Path-Q Solar
Who is responsible if a solar permit is rejected after the contract is signed?
Answer
Responsibility depends primarily on the contract and the reason for rejection. The installer commonly handles design corrections and resubmission when permitting is included in its scope, but the homeowner may bear costs or cancellation consequences if the contract shifts that risk or the rejection results from property information, owner changes, or an undisclosed restriction.
Key points
- A permit-rejection clause should identify correction, resubmission, refund, and cancellation obligations.
- The contract should distinguish ordinary design correction from major site or code changes.
- Permit approval is different from utility interconnection approval.
- Verbal promises about 'handling permits' should be made contractual.
What it depends on
- Contract terms and included scope
- Reason for permit rejection
- Accuracy of property and site information
- Local permitting requirements
Risks and trade-offs
- The homeowner may face delay, redesign cost, or financing obligations during a dispute.
- A contract may allow termination but retain deposits or impose fees.
- A rejected design may require structural or electrical work beyond the original quote.
Information you may need
- Permit and approval clauses
- Deposit, cancellation, refund, and change-order terms
- Written reason for rejection
- Whether permit and redesign services are included
Your next step
What to do next
Review the contract's permit-risk provisions and ask the installer in writing who pays for correction, resubmission, delay, and cancellation if approval is denied.
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