Installing solar panels is a big decision, and a smart one, especially here in sunny Petaluma. But before you dive in, there’s one thing you really want to get right: choosing the right Petaluma solar company.

It’s not just about who can slap panels on your roof the fastest. You want a team that actually knows what they’re doing, stands behind their work, and gives you honest advice, not just sales pitches. So before signing anything, here are seven questions you definitely want to ask.

1. How Long Have You Been Installing Solar in Petaluma?

This one’s all about experience. And not just general experience, local experience.

If they’ve been working in Sonoma County for years, and they are based in Sonoma County, chances are they’ve handled homes just like yours. They’ll know which equipment holds up best in our climate, how long permits really take, and which roofs are solar-friendly (and which aren’t).

Tip to remember: Ask how many installations they’ve done in Petaluma, not just in the local area.

2. Do you have your own crew or do you subcontract out the work?

Okay, this might sound unimportant, but it’s actually a big deal.

Firstly, you want to make sure the solar installer you choose is licensed by the state of California (specifically with a C-10 electrical contractor’s license). And they should be bonded and insured, that means you’re protected if anything goes wrong during the project.

If a company uses subcontractors to get your project done there is less oversight and accountability. 

Too often, big solar companies are just sales companies and then sub out all the work.  What we have seen is that in these cases the sales person only cares about getting you to sign the contract, and they have no contact with the crew actually doing the work.  And then the crew has no personal connection with you so they are less likely to treat your home with the care it should have. Additionally, often times these installers are coming from out of area/ out of state and so, when the leaks they cause start to show they are nowhere to be found.

Bottom line: Only work with licensed and insured contractors that do their own work or at least work with the same subcontractors over and over. .

3. What Kind of Equipment Do You Use and Why?

Solar panels might all look the same from the ground, but trust us, they’re not.

There are big differences in quality, efficiency, and how long the equipment lasts. A good Petaluma solar company should be upfront about what brands they install and why they’ve chosen them. You want third party reviewed panels, high-quality inverters, and reliable warranties.

Some installers go for expensive panels where you’re paying for brand and marketing and not getting a good value.

Good sign: They can explain their choices in plain English, not just tech terms.

4. Can You Walk Me Through the Full Installation Process?

No one likes surprises, especially when it comes to home projects.

Before you move forward, ask the company to give you a full walk-through of what the installation process looks like from start to finish.

Some companies handle it all in-house, others rely on subcontractors. Make sure you know what’s included and who’s doing what.

Bonus points: If they assign you a single point of contact, that’s usually a sign of strong organization.

5. What Financing Options Do You Offer?

Most companies will have several financial options; the trick is finding what’s best for you. A transparent solar installer will walk you through the pros and cons of each, without pushing one just because it’s more profitable for them.

Watch out: If they only offer one option, especially leases.

6. Can I See Reviews, References, or Recent Installations?

A company can say anything on their website, but real feedback from actual customers? That’s where the truth comes out.

Ask for local references, check out online reviews (especially Google and Yelp), and see if they have a photo gallery of recent projects. If they’ve done work nearby, maybe you can even do a quick drive-by.

Green flag: They get excited talking about their past projects, and it shows.

Start Your Solar Journey with Amy’s!

Choosing the right solar company is a lot like choosing a contractor for any major home upgrade: you want someone honest, skilled, and who genuinely cares about doing the job right. With these questions in your back pocket, you’ll be in a great position to make a smart, informed decision.

Looking for a Petaluma solar company that’s experienced, friendly, and deeply rooted in the local community? Amy’s Roofing & Solar is here to help.

📞 Call us today at (707) 981-9801 or contact us online now to get started!