OTHER REASON GIVEN] IV NEARLY 30,000 INVESTED, I CALLED MANY TIMES AND GOT NO WHERE WITH THEM, ANOTHER REASON AND THIS IS A REAL PROBLEM FOR ME IM 80 YEARS OLD AND BAD LEGS, THE SYSTEM WE BOUGHT SHOULD HAVE HAD THE MONITORING PANEL IN MY BASEMENT, WHERE I COULD KEEP TRACK OF IS PRODUCTION, THE CO THAT INSTALLED MY SYSTEM BY PASSED THIS AND PUT A BOX ON THE PANEL BASE IN THE FIELD WHERE I CANT SEE IT, AND THE SYSTEM FAILED 3 TIMES , ONE TIME IT WAS OUT OVER A MONTH I NEVER KNEW IT. BE CAUSE I CANT GET TO WHERE I CAN SEE THE SCREEN. I WOULD LIKE SOME ANSWERS IF ANY ONE CARES.

States Served

NY, VT

What To Look For In A Solar Installer?

When looking for a solar installer, it's essential to consider various factors to ensure you choose a reputable and competent company that meets your needs.

When selecting an installer like Suncommon consider:

Experience and Reputation:

Look for a company with a solid track record and years of experience in the solar industry. Read the latest Suncommon solar reviews from past customers to gauge their reputation.

Certifications and Licenses:

Ensure the installer holds the necessary licenses and certifications required in your area. Look for certifications from organizations like the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) to verify their expertise.

Quality Products and Technology:

Inquire about the types and brands of solar panels, inverters, and other equipment they use. Quality matters for long-term performance. Ask if they offer the latest solar technologies, such as high-efficiency panels or energy storage solutions.

Learn more: Best Solar Panels for Homes | Top Solar Batteries

Warranty Information:

Understand the warranties they offer for equipment and workmanship. A reputable installer should provide comprehensive warranties. The majority of modern solar panels are equipped with a warranty spanning 20 to 30 years, encompassing both the product's integrity and its energy output. An ordinary workmanship warranty offered by a certified company typically provides coverage for solar panels for an average period of 10 years.

Transparent Pricing and Contracts:

Get detailed solar quotes that include all costs, from equipment and labor to permits and inspections. Review the contract carefully to ensure it's clear and transparent, with no hidden fees or surprises.

Local Knowledge:

Choose a company familiar with local building codes, regulations, and permitting processes. This can expedite the installation and ensure compliance.

Customized Design:

Look for companies who provide custom solar system designs tailored to your specific energy needs and property characteristics.

Energy Production Estimates:

The installer should provide accurate estimates of how much energy the system will generate, factoring in local climate conditions and other key influences. If your estimated solar savings are much higher with one solar company, you'll want to inquire further to ensure their savings projections aren't skewed to close the sale. Connect with us for a free estimate.

Financing Options:

Inquire about solar financing options, including purchase, lease, or power purchase agreements (PPAs). Ensure you know the pros and cons of each option.

Customer Service:

Assess their responsiveness and willingness to answer your questions and concerns and consider the installer's commitment to your project satisfaction. Throughout your solar process we’ll advocate for you, ensuring your solar project is done right.

References and Recommendations:

Seek recommendations from friends, family, or colleagues who have installed solar panels. Ask the installer for references from past clients who can share their experiences. You can also read the latest reviews on Suncommon.

Multiple Quotes:

Don't hesitate to obtain quotes from multiple installers to compare pricing, services, and warranties. Hint: We can help!

Financing and Incentive Knowledge:

Ensure the installer is knowledgeable about available incentives, tax credits, rebates and financing options. At EnergyPal, we’ll help maximize your savings.

Safety Practices:

Confirm that the installer adheres to safety protocols during installation to protect both workers and your property.

By researching and considering these factors, you can select a reputable solar installer who will provide a quality solar energy system and a positive experience throughout the installation process. Connect with us to learn more about the best solar installers in your area.

How Do I Compare Solar Installation Options?

To make an informed decision when comparing solar installation options, start by determining your energy needs and seeking multiple quotes from reputable installers. Examine the quality of equipment, evaluate proposed system designs, and consider financing options, factoring in total costs and long-term savings. Assess warranties, support, and the installer's experience while also checking for customer feedback and references. Gauge their responsiveness and customer service, ensuring they educate you about the process. Consider an installer's licensing, and certifications. Request accurate energy production estimates and review contracts for transparency. By evaluating these factors, you can confidently choose the solar installation option that aligns with your energy goals and budget. Connect with us for a free quote.

Steps for Installing Solar Panels

  • Qualification: Contact solar companies through web forms, referrals, or flyers. Answer questions to determine eligibility.
  • System Design: Receive initial solar system design in a proposal. Review the design and consider panel placement, avoiding “under-sizing“ or “oversizing.“
  • Compare Quotes: Evaluate quotes, considering factors like monthly payments, power output, and system details. Seek guidance to simplify the comparison.
  • Contract Signing: Select a company and panel design, understand and sign the contract.
  • Site Survey: Technician assesses the site for solar panel installation, checking roof orientation and structural integrity.
  • Engineering: Behind-the-scenes process finalizes system layout, electrical configuration, and structural safety for permit submission.
  • Permitting: The company obtains necessary permits and approvals, ensuring compliance with regulations.
  • Installation: Expert team mounts panels, installs wiring and inverters, connects the system to the grid.
  • System Activation: Request final inspections, obtain permission to operate (PTO) from the utility, and turn on the system. Monitoring apps track power generation. From a signed contract to installation and system activation this process can take two to six months to complete. Check out our article for a more indepth look into the solar installation process.

Local Installers, Tax Credits, And Rebates In Your State

+

Suncommon Solar Review Conclusion

Prior to making a decision to work with Suncommon, homeowners should thoroughly review multiple solar installation providers and quotes. This ensures they can secure the most suitable choices, advantages, and cost-effectiveness that align with their specific requirements.

Our impartial advisors are here with your best interests in mind. We listen, educate, and guide you to ensure you find the energy solution that's the perfect fit for your home.

We provide free custom designs tailored precisely to your home's unique requirements, allowing you to compare programs side by side.

Get a free custom quote on your solar system

Step 1 of 4

Do you own or rent your property?

We use cookies on our website. To learn more about cookies and how we use them view our Privacy Policy.