Hi guys,
I just got solar through a company and the subcontractor who did the installation told me that if anyone I know want to do it, he can do the same one for less.
That got me wonder, is it legal/beneficial to get solar installed directly by the subcontractor as it will save some cost from going through the middle man?
The pro is obviously the lower cost. But is there any risk from dealing directly with the subcontractor?
Would love to know what you guys think.
Get Solar Installed by Company Vs Directly through Subcontractor NSW
wayne7190 on 05/07/2020 - 12:24
Last edited 05/07/2020 - 12:32
Last edited 05/07/2020 - 12:32
Comments
Sorry I forgot to mention. I'm in NSW
The subcontractor is also a company. There should be no difference.
What I wonder is as there's no difference at the installation stage. Wouldn't it be better if we just requested a quote from the "solar companies" and then contact these "subcontractor for the installation". It would definitely cost less but then what am I missing out if I'm doing it this way?
Depends on solar company history. If they been around for 15 years and there some a large install base and the subcontractor's been around for 2 or 3 years. Take your pick to save maybe $500 - $1000 at the retail level.
You don't think the subcontractor is going to give you a cheaper rate than they give the solar company or the same price. Otherwise they won't be giving you "the word".
You need to do research on this sub contractor.
The subbie is more likely to go out of the business than a company, and then bang goes your warranty
I would say warranty… but they are not worth anything with solar companies anyways…
The thing I wonder is when something to wrong, with a "normal company" I can go to ACCC for complaint. I wonder if it's the same with a subbie.
Obviously a "solar company" will have to worry more about their "reputation" so claiming warranty may be easier I guess? But besides that I'm not sure if there's anything else I should be aware off?
The reason I ask is because I'm looking to get solar for my mum house and some saving would be nice
Find out how long the subbie has been in business for and work out how much you'll be saving.
You may even get a better job with a subbie as he'll get 100% of what he charges you whereas the contractor will be paying him a lot less than they charge you as they have to cover a multitude of business and employee expenses.
Often the company will pay the subbie a low flat rate for all jobs as they can guarantee regular work but it's at a lower rate than the subbie would get working for themselves.
It isn't uncommon for the PCBU to take 30% to 70% of the total amount.
What state?