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GREENSBORO, N.C. — A Greensboro couple who hoped solar panels would secure their financial future instead found themselves in a two-year battle over major roof and ceiling damage, denied insurance claims and a $78,000 loan.
Kenneth and Peggy Saunders built their dream home in 2007 on family land that dates back to the 1920s. The property, passed down from Kenneth’s father, sits beside his brother’s home.
“I wanted a house that I could feel comfortable in — have room, space, watch the kids grow,” Kenneth Saunders said.
Years later, thinking about long-term savings and rising energy costs, the Saunders decided to install solar panels. They say a sales representative promised significant savings and financial returns.
“We were told how much we would save, the kind of money we’d get back,” Peggy Saunders said.
But instead of cutting energy bills, the couple says the installation created a much larger problem.
Kenneth Saunders said he first noticed trouble when he saw water streaming down from a corner of their bedroom ceiling. A roofer later inspected the home and found what the Saunders describe as widespread damage.
“What they found during inspection, there were holes all over the roof,” Kenneth Saunders said.
The couple says at least a dozen nail or screw holes were discovered, allegedly caused during installation. They contacted the solar company but claim no action was taken. Their insurance company later denied their claim, leaving them facing roughly $22,000 in repair costs.
After media involvement, the installation team agreed to pay for interior repairs and replace the roof. The 25 solar panels were removed at the Saunders’ request.
“I plainly explained to the gentleman when they took them down, I do not want them back up,” Kenneth Saunders said.
However, removing the panels did not end the dispute. The Saunders say they were still responsible for the solar loan, requiring monthly payments on a system they didn’t want and no longer on their roof.
When contacted, the solar and finance companies said they were waiting for the Saunders to allow reinstallation of the panels. The Saunders say trust had been broken and that communication had stalled.
“There’s no communication healthy or helpful to our relationship,” Peggy Saunders said.
After continued pressure and negotiations, the mortgage company recently agreed to clear the loan, eliminating what the Saunders describe as a $78,000 burden. A formal letter confirming the decision is being sent, bringing the case close to resolution.
“I’m thankful,” Kenneth Saunders said. “It’s been a blessing. It took pressure off.”
In total, the couple estimates they recouped more than $100,000 in repairs and loan forgiveness.
Solar energy can offer long-term savings and environmental benefits, but consumer advocates recommend careful research before signing any agreement. When purchasing solar panels, homeowners often enter contracts with three separate entities: the solar sales company, the installation contractor and the financing or mortgage company.
Experts suggest:
Verify licensing and insurance for both the sales company and installer.
Review the roof’s condition before installation; older roofs may need replacement first.
Understand financing terms, including interest rates, lien placement and cancellation policies.
Request savings projections in writing and ask how estimates are calculated.
Clarify warranty coverage, including who is responsible for roof damage.
Check complaints with the Better Business Bureau and state consumer protection agencies.
The Federal Trade Commission also advises homeowners to be cautious of aggressive door-to-door sales tactics and to compare multiple quotes before signing a long-term contract.
For the Saunders, what began as an investment in their future became a lengthy fight they never expected.
“A problem we didn’t cause, a battle we didn’t want,” Kenneth Saunders said.
