Key takeaway
Most likely, yes. Whether you can cancel a solar contract in Massachusetts, and how easy it is, depends on where you are in the project. Before work starts, it's usually simple. Once permits are filed or equipment is ordered, your contract may say you owe for work already done. After installation, it's much harder.
Who this guide is for: Massachusetts homeowners who signed a solar contract and are having second thoughts, or who want to know their options before they sign.
Signed a solar contract and having second thoughts? You're not alone. Maybe you felt rushed, the numbers don't sit right, or a friend told you to get a second opinion.
The short answer is that you can most likely cancel. The real question is where your project is right now, because that changes how easy it is and what it might cost.
At a glance
| Just signed | Usually the easiest time to cancel |
| Site survey or design | Usually still possible. Check your contract for any costs |
| Permits filed | Often possible. You may owe for work already done |
| Equipment ordered or install scheduled | Harder. Expect costs spelled out in your contract |
| Installed | Much harder. Options come from your contract |
Can I cancel a solar contract in Massachusetts?
Most likely, yes, depending on where you are in the project. Solar isn't a one-day purchase. There are weeks or months between signing and turning the system on, with a lot of steps in between. The earlier you are in that process, the easier it is to cancel.
Your contract is the rulebook. Look for a section called cancellation or termination. It should explain how to cancel and what, if anything, you'd owe at each stage.
Can I cancel right after signing?
This is the easiest time. Nothing has been designed, permitted or ordered yet, so there's usually little or nothing to unwind. If you're having doubts, don't wait. Contact the company in writing right away.
Can I cancel after the site survey or design?
Usually, yes. At this point the company has visited your home and may have started a final design. Some contracts let you cancel without any cost at this stage. Others list design or survey costs you'd be responsible for. Check your contract so there are no surprises.
Can I cancel after permits are filed?
Often, yes. Once town permits and the utility application with Eversource or National Grid are filed, real work has been done on your project. Your contract may say you owe for some of it.
It's still far easier now than after installation. If you're leaning toward canceling, now is better than later.
Second-guessing your solar contract?
Send it to Mark before you decide. He'll review it and tell you honestly whether it's a good deal or worth walking away from.
Mark, review my quoteCan I cancel once equipment is ordered or install is scheduled?
It's possible, but harder. Equipment may already be on its way and crews scheduled for your home. Expect your contract to spell out costs you'd owe if you cancel at this point. Ask the company for those numbers in writing before you decide.
Can I cancel after the panels are installed?
This is the hardest point. Once the system is on your roof, canceling usually isn't a simple option. What's possible depends on your contract and how you're paying:
- Lease or PPA: some contracts include a buyout option, and most explain how the agreement transfers if you sell your home.
- You own the system: the system is yours, so the question becomes how you're paying for it, not canceling the solar itself.
If something about your system isn't right, like low production or a problem with the install, the better path is usually to get it fixed. Call the company you signed with and put your concerns in writing.
How do I cancel a solar contract?
- Read the cancellation section of your contract so you know the steps and any costs.
- Contact the company in writing. Email works, and a mailed letter to the address in your contract is even better. A phone call alone isn't enough.
- Keep copies of everything you send and receive.
- Ask what you'd owe, if anything, and get the answer in writing.
- Get written confirmation that your contract is canceled.
Should I cancel, or just get a second opinion?
A lot of second thoughts come from not being sure about the numbers. Before you cancel, it's worth checking whether the deal is actually bad or just confusing.
- Learn how to read a solar quote section by section
- Check if your solar quote is a good deal
- Go through these questions to ask before signing a solar contract
Sometimes the fix is a resized system or a corrected number, not canceling. And if you keep the contract, it helps to know what happens after you sign so nothing catches you off guard.
What if I think I was misled?
Start by putting your concerns in writing to the company. If that doesn't resolve it, you can file a complaint with the Massachusetts Attorney General's consumer protection office.
Not sure whether to keep your contract?
Send it to Mark. He'll look it over and tell you what he'd do in your shoes.
Mark, review my quoteFAQs About Canceling a Solar Contract
Can I cancel a solar contract before installation?
Most likely, yes. Before anything is installed is the easiest time to cancel. Depending on how far along the project is, your contract may say you owe for work already done, like design or permits.
Will I have to pay a fee to cancel a solar contract?
It depends on your contract and timing. Early on, there's often little or nothing to pay. Once design, permits or equipment orders are underway, your contract may list costs you're responsible for.
Can I cancel a solar contract after the panels are installed?
It's much harder once the system is on your roof. Your options usually come from the contract itself, like a buyout or transfer. Often the better move is to fix whatever is bothering you about the deal.
Who can I contact if I think I was misled?
Start with the company, in writing. If that doesn't resolve it, you can file a complaint with the Massachusetts Attorney General's consumer protection office.
About Mark Featherstone
Mark has been in solar for 14+ years, working at some of the biggest solar companies in the country, before co-founding Your World Solutions. His goal is simple: help homeowners get into solar deals that actually work for them, and make sure they understand every part of it before they sign.
This article is for general informational purposes only and isn't legal or tax advice. Every home, quote and contract is different, and production, savings, timelines and program rules vary and can change. Read your own contract carefully and talk with a qualified professional before making a decision.