Can I get out of my solar contract?

Yes, many solar contracts contain violations of consumer protection laws, misrepresentations, or fraud that provide legal grounds for cancellation. Our attorneys review your specific contract to identify exit options.

What if my solar company went bankrupt?

We help homeowners with orphaned solar systems navigate their options, including contract termination, lien removal, and warranty claims. Over 100 solar companies have gone bankrupt since 2023.

How much does it cost to cancel a solar contract?

We offer free consultations and work on contingency for qualifying cases. You don't pay unless we successfully resolve your case.

How long does solar contract cancellation take?

Most cases are resolved within 3-6 months, depending on the complexity and the solar company's response. Some cases may resolve faster through negotiation.

What states does Solar Exit Law serve?

We serve homeowners in Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Jersey, North Carolina, and Texas.

Navigating Your Exit: A Homeowner's Guide to Canceling a Sunnova Solar Lease

Sunnova's bankruptcy has left many homeowners in a state of uncertainty. If you're dealing with escalating payments, poor service, or an underperforming system, you may have options.

Sunnova Energy International Inc., once a titan of the residential solar industry, has cast a long shadow of doubt by filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. For the thousands of homeowners bound by long-term solar leases and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), this development creates a vortex of questions about contract stability, system maintenance, and financial obligations. This guide is for Sunnova customers who are exploring their options for contract cancellation in light of these significant challenges.

Common Grievances Against Sunnova

The bankruptcy filing is the latest in a series of issues reported by Sunnova customers. Recognizing these common problems is the first step toward building a case for terminating your agreement.

Bankruptcy and Service Uncertainty: A Chapter 11 reorganization may allow Sunnova to continue operating, but it often results in service disruptions. Warranty claims, system repairs, and customer support can become unreliable as the company navigates its financial turmoil.
Aggressive Escalator Clauses: Many Sunnova contracts feature an "escalator clause" that increases your monthly payment by a fixed percentage (often 2.9%) annually. Over a 25-year term, this compounding increase can make your solar payments drastically more expensive than your original utility bill.
Subpar Subcontractor Workmanship: Sunnova's reliance on a network of third-party installers has been a source of widespread complaints. Homeowners report issues like roof damage, faulty wiring, underperforming systems, and a frustrating blame-game between Sunnova and its subcontractors when problems arise.
Complex and Misleading PPA Terms: Power Purchase Agreements are inherently complex. Many customers find themselves confused about critical terms, including system ownership, end-of-lease buyout options, and the true, often escalating, cost of the energy they are purchasing.

Your Step-by-Step Guide to Sunnova Contract Cancellation

Terminating a solar contract is a serious legal step, made more complex by Sunnova's bankruptcy. A methodical approach is essential.

1
Document Everything Meticulously: Create a comprehensive file of your entire history with Sunnova. This includes your original contract, all email and written correspondence, photographs of any property damage, and detailed records of your system's energy production (or lack thereof) compared to what was promised.
2
Issue a Formal Notice of Breach: Before you can legally terminate, you must send a formal, written notice to Sunnova detailing their breach of contract. This letter should specify their failures (e.g., failure to honor warranty, system underperformance) and reference the corresponding sections of your agreement, giving them a reasonable time to "cure" the defaults.
3
Understand the Bankruptcy Implications: The Chapter 11 filing imposes an "automatic stay," which pauses most legal actions against Sunnova. Your dispute will likely need to be addressed within the framework of the bankruptcy court. It is vital to understand how your claim as a consumer will be handled in these proceedings.
4
Consult with a Specialized Solar Contract Attorney: Navigating a contract dispute with a bankrupt corporation is not a DIY project. A law firm specializing in solar contract litigation can analyze your situation, identify violations of consumer protection laws, and represent your interests with Sunnova and the bankruptcy court to secure your freedom from the contract.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens to my Sunnova warranty now that they've filed for bankruptcy?

While Sunnova is required to honor warranties during its Chapter 11 reorganization, service can be delayed or disrupted. Document any warranty claims in writing, as you may need to file a claim with the bankruptcy court if the issue is not resolved.

Can I just stop making my Sunnova payments?

No. Unilaterally stopping payments is a breach of your contract and can harm your credit. You must follow the formal dispute and termination procedures outlined in your agreement and as required by law.

My solar panels aren't producing as much energy as promised. Can I cancel?

This is a potential breach of contract. Most solar agreements contain a performance guarantee. If your system consistently underperforms and Sunnova fails to fix it after being formally notified, you may have grounds for termination.

What is an "escalator clause" in my Sunnova contract?

An escalator or escalator clause is a contract term that increases your monthly payment at a predetermined rate, typically annually. This can significantly increase your costs over the 20-25 year life of the agreement.

How can a lawyer help me with my Sunnova lease?

An experienced solar attorney can analyze your contract for predatory clauses, assess whether Sunnova has breached the agreement, and represent you in negotiations or legal proceedings, including navigating the complexities of the bankruptcy court, to seek a fair resolution.

Feeling Trapped by Your Sunnova Lease?

You don't have to navigate Sunnova's bankruptcy and your contract issues alone. Our experienced legal team specializes in holding solar companies accountable and freeing homeowners from predatory agreements.