Path-Q Solar

When should a home buyer request a solar inspection before removing a purchase contingency?

Answer

Request an independent solar inspection early enough to receive and act on the findings before the contingency deadline, especially when the system's ownership, condition, remaining obligations, or roof interface is unclear.

Key points

  • The inspection should address the panels, inverter, mounting, visible wiring, monitoring, documentation, roof penetrations, and signs of damage.
  • Confirm whether the system is owned, financed, leased, or subject to another agreement.
  • Use the inspection findings to inform negotiations, repair requests, credits, contract conditions, or a decision not to proceed.

What it depends on

  • The purchase contract and contingency deadlines
  • System age, documentation, and ownership arrangement
  • Access to the equipment, roof, monitoring records, and service history

Risks and trade-offs

  • Waiting until after contingency removal can leave the buyer with limited remedies.
  • A visual inspection may not prove actual production or reveal concealed defects.
  • Inspection access or roof access may require coordination and may not be available in all conditions.

Information you may need

  • Purchase agreement and all solar-related documents
  • System installation, maintenance, warranty, and production records
  • The contingency date and any required inspection access

Your next step

What to do next

Ask the agent or transaction professional to confirm the inspection deadline, then schedule an independent solar-qualified inspector before that deadline and review the report before removing the contingency.

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