How to Spot Solar Sales Scams in Florida
Federal agencies and Florida's Attorney General warn about the same few solar sales tactics: panels that are "free" or part of a "government program," pressure to sign today, promises that your electric bill will disappear, and loan terms nobody explains clearly. If you hear any of these, slow down. Get everything in writing, check the contractor's license with Florida's Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), and report anything suspicious to the FTC or the Florida Attorney General.
At a glance
A clearer proposal checklist
- Confirm the contractor's identity and license.
- Ask for the full price and terms in writing.
- Separate equipment, performance and workmanship warranties.
- Take time to understand assumptions and exclusions.
What regulators have said
On August 7, 2024, the U.S. Treasury, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) jointly announced steps to protect home solar buyers, each with its own warnings (Treasury). Florida's Attorney General has its own guide, Scams at a Glance: The Dark Side of Solar.
Red flags
"Free" panels or a "government program"
The FTC says offers of "free" or no-cost solar panels are scams, and the federal government does not install solar on homes for free (FTC). Treasury lists pitches that say "this is a government program" among common sales scams (Treasury). Florida's Attorney General warns about solar companies that present themselves as government-affiliated (Florida AG).
Pressure to sign today
Treasury also lists limited-time offers and pressure to decide on the spot (Treasury). The FTC says to stop if someone rushes you, or asks you to sign on a tablet without showing you the full agreement (FTC). Florida's Attorney General warns that some people are told a tablet signature is only for a credit check, when it is really a sales or financing contract (Florida AG).
Promises that your bills will disappear
The CFPB reports homeowners being told solar would cover the loan and end their energy bills, and says the real financial results are uncertain (CFPB). Staying connected to your utility also has monthly charges. Under FPL's October 2026 residential rates, a home whose monthly base electric service costs come to less than $30 is billed a $30 minimum (FPL).
Financing nobody explains clearly
In 2024 the CFPB reported that some solar lenders add hidden "dealer fees" that can raise the amount you borrow by 30% or more above the cash cost, and that advertised interest rates often leave those fees out (CFPB). Treasury flags short periods of low payments that hide higher bills later (Treasury). Ask for the total cost in writing, with and without the loan. This is general information, not financial advice.
Someone says they are from your utility
Tampa Electric says it does not partner with or endorse solar or battery companies: "We don't send solar contractors to your door" (Tampa Electric, May 2026). The FTC warns about so-called officials who say your utility already signed you up, so now you have to pay (FTC). FPL says it will never try to sell you a product at your door, and to call the number on your bill (FPL). If anyone claims a utility connection, close the door or hang up, then call that number.
Unexpected requests for your details
The FTC advises against answering unexpected online or social media requests for your name, address or other personal details to "see if you qualify" (FTC).
What to do instead
Get it in writing. Florida's Attorney General suggests asking for a written copy of all contracts before you sign, and reading the warranties, cancellation policies, payment schedule and any hidden fees (Florida AG). DBPR recommends written estimates from several licensed contractors, listing the work, materials, completion date and total cost (DBPR).
Look for Florida's solar disclosure. Florida law requires a separate disclosure statement, which you acknowledge separately, with any agreement to buy or lease a home solar system. Where they apply, it lists the total cost including interest and fees, the installer's state contractor license number, and your right to cancel for at least three business days after signing (Fla. Stat. 520.23).
Check the license. DBPR lists solar among the trades that need a Florida state license. Ask for the contractor's license number and look it up with DBPR's license search. Being registered as an LLC or Inc. does not make a company a contractor (DBPR). Florida's Attorney General also notes that every solar installation needs a permit and inspection before it connects to the utility (Florida AG).
Take your time. The FTC says honest businesses give you time to go over the terms (FTC). If you sign at home, federal and Florida rules may let you cancel some sales until midnight of the third business day (FTC Cooling-Off Rule; Fla. Stat. 501.025). These rules have exceptions. This is not legal advice; a lawyer can tell you how they apply.
Report it.
- FTC: ReportFraud.ftc.gov
- Florida Attorney General: file a complaint or call 1-866-9-NO-SCAM (1-866-966-7226) (Florida AG)
- CFPB, for a loan problem: consumerfinance.gov/complaint
- DBPR, for unlicensed contracting: 1-866-532-1440 (DBPR)
- Your utility, if someone used its name
General information only, not legal or financial advice.
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