Buying advice
How to read a solar quote before you sign
A solar quote can look fine and still cost more than it should. Here is exactly what to check before you sign, from an independent advisor.
Short answer
A solar quote can look perfectly reasonable and still cost more than it should, or leave you with a system that does not fit how you actually use power. Before you sign, check the rebate line, system sizing, equipment, installer accreditation, exclusions and pressure tactics.
Start a quoteIs the rebate shown clearly and separately?
The STC value, any federal battery support and any state amount should each be itemised. If the quote only shows a single after-rebate price with no breakdown, ask for the breakdown.
You cannot compare quotes properly if you cannot see how the discount, hardware, labour and extras have been treated.
Is the system sized to your usage, not your roof?
A quote built around how many panels fit on the roof is often a quote built around installer revenue. The right system is the one that uses your roof well and matches how the property consumes power.
Ask what self-consumption rate the quote assumes, what happens to exported energy, and whether the design leaves a sensible pathway for storage later.
What equipment is it, and what are the real warranties?
Look for exact panel, inverter and battery brands and model numbers. Then check product warranty, performance warranty and installer workmanship warranty as separate things.
A headline like 25-year warranty can mean very different things depending on what part of the system it applies to.
Who is actually installing it?
Confirm who does the installation, what accreditation applies, and who is responsible if there is a problem after handover.
If the salesperson cannot clearly explain the installer, warranty path and support process, the quote is not ready.
What is not in the price?
Meter changes, switchboard upgrades, extra-storey work, tilt frames, difficult access, travel and roofing issues can all sit outside the headline price.
A good quote is upfront about what is included, what is excluded, and what could change after a site inspection.
Red flags
Watch for high-pressure today-only discounts, vague or inflated rebate claims, no itemisation, missing model numbers and prices that look too good to be real.
If the quote cannot survive a calm review, it probably should not be signed.
Sources
Primary references used for this guide.
Rebate settings and certificate values change. Use these sources for live program rules before accepting a quote.
FAQ
What should a solar quote include?
It should include equipment brands and models, system size, battery details if relevant, rebate breakdown, exclusions, warranties, installer details and payment terms.
How do I compare two solar quotes fairly?
Compare like for like: system size, usable battery capacity, equipment quality, warranty paths, rebate treatment, exclusions, installer credentials and projected self-consumption.
Will You Solar Australia review my quote?
Yes. Quote review is part of the free advisory service for customers who want a clearer answer before accepting a system.
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