Start Here: Running a Solar Installation Company

Installers are how owners get their systems built. These are the agreements and rules every residential and commercial solar company needs to get right.

1. Get licensed correctly

   Your license qualifier arrangement needs to be in writing.

   • RME vs. RMO: which do you need?
   • RMO agreement
   • RME agreement

2. Use a compliant customer contract

   Home improvement contracts have strict rules. Use an agreement built for solar and storage.

   • Residential installation agreement (CA)
   • Solar-plus-storage agreement (CA)
   • Commercial installation agreement (CA)
   • CSLB reminder on home improvement contracts

3. Set up subcontractors

   Put scope, insurance, payment and warranty duties in writing before crews start.

   • Subcontractor agreement (CA)
   • Subcontractor agreement
   • Change order form

4. Protect your sales process

   Commission plans, lead generation and referrals are where disputes start.

   • Structuring commission clawbacks
   • Solar sales commission policy
   • Lead generator services agreement
   • CA rules on lead generation

5. Service, warranties and collections

   Keep customers happy after install and get paid for your work.

   • Ten-year limited warranty
   • Remove-reinstall agreement (CA)
   • Service contract (CA)
   • Collection policy & forms
   • Solar Legal Starter Kit (CA)

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.