Florida Solar Panel Scams: Resource Hub
Everything Florida homeowners need to know about solar panel scams. FDUTPA rights, scam alerts, contractor verification, reporting guides, and attorney resources — all in one place.
Florida Solar Panel Scams: Complete Homeowner Resource Hub
Florida ranks among the top 3 states nationally for residential solar installations — and solar fraud. With over 21 million residents, a large retiree population, hurricane-driven demand, and high electricity rates, the Sunshine State is prime territory for solar scammers. This hub connects you to every resource you need.
Your Rights Under Florida Law
Florida's primary consumer protection law is the Florida Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act (FDUTPA) — Fla. Stat. § 501.201. Key facts:
| Protection | Detail |
|---|---|
| Statute of limitations | 4 years from violation |
| Damages | Actual damages + attorney fees |
| Right to cancel | 3 days for door-to-door sales |
| Contractor license check | myfloridalicense.com |
| AG complaint hotline | 1-866-9-NO-SCAM |
Florida-Specific Solar Scams
Beyond the national playbook, Florida homeowners face unique threats:
- Hurricane storm-chasing: Contractors targeting homeowners after hurricanes with "immediate solar + roof repair" offers
- Retiree targeting: Seniors are the #1 target demographic in Florida solar fraud cases
- "FPL/Duke Energy partner" lies: Utilities don't send door-to-door solar salespeople
- "Hurricane-proof" claims: No such certification exists for solar panels
- PACE lien traps: Florida has one of the highest rates of PACE financing complaints nationally
Florida Reporting Agencies
| Agency | Contact | What to Report |
|---|---|---|
| Florida Attorney General | myfloridalegal.com / 1-866-9-NO-SCAM | FDUTPA violations, deceptive sales |
| Florida DBPR | myfloridalicense.com / 850-487-1395 | Contractor license violations |
| Florida Solar Energy Center | fsec.ucf.edu | Technical standards, equipment issues |
| FTC | ReportFraud.ftc.gov | Interstate fraud |
| CFPB | consumerfinance.gov/complaint | Financing complaints |
FAQ
What should I do if a solar company knocked on my door in Florida?
You have a 3-day right to cancel under Florida's Home Solicitation Sales Act. If you signed recently, send written cancellation immediately. If the company didn't provide the cancellation notice, your right may extend further.
How do I check a Florida solar contractor's license?
Visit myfloridalicense.com and search by company name or license number. Look for active status. Solar contractors generally need a Certified Solar Contractor (CVC) or Electrical Contractor (EC) license.
Can I sue a solar company in Florida under FDUTPA?
Yes. FDUTPA allows private lawsuits for actual damages plus attorney fees. The 4-year statute of limitations is longer than most states. Consult a consumer protection attorney for a case evaluation.
What if my solar company went bankrupt?
Florida's construction lien law and the FTC Holder Rule may protect you. If you financed through a third-party lender, you may be able to assert defenses against the lender even if the installer is gone.
Florida homeowners filed over 1,200 solar-related complaints with the AG's office in 2024 alone. If your solar deal isn't what you were promised, you have options — and the clock is ticking.