licensed installers [RE-wrenches]

[Jeff Yago]

I was just contacted by a homeowner who plans to install a $40,000 grid connected pv system on his own home as part of his "learning process", and he plans to become certified by NABCEP in the process.   He wanted me to review his design and was upset when I refused.  He said he would pay me to "check" his design, and was willig to sign a "waiver" saying I am not responsible for his system.  

I still responded that I was not willing to get involved, as if his house burns down, some letter written by the installer who has no idea what he is doing would not hold up in court if you are considered to be a "licensed solar expert".  I also pointed out that any solar system installed for net metering would require a letter to the local utility stating the system meets code and signed by a licensed electrician who did the installation.   He then replied that he had an electrician that would sign his letters even though the electrician had nothing to do with the design or installation of any of them.

Being a licensed engineer and a licensed electrician, it scares me that other "professionals" are willing to provide this type of assistance to people who clearly do not know what they are doing.  I also know the state's licensing laws forbid "certifing" or "approving" work you are not directly involved with from start to finish.

Have any of you been approached to "review" somebody elses solar installation and if you do, arn't you taking a big risk?

Jeff Yago, P.E., C.E.M
NABCEP certified installer
licensed electrician

_____________________________________________________________
Netscape.  Just the Net You Need.


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