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Solar Installation Agreement

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FRAMING HOME IMPROVEMENT CONTRACT

This Framing Contract (“Contract”), effective as of the date of the last party to sign below, , is between having an address at (“Contractor”) and having an address at (“Owner”).

Notice of Cancellation may be sent to the contractor at the address noted on the contract.

For valuable consideration the parties hereby agree as follows:

1. LIST OF DOCUMENTS TO BE INCORPORATED INTO THIS CONTRACT:

EXHIBIT A – Commercial General Liability Insurance

EXHIBIT B – Workers’ Compensation Insurance

EXHIBIT C – 3 day right to cancel

EXHIBIT D – 7 day right to cancel

EXHIBIT E – Sample change order form

The above mentioned Exhibits are hereby incorporated in and made part of this Contract.

2. SCOPE OF WORK: Framing shall be to the plans including all details. Floor joist layout shall be as best to avoid plumbing for tubs and toilets. Framing includes the installation of sill plates; rim joists; floor joists; sub flooring; plates; exterior and interior walls; ceiling joists; headers; rafters; roof sheathing; sub fascia and fascia; bridging; joist hangers; rough framing materials for stair jacks, treads and risers; collar ties; other attic bracing materials; roof overhang and soffit; rake boards; steel and/or wood girders; columns and posts; sill sealer under the sill plates; sheathing and siding the exterior walls; siding corners; interior and exterior decorative beams and posts; exterior moldings; drip edge/Z-bar (including trim materials over z-bar); windows; exterior doors (excepting the garage door); frame and case garage door as needed; back-out garage door as needed; ventilation materials; termite shield; furring blocks on concrete walls; bracing; stiffbacks; backing blocks; nailing blocks; shimming windows and doors; caulking and gluing continuous as needed; set all finish nails; insulation behind tubs located on exterior walls; drywall behind tubs as required; box in vent areas; box in heat runs as required; framing for future recessed fixtures; kitchen and bathroom cabinet drops; fire stopping as required; deck posts; deck girders; deck floor joists and flooring; deck handrail and seating; deck stair jacks, treads and risers; and .

Contractor shall return all excess material and damaged materials. Contractor shall call for inspections of the work as required.

Framing Materials:

Sill Insulation: Termite Shield:

Bridging Material: Joist Hangers:

SubFloor Material: Size: Glue:

Underlayment Material: Size: Glue:

Wall Sheathing Material: Size:

Corner Brace Material:

Wall Siding Material: Size:

Roof Sheathing Material: Size:

Flitch Plate Material/Size: Bolts:

Nails-Framing Members: Siding:

Windows: Exterior Trim: Exterior Doors:

Use / Material Type / Size / Spacing / Greatest Span Each Size

Sill Plate:

Box Sill/Rim Joist:

1st Floor-Floor Joists:

2nd Floor-Floor Joists:

Ceiling Joists:

3. WORK SITE: The Project shall be constructed on the property of Owner located at and more particularly described as (hereafter “the Work Site”).

4. COMMENCEMENT AND COMPLETION OF WORK TO BE PERFORMED:

(a) The following describes how Contractor shall substantially commence work:

(b) APPROXIMATE START DATE:

(c) APPROXIMATE DATE OF SUBSTANTIAL COMPLETION:

5. PERMITS: Contractor shall apply for and obtain such permits and regulatory approvals as may be required by the local municipal/county government, the cost thereof shall be included as part of the Project price.

6. INSURANCE: Contractor shall maintain general liability, workers compensation and builder's risk insurance.

7. SURVEY AND TITLE: If the Project is near the Owner’s property boundary, Owner will point out property lines to the Contractor. If the Owner or Contractor has any doubt about the location of the property lines, Owner shall provide Contractor with boundary stakes through a licensed surveyor. In addition, Owner shall provide Contractor documentation that Owner has title to the Work Site and shall provide Contractor copies of any covenants, conditions, or restrictions that affect the Work Site.

8. EXTRA WORK AND CHANGE ORDERS: Extra work and change orders become part of this Contract once the order is prepared in writing and signed by both parties prior to the commencement of any work covered by the new change order.

9. PRICING

(a) CONTRACT PRICE:

{COST PLUS} Owner agrees to pay Contractor the actual cost to Contractor of materials plus the sum of $ for performing the services set forth in the scope of the work.

OR

{FIXED FEE} Owner agrees to pay Contractor the sum of $ for performing the services set forth in the scope of the work.

(b) DOWN PAYMENT: Amount:

(c) SCHEDULE OF PROGRESS PAYMENTS:

(d) FINANCE CHARGE (if applicable): Amount: $

10. LATE PAYMENT/DEFAULT: A failure to make payment for a period in excess of ten (10) days from the due date shall be deemed a material breach of this Contract.

11. DESTRUCTION AND DAMAGE: If the Project is destroyed or damaged for any reason, except where such destruction or damage was caused by the sole negligence of the Contractor or its subcontractors, Owner shall pay Contractor for any additional work done by Contractor in rebuilding or restoring the Project to its condition prior to such destruction or damage.

12. ASSIGNMENT: Neither party may assign this Contract, or payments due under the Contract, without the other party’s written consent.

13. INTERPRETATION:

(a) Interpretation of Documents. The Contract, drawings, and specifications are intended to supplement one another.

(b) Entire Agreement. This Contract constitutes the entire agreement of the parties.

(c) Governing Law. This Contract shall be interpreted and governed in accordance with the laws of the State of California.

14. ATTORNEYS’ FEES AND COSTS: If any party to this Contract brings a cause of action against the other party arising from or relating to this Contract, the prevailing party in such proceeding shall be entitled to recover reasonable attorney fees and court costs.

15. PERFORMANCE:

(a) Contractor may, at its discretion, engage licensed subcontractors to perform work pursuant this Contract provided Contractor shall remain fully responsible for the proper completion of the Project.

(b) All work shall be completed in a workman-like manner and in compliance with all building codes and applicable laws.

(c) Contractor agrees to remove all debris and leave the premises in broom clean condition.

16. WARRANTY: Contractor's warranty shall be limited to due to improper framing labor techniques, except for the following allowances: floor variance shall not exceed 1/4 inch in 32 inches, bowed or out of plumb walls shall not exceed 1/4 inch in 32 inches, non-excessive floor squeaks or pops.

17. REQUIRED NOTICES:

(a) You are entitled to a completely filled in copy of this Contract, signed by both you and the Contractor, before any work may be started.

(b) A notice concerning commercial general liability insurance is attached to this Contract.

(c) A notice concerning workers’ compensation insurance is attached to this Contract.

(d) Change Orders:

i. The Owner may not require a Contractor to perform extra or change-order work without providing written authorization prior to the commencement of any work covered by the new change order.

ii. Extra work or a change order is not enforceable against a buyer unless the change order identifies all of the following in writing prior to the commencement of any work covered by the new change order.

iii. A Contractor’s failure to comply with the requirements for a change order does not preclude the Contractor’s recovery of compensation for work performed based upon legal or equitable remedies designed to prevent unjust enrichment.

(e) MECHANICS LIEN WARNING: Anyone who helps improve your property, but who is not paid, may record what is called a mechanics' lien on your property.

(f) Information about the Contractors' State License Board (CSLB): CSLB is the state consumer protection agency that licenses and regulates construction contractors.

Right to Cancel

This Contract was negotiated at the Contractor’s place of business. Consequently, the law does not provide a right to cancel.

This Contract was not negotiated at the Contractor’s place of business. Consequently, the law requires that the Contractor give you a notice explaining your right to cancel.

This Contract is for the repair or restoration of residential premises damaged by a sudden or catastrophic event. Consequently, the law requires that the Contractor give you a notice explaining your right to cancel.

CONTRACTOR:

Signature:

Print Name & Title:

Date:

OWNER:

Signature:

Print Name:

Date:

Contractor’s License Number:

Contractor’s Business Address:

If applicable: Salesperson’s Name:

Salesperson’s Registration Number:

EXHIBIT A – COMMERCIAL GENERAL LIABILITY INSURANCE

This Contractor does not carry commercial general liability insurance.

Contractor carries commercial general liability insurance written by . You may call the Insurance Company at to check Contractor’s insurance coverage.

This Contractor is self-insured.

This Contractor is a limited liability company that carries liability insurance or maintains other security as required by law. You may call at to check Contractor’s insurance coverage or security.

EXHIBIT B – WORKERS’ COMPENSATION INSURANCE

This Contractor has no employees and is exempt from workers’ compensation requirements.

This Contractor carries workers’ compensation insurance for all employees.

EXHIBIT C – 3 DAY RIGHT TO CANCEL

This page is only applicable if this Contract was not negotiated at the Contractor’s place of business.

Date last party signed the Contract:

To cancel this transaction, mail or deliver a signed and dated copy of this cancellation notice to Name of Seller (Contractor or Salesman): at not later than midnight of .

Owner’s Signature:

Print Owner’s Name:

Date:

EXHIBIT D – 7 DAY RIGHT TO CANCEL

This page is only applicable if the Contract is for the repair or restoration of residential premises damaged by a sudden or catastrophic event.

Date last party signed the Contract:

To cancel this transaction, mail or deliver a signed and dated copy of this cancellation notice to Name of Seller (Contractor or Salesman): at not later than midnight of .

Owner’s Signature:

Print Owner’s Name:

Date:

EXHIBIT E – SAMPLE CHANGE ORDER

A. Scope of work encompassed by this change order:

B. Amount to be added or subtracted from the Contract price:

C. Effect this change order will have on progress payments (if applicable):

D. Effect this change order will have on the estimated completion date:

CONTRACTOR:

Signature:

Print Name & Title:

Date:

OWNER:

Signature:

Print Name:

Date:

Checklist for Homeowners

Did you contact the Contractors State License Board (CSLB) to check the status of the contractor's license?

Contact the CSLB at 1-800-321-CSLB (2752) or visit our web site: www.cslb.ca.gov.

Did you get at least 3 local references from the contractors you are considering?

Did you call them?

Building Permits - will the contractor get a permit before the work starts?

Did you read and do you understand your contract?

Does the 3-day right to cancel a contract apply to you?

Contact the CSLB if you don't know.

Does the contract tell you when work will start and end?

Does the contract include a detailed description of the work to be done, the material to be used, and equipment to be installed?

Are you required to pay a down payment?

Is there a schedule of payments?

Did your contractor give you a “Notice to Owner,” a warning notice describing liens and ways to prevent them?

Did you know changes or additions to your contract must be in writing?

Enter text

What a Solar Installation Agreement Covers

A Solar Installation Agreement is a written contract that documents the terms between a property owner and a solar installer for designing, permitting, supplying, and installing a photovoltaic system. It allocates responsibilities for site assessment, equipment specifications, installation schedule, payment and change orders, warranties, inspection and commissioning, and post-installation maintenance. The agreement also addresses permits, interconnection with the utility, ownership of renewable energy credits (RECs), insurance and indemnity, and remedies for delays or defective performance to reduce disputes during construction and system handover.

Why this Agreement Matters for Owners and Contractors

A clear Solar Installation Agreement defines scope, risk allocation, timelines, and payment mechanics to prevent misunderstandings and limit exposure during permitting, installation, and commissioning.

Why this Agreement Matters for Owners and Contractors

Primary Users and Stakeholders

Typical users include residential and commercial property owners, licensed solar contractors, project managers, and lending or leasing parties who finance the system.

  • Residential owners and homeowners associations managing rooftop projects or ground-mount systems.
  • Commercial property owners and facility managers procuring larger rooftop or carport arrays.
  • Licensed solar contractors and subcontractors responsible for electrical and structural work.

Core Sections to Include in a Professional Agreement

A complete Solar Installation Agreement organizes project details so each party understands deliverables, approvals, and remedies. The following elements reduce ambiguity and align expectations from contract signing through system commissioning.

Scope of Work

Describe site assessment, design, equipment models, inverter and panel counts, mounting type, and deliverables, including drawings and single-line diagrams for permit submission.

Schedule

Specify milestones: permit application date, procurement windows, installation start and completion dates, and conditions that extend timeline such as utility delays or weather.

Payment Terms

Define contract price, deposits, progress payments, final payment, retention or holdback, change order pricing method, and conditions for release of funds.

Permits & Inspections

Assign responsibility for permit filings, payment of permit fees, scheduling inspections, and handling utility interconnection documentation and fees.

Warranties

State manufacturer warranties, installer workmanship warranty length and scope, remedy procedures, and whether performance guarantees or production guarantees apply.

Risk & Remedies

Allocate insurance requirements, indemnities, limitation of liability, liquidated damages for delays where applicable, and termination rights for cause or convenience.

Step-by-Step: Completing the Agreement

Follow these sequential steps to prepare and finalize a Solar Installation Agreement with clear authorizations and documentation.

  • 01
    Assess Site: Document shading, roof condition, and structural capacity before finalizing scope.
  • 02
    Select Equipment: Record model numbers and warranty terms that match permit drawings.
  • 03
    Agree Price: Confirm total cost, deposits, payment schedule, and change order rates.
  • 04
    Sign & Certify: Obtain authorized signatures, dates, and any required notarization before permit submission.

Customizing the Agreement for Online Completion

Set up a reusable digital workflow to collect signatures, attachments, and conditional approvals for permits and financing.

Document Template Create a master with fillable fields
Conditional Fields Show financing details only when selected
Signer Order Set role-based signing sequence
Attachments Require proof of insurance and product datasheets
Notifications Enable email reminders for missing signatures

Where to Send and File the Completed Agreement

After execution, distribute the agreement to parties, permit authorities, and any financing or leasing provider to maintain a reliable project record.

  • Property Owner: Retain signed copy for title records and HOA review
  • Installer: Use copy for scheduling, procurement, and warranty activation
  • Permit Authority: Submit required documents with permit application
  • Lender/Leasing: Provide executed agreement for financing conditions

Digital Signing and eSubmission Essentials

Use an eSignature platform that supports audit trails, secure storage, and conditional fields for permitting workflows.

  • File Formats: PDF and DOCX supported
  • Integrations: Salesforce, NetSuite, Google Workspace
  • Authentication: Email, SMS, or advanced options

Key Deadlines to Track

Timely action matters: deadlines affect permitting, utility interconnection, warranty start dates, and incentive eligibility.

Permit Submission Deadline:

Submit plans within the agreed procurement window to avoid material delays

Inspection Scheduling:

Book inspections promptly after installation to trigger commissioning

Interconnection Application:

File with utility per their queue rules to avoid extra fees

Warranty Registration:

Register manufacturer warranties within their stated window after commissioning

Payment Milestones:

Make deposits and final payments on contract-specified dates to avoid interest or lien risk

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Vague scope descriptions that omit array orientation, inverter sizing, or mounting details lead to change orders and disputes.
  • Failing to specify permit responsibility and fee allocation creates delays when municipal reviewers request missing documentation.
  • Not documenting utility interconnection and REC ownership can cause future revenue or compliance conflicts with buyers or tenants.
  • Using unsigned or outdated equipment lists disrupts inspections and may void manufacturer warranty coverage.

Consequences of an Incomplete or Incorrect Agreement

Payment Disputes: Contractor may suspend work or assert liens
Permit Rejection: Delays and additional plan revisions required
Warranty Voidance: Incorrect registration or unauthorized modifications
Contract Termination: Breaches can trigger termination and damages
Interconnection Delay: Lost production revenue until grid connection
Compliance Penalties: Fines for failing to meet local code requirements

Real-World Examples of Agreement Use

Two practical scenarios show how clauses resolve common project needs and clarify responsibilities for installers and owners.

Case Study 1

A commercial tenant engaged a contractor with a performance schedule and liquidated damages clause to protect rent-back revenues.

  • The clause specified daily damages for missed commissioning.
  • When the installer missed the deadline due to a delayed transformer, the owner and contractor used the agreed liquidated damages formula to calculate compensation without costly litigation, and updated the procurement timeline for future phases.

Case Study 2

A homeowner financed panels using a lender that required assignment language and proof of insurance.

  • The agreement included assignment and insurance verification obligations.
  • The lender approved funding quickly because the contract named the lender's required documentation, the installer provided timely insurance certificates, and warranty registrations were completed upon commissioning.

eSignature Vendor Comparison for Executing Solar Agreements

A concise pricing and capability comparison highlights entry-level costs and whether each vendor supports HIPAA and bulk send features relevant to contract and permit workflows.

signNow DocuSign Adobe Sign PandaDoc HelloSign
Starting Price $8/user/mo $15/user/mo $14/user/mo $19/user/mo $15/user/mo
Free Trial Yes, 7-day trial No No No Yes, limited
Bulk Send Yes Yes Yes Yes No
Audit Trail Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
HIPAA Compliant Yes Yes Yes No No

FAQs and Troubleshooting for Solar Installation Agreements

Answers to common questions about validity, signatures, and common execution problems encountered during solar projects.


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