Cancelling a solar sale: the FTC Cooling-Off Rule
What the federal rule for door-to-door sales says, in its own words.
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What the rule covers
The FTC Cooling-Off Rule, 16 CFR Part 429, applies "In connection with any door-to-door sale." The rule defines a door-to-door sale and lists transactions it "does not include."
The cancellation statement
Under section 429.1, the seller must give the buyer a statement in substantially this form: "You, the buyer, may cancel this transaction at any time prior to midnight of the third business day after the date of this transaction."
Whether it applies to you
We do not say whether any sale is covered. Read the rule, read your contract, and ask a lawyer licensed in your state.
Financing documents
For financing, the FTC says to ask: "Do I have a right to cancel this financing? What's the deadline for cancelling?"
This is general information, not tax, financial, legal, or engineering advice.
Sources: eCFR, 16 CFR Part 429 (Cooling-Off Rule); FTC, Solar Power for Your Home.
FAQ
General information only. We are not a contractor, installer, lender, or tax adviser. We do not refer, match, vet, rate, or check contractors, and we do not collect your information. Before you hire anyone, verify their license or registration with your state (in Washington, use the Department of Labor & Industries' Verify tool), get written bids, and read every contract and financing document. For tax questions, see IRS.gov or ask a tax professional.
Next: reading a contract
What the contract should say.
