Permits and HOA approval: what to ask
Permit fees belong in the bid, and an HOA may need to approve the system.
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Permit fees in the bid
The FTC says bids should list "the full cost of installation, including any building or electrical permit fees."
Local codes
Which codes and permits apply depends on where you live, and more than one office may be involved. Ask your city or county building department what applies, and ask each company in writing who gets the permits.
HOA approval
The FTC asks: "Do you have to get homeowners' association (HOA) approval?" It says: "If you have an HOA, find out if you have to get its approval to install a system."
What we do not say
We do not give permit steps, fees, or HOA rules, and we do not say what your state allows.
This is general information, not tax, financial, legal, or engineering advice.
Sources: 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: comparing bids
What a bid should say.
