Nevada Solar Panel Fraud Demand Letters

NRS 624 Contractors | NRS 701B Solar Energy | NSCB Requirements | Small Claims: $10,000

Nevada Solar Panel Fraud Overview
Nevada Solar Growth: Nevada's abundant sunshine and net metering programs have made solar popular, but also attracted fraud. The Nevada State Contractors Board (NSCB) receives numerous complaints about solar installers. Nevada law provides strong protections including contractor licensing requirements, deceptive practice prohibitions, and the Residential Recovery Fund.
Common Solar Fraud Schemes in Nevada
Fraud Type Description Nevada Law Violated
Unlicensed installation Installer lacks required C-2 or C-2G license NRS 624.700 (misdemeanor)
Production misrepresentation Promising energy savings that panels can't deliver NRS 598.0915
Bait and switch Installing cheaper equipment than promised NRS 598.0915, breach of contract
Financing fraud Misrepresenting loan/lease terms, PACE liens NRS 598, federal TILA
Incomplete installation Taking payment but abandoning job NRS 624.3017 (abandonment)
Defective installation Roof leaks, fire hazards, code violations NRS 624 workmanship standards
High-pressure sales Deceptive door-to-door tactics NRS 598.250 (home solicitation)
Nevada Solar Contractor Requirements

All solar installers in Nevada must:

  • Hold proper license: C-2 Electrical with solar endorsement OR C-2G Photovoltaic license
  • Maintain bond: Performance bond filed with NSCB
  • Carry insurance: Workers comp and liability coverage
  • Pass examinations: Trade and business law exams
  • Pull permits: Building permits required for all installations
Verify License: Check contractor licenses at nscb.nv.gov or call (702) 486-1100. Get the exact license number, expiration date, and any disciplinary history. Contracts with unlicensed contractors are unenforceable in Nevada.
Warning Signs of Solar Fraud
Red Flags:
  • Won't provide license number in writing
  • Demands large upfront payment (>10-20%)
  • Pressure to sign immediately
  • Unrealistic energy savings promises
  • Verbal promises not in contract
  • No written contract or vague terms
  • No permit pulled for installation
  • Pushes PACE financing without explaining lien implications
Nevada Solar Contractor Legal Framework
NRS 624 - Nevada Contractors Law

NRS 624.220 - License Required

No person may engage in the business of contracting (including solar installation) without holding an active license from the State Contractors Board. Solar work requires:

  • C-2 Electrical: General electrical contractor with solar endorsement
  • C-2G Photovoltaic: Specialty license for solar installation

NRS 624.700 - Unlicensed Contracting

Acting as a contractor without a license is a misdemeanor. Additionally:

  • Unlicensed contractors cannot sue to enforce contracts
  • Unlicensed contractors cannot file mechanics liens
  • Homeowners may void contracts with unlicensed contractors
  • Payments made to unlicensed contractors may be recoverable
NRS 624.3017 - Abandonment

A contractor commits abandonment when they:

  • Fail to complete a project without lawful excuse
  • Fail to proceed with work in a timely manner
  • Leave the project for 30+ days without reasonable cause

Abandonment is grounds for license discipline, contract termination, and damages.

NRS 701B - Solar Energy Systems

NRS 701B governs renewable energy in Nevada, including:

Section Requirement
NRS 701B.200 Net metering program requirements
NRS 701B.250 Utility interconnection standards
NRS 701B.610 Solar energy system disclosures
NRS 701B.630 Lease/PPA disclosure requirements
NRS 598 - Deceptive Trade Practices

Solar companies violate NRS 598 when they:

Statute Violation Example
NRS 598.0915(1) False representation of characteristics Overstating energy production
NRS 598.0915(5) Bait and switch Installing cheaper panels than quoted
NRS 598.0915(7) Misrepresenting source/certification Fake equipment certifications
NRS 598.0915(9) False savings representations Guaranteed savings claims
NRS 598.250 - Home Solicitation Sales
3-Day Cancellation Right: If a solar contract was signed at your home (door-to-door sales), you have 3 business days to cancel under NRS 598.250. The seller must provide:
  • Written notice of cancellation right
  • Cancellation form in duplicate
  • Clear refund terms
Failure to provide these extends your cancellation right indefinitely.
Remedies Under Nevada Law
Remedy Source Amount/Limit
Actual damages Contract, NRS 598 Full losses incurred
Treble damages NRS 598.0963 3x actual, max $5,000
Attorney fees NRS 598.0993 Reasonable fees if prevail
NSCB Recovery Fund NRS 624.470 Up to $40,000
Contract rescission Common law, NRS 598.250 Full refund
Evidence for Solar Fraud Claims
Essential Documents
Document Purpose Where to Get
Signed contract Shows promised equipment, price, terms Your records
Sales presentation materials May show exaggerated savings claims Brochures, emails, proposals
Energy production estimates Compare to actual production Sales documents, monitoring data
Equipment specifications Compare to what was installed Installed panel labels, inverter info
Payment records Proves amounts paid Bank statements, cancelled checks
Permits (or lack thereof) Shows if permit was pulled County building department
Utility bills Shows actual savings vs. promised NV Energy records
NSCB license verification Confirms contractor status nscb.nv.gov
Production Evidence
Monitoring Data: Most solar systems have monitoring showing actual production. Export this data and compare to:
  • Production estimates in your contract
  • Sales rep's verbal promises (document these)
  • Industry-standard production for your system size
A significant shortfall (20%+ under estimates) supports claims for misrepresentation.
Equipment Verification

To verify installed equipment matches contract:

  • Check panel brand/model on labels (usually on back of panels)
  • Check inverter model number
  • Count number of panels installed
  • Compare wattage ratings to contract specifications
  • Photograph all equipment labels
Documentation Checklist
Before Sending Demand:
  • Complete signed contract with all attachments
  • All sales materials and proposals
  • Payment receipts and financing documents
  • Photos of installed equipment and labels
  • Monitoring data showing production
  • Utility bills before and after installation
  • All emails and communications
  • NSCB license verification printout
  • Permit records from building department
  • Any inspection reports or deficiency notices
Calculating Damages
Damage Type Calculation Example
Defective workmanship Cost to repair/replace $8,000 roof repair
Production shortfall Lost energy value over system life $200/year x 25 years = $5,000
Equipment downgrade Difference in equipment value $3,000 cheaper panels installed
Abandoned job Cost to complete with new contractor $12,000 completion costs
Permit/code violations Cost to bring into compliance $2,500 electrical corrections
Get Independent Assessment: For complex claims, hire an independent solar consultant or electrician to assess your system and document deficiencies. Their report strengthens your case and helps quantify damages.
Sample Nevada Solar Fraud Demand Letters
Sample 1: Defective Installation / Workmanship
[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, NV ZIP] [Email] [Phone] [Date] [Solar Company Name] [Address] [City, State ZIP] Via Certified Mail, Return Receipt Requested Re: Demand for Repair/Refund - Defective Solar Installation Property: [Your Address] Contract Date: [Date] Installation Date: [Date] Contractor License: [Number] Contract Amount: $[Amount] Dear [Solar Company]: I am writing to demand immediate repair of defective workmanship and/or refund of amounts paid for the solar installation at my property. BACKGROUND: On [Date], I contracted with [Company Name] for installation of a solar energy system at [Address]. The contract price was $[Amount]. Installation was completed on [Date]. DEFECTS AND VIOLATIONS: Since installation, I have discovered the following defects: 1. ROOF DAMAGE/LEAKS: [Describe - water intrusion, improper mounting, damaged shingles, etc.] 2. ELECTRICAL DEFICIENCIES: [Describe - code violations, improper wiring, inverter issues, etc.] 3. UNDERPERFORMANCE: The system produces [Actual]% less energy than the [Promised amount] guaranteed in the contract. My monitoring data shows [actual production]. Your sales documents promised [promised production]. 4. PERMIT/INSPECTION ISSUES: [If applicable: No permit was pulled / Inspection failed / Code violations cited] NEVADA LAW VIOLATIONS: 1. NRS 624 WORKMANSHIP STANDARDS: Licensed contractors must perform work meeting industry standards. The defects described above fall below minimum acceptable workmanship and violate your license obligations. 2. NRS 598.0915 - DECEPTIVE TRADE PRACTICES: Your representations about system performance and quality were false and misleading, violating Nevada's Deceptive Trade Practices Act. 3. BREACH OF CONTRACT: You failed to deliver the system as specified in our contract, breaching your contractual obligations. DAMAGES: I have incurred or will incur the following damages: 1. Roof repair costs: $[Amount] 2. Electrical corrections: $[Amount] 3. Lost energy production value: $[Amount] 4. Inspection/consultant fees: $[Amount] TOTAL: $[Amount] DEMAND: I demand within fourteen (14) days: 1. OPTION A: Complete repair of all defects at your expense, bringing the system into full compliance with contract specifications, building codes, and industry standards; OR 2. OPTION B: Refund of $[Amount], representing [full contract price / repair costs / damages] CONSEQUENCES OF NON-COMPLIANCE: If you fail to respond and remedy this situation, I will: 1. File a complaint with the Nevada State Contractors Board seeking license discipline 2. File a claim with the NSCB Residential Recovery Fund 3. File suit in Nevada Justice Court seeking damages, treble damages under NRS 598.0963, and attorney fees 4. Report your practices to the Nevada Attorney General I prefer to resolve this without litigation. Please contact me within 7 days to discuss resolution. Sincerely, [Your Signature] [Your Name] Enclosures: - Copy of contract - Photos of defects - Production monitoring data - Inspection reports - Payment records
Sample 2: Unlicensed Contractor
[Your Name] [Address] [City, NV ZIP] [Date] [Solar Company/Individual Name] [Address] Via Certified Mail Re: Demand for Full Refund - Unlicensed Contracting Property: [Your Address] Contract Date: [Date] Amount Paid: $[Amount] NSCB Verification Date: [Date of license check] Dear [Name]: I am writing to demand immediate full refund of all amounts paid for solar installation work performed without the required Nevada contractor's license. UNLICENSED STATUS CONFIRMED: On [Date], I verified with the Nevada State Contractors Board that [Company/Individual Name] does not hold a valid license to perform electrical or photovoltaic installation work in Nevada. Specifically: - License number provided: [Number or "None provided"] - NSCB search result: [No license found / License expired / License does not cover solar work] NEVADA LAW: Under NRS 624.700, it is a misdemeanor to act as a contractor without a license. More importantly for you: 1. CONTRACTS UNENFORCEABLE: Contracts for work requiring a license, entered into with unlicensed contractors, are void and unenforceable under Nevada law. 2. NO LIEN RIGHTS: Unlicensed contractors cannot file mechanics liens. 3. CRIMINAL LIABILITY: Unlicensed contracting is a misdemeanor punishable by fines and potential jail time. YOUR EXPOSURE: By performing solar installation work without a license, you have: - Committed a criminal offense - Rendered our contract void - Exposed yourself to civil liability for all amounts paid - Potentially created safety hazards at my property DEMAND: I demand full refund of $[Amount] within fourteen (14) days. This represents all payments made for work you were legally prohibited from performing. CONSEQUENCES: If you fail to refund: 1. I will report your unlicensed activity to the Nevada State Contractors Board 2. I will file a complaint with the Nevada Attorney General 3. I will file suit for recovery of all amounts paid plus damages 4. I will report the matter to local law enforcement for criminal prosecution You have no legal right to retain payment for work you were not licensed to perform. Refund immediately. Sincerely, [Your Name] [Phone] Enclosure: NSCB license verification showing no valid license
Sample 3: Production Misrepresentation
[Your Name] [Address] [City, NV ZIP] [Date] [Solar Company Name] [Address] Via Certified Mail and Email Re: Demand for Compensation - False Energy Production Claims System Address: [Address] Installation Date: [Date] Promised Production: [kWh/year] Actual Production: [kWh/year] Shortfall: [Percentage]% Dear [Solar Company]: I am writing regarding your false and misleading representations about the energy production of my solar system, which constitutes fraud and deceptive trade practices under Nevada law. THE MISREPRESENTATIONS: Before and during the sale, your representatives made the following claims: 1. "[Quote specific promise about energy production]" 2. "[Quote specific promise about bill elimination/reduction]" 3. "[Quote specific promise about savings]" These representations were made [in writing in the proposal / verbally by sales rep [Name] / in your marketing materials]. I relied on these representations in deciding to purchase. ACTUAL PERFORMANCE: After [Number] months of operation, my system has produced only [Actual kWh], which is [Percentage]% below your guaranteed/promised production of [Promised kWh]. Monitoring data is attached showing: - Monthly production vs. estimates - Weather-adjusted expectations - Consistent underperformance YOUR REPRESENTATIONS WERE FALSE: 1. KNEW OR SHOULD HAVE KNOWN: Based on my roof orientation, shading, and system size, you knew or should have known that the promised production was impossible to achieve. 2. INDUSTRY STANDARDS: Industry-standard calculators (PVWatts, etc.) for my location and system show expected production of [Amount], far below your claims. 3. PATTERN OF DECEPTION: [If known: Other customers have reported similar false promises.] NEVADA LAW VIOLATIONS: 1. NRS 598.0915(1): False representation of the characteristics of services 2. NRS 598.0915(9): Misrepresenting that services will meet a particular standard 3. NRS 598.0923: Knowingly making false statements to induce purchase DEMAND: I demand within fourteen (14) days: 1. Compensation of $[Amount] representing the value of energy production shortfall over the system warranty period; OR 2. System upgrade at your expense to equipment capable of meeting promised production; OR 3. Contract rescission and full refund of $[Contract Amount] I prefer Option 1 or 2 if they can be achieved. I am open to discussing reasonable resolution. CONSEQUENCES: Failure to respond will result in: 1. NSCB complaint for deceptive practices 2. Nevada Attorney General consumer protection complaint 3. Civil action for actual damages plus treble damages under NRS 598.0963 4. Public reviews documenting your false production claims Respond within 14 days. Sincerely, [Your Name] Enclosures: - Sales proposal with production estimates - Monitoring data export - Utility bills - Contract
Filing Claims in Nevada
Nevada State Contractors Board Complaint
NSCB Complaint Process:
  • File online at nscb.nv.gov or call (702) 486-1100
  • Provide contract, payments, photos, communications
  • NSCB investigates and may hold hearing
  • Remedies: License discipline, fines, required repairs
  • Does NOT award you money damages directly
Residential Recovery Fund
NRS 624.470 - Recovery Fund Claims:
  • Covers claims against LICENSED contractors only
  • Maximum recovery: $40,000 per claimant
  • Must have unsatisfied judgment OR contractor bankruptcy OR NSCB order
  • File claim with NSCB within 1 year of qualifying event
  • Fund pays when contractor cannot/will not
Small Claims Court (Nevada Justice Court)
Factor Details
Dollar limit $10,000
Filing fee $50-$100
Attorney required No
Where to file Justice Court where work was performed
Clark County (Las Vegas area) Justice Courts
Court Phone
Las Vegas Justice Court (702) 455-4206
Henderson Justice Court (702) 455-7951
North Las Vegas Justice Court (702) 455-7801
Steps to File Claim
Step Action Timeline
1 Send demand letter Allow 14-30 days for response
2 File NSCB complaint Can file simultaneously with demand
3 File small claims if no resolution After demand period expires
4 Serve contractor Must be served before hearing
5 Attend hearing Usually 30-60 days after filing
6 If judgment obtained, file Recovery Fund claim if needed Within 1 year of judgment
What to Bring to Court
  • All contracts and agreements (3 copies)
  • Payment records
  • Photos of defects or problems
  • Production monitoring data
  • Expert report if obtained
  • All communications
  • Demand letter with proof of mailing
  • NSCB license verification
  • Permit records
  • Repair estimates from other contractors
Statute of Limitations:
  • Written contract claims: 6 years (NRS 11.190)
  • Deceptive trade practices: 4 years (NRS 598.0963)
  • Construction defects: Complex rules under NRS 11.202-11.206
Don't delay - act promptly to preserve your claims.
Attorney Services - Nevada Solar Panel Fraud
Solar Installation Gone Wrong? Get Legal Help.

I help Nevada homeowners fight back against solar fraud, defective installations, and contractor misconduct. From demand letters to litigation, I know Nevada contractor law and consumer protection.

Services Offered
  • Demand letter drafting with NRS citations
  • NSCB complaint preparation
  • Recovery Fund claim assistance
  • Small claims court representation
  • Contract review and rescission analysis
  • Financing/PACE dispute assistance
  • Negotiation with solar companies
Fee Structures
Service Fee
Demand Letter Flat fee $450
NSCB Complaint + Demand $240/hr
Contingency (Strong Claims >$5,000) 33-40%
Why Nevada-Specific Experience Matters
Local Knowledge: Nevada solar fraud cases require understanding of:
  • NSCB complaint and discipline process
  • Residential Recovery Fund procedures
  • NRS 598 treble damage requirements
  • Nevada net metering and utility interconnection rules
  • Local building department permit requirements
  • Nevada construction defect statutes (NRS Chapter 40)
Schedule a Consultation

Book a call to discuss your solar fraud case. Bring your contract, photos of any defects, and production data. I'll assess your claim and recommend the most effective strategy for recovery.

Contact Information

Email: owner@terms.law

Frequently Asked Questions
Solar leases and PPAs are long-term contracts that can be difficult to exit. However, you may have grounds for rescission if: (1) you cancelled within 3 days under NRS 598.250, (2) the company made material misrepresentations, (3) required disclosures under NRS 701B were not provided, or (4) the contract terms are unconscionable. Review your specific agreement with an attorney.
File a claim with the NSCB Residential Recovery Fund (up to $40,000) if the company was licensed. File a proof of claim in any bankruptcy proceedings. Your equipment warranties may be manufacturer warranties that survive the installer's closure. Document all issues now in case the company assets are later available for creditor claims.
The solar installer is typically liable for roof damage caused by improper installation. Document the leak with photos, get a roofing contractor assessment, and demand the solar company repair the roof at their expense. If they refuse, file a NSCB complaint and small claims action. The solar contractor's liability insurance should cover this damage.
PACE (Property Assessed Clean Energy) financing places a lien on your property secured by property taxes. Unlike regular loans, PACE debt: (1) must be paid when selling, (2) can lead to foreclosure for non-payment, (3) may not be assumed by buyers. Many homeowners don't understand these implications. If you were misled about PACE terms, you may have claims under NRS 598 and federal lending laws.
Contact your local building department (Clark County, Washoe County, etc.) and ask for permit records for your address. They can tell you if permits were pulled and passed final inspection. Unpermitted work is a serious problem: it may void insurance, create code violations, and complicate home sales. If no permit was pulled, add this to your demand letter.
It depends on what was promised and why bills are higher. If the installer guaranteed specific savings and documented this in writing, underperformance may support a fraud claim. Get monitoring data to check actual production. Causes of shortfall may include: undersized system, excessive shading, equipment defects, or unrealistic initial estimates. Compare actual production to industry-standard estimates (PVWatts) for your location.

Related Nevada Demand Letter Resources