Start Here: Going Solar at Home

Owning the solar and batteries on your home is one of the best long-term investments you can make. Here is how to protect that investment from the first quote to the day the system turns on.

1. Understand your rights

   If you live in an HOA, condo, planned community or mobile home park, know what your association can and cannot require before you apply.

   • Can your HOA really say no to solar?
   • Solar rights in common interest developments
   • California solar rights overview

2. Get HOA approval or appeal a denial

   If your association denies or restricts your system, respond in writing and cite the law.

   • HOA appeal letter (CA)
   • HOA appeal letter (TX)
   • HOA appeal letter (FL)
   • HOA maintenance covenant appeal (CA)
   • Texas HOA appeal guide

3. Review your installation contract

   Know what a fair home solar contract covers before you sign: scope, price, schedule, warranties and cancellation rights.

   • Residential installation agreement (CA)
   • Solar-plus-storage agreement (CA)
   • Updated CA solar consumer protection guide

4. Protect your sunlight

   A neighbor's tree or addition can shade your panels. A solar easement can protect your access to sunlight.

   • How solar easements protect your investment
   • Solar easement agreement (CA)

5. Plan for the future

   Re-roofing, repairs and adding a battery later all go smoother when you know what to expect.

   • Re-roofing a home with solar
   • What energy upgrades should you do first?
   • Residential rooftop solar forum

These resources are general information and templates, not legal advice. Laws vary by state and project, so have a licensed attorney review your finished documents.