Hidden Solar Leases Are Trapping Homebuyers — What You Must Know Before You Sign
Solar power promises lower energy bills and a greener future. But for some California homebuyers, it’s turning into a financial nightmare. Here’s how leased solar panels could sabotage your dream home.
Imagine this: You’ve found the perfect home—beautiful backyard, a view of the delta, even solar panels ready to save you money. But what if those panels come with a leased contract you didn’t sign up for?
Companies like Sunrun and other third-party providers often install solar systems under lease agreements, not outright sales. While it sounds attractive—“no upfront cost”—the reality can be far more expensive than it seems.
Here’s the hidden trap:
☑ Monthly Lease Payments: These can quietly exceed any electricity savings, especially if utility rates stabilize.
☑ Early Termination Fees: Selling your home before the lease ends? Be ready to pay thousands in cancellation penalties.
☑ Maintenance & Repairs: That responsibility falls on you, not the solar company.
Due Diligence Beyond the Surface
Even thorough buyers can get blindsided. A preliminary title report might not reveal these obligations.
Croskey Real Estate recommends:
☑ UCC Filings Checks: To uncover liens tied to leased panels.
☑ Escrow & Title Cross-Checks: To ensure no hidden agreements follow you after closing.
Croskey Real Estate recommends:
☑ UCC Filings Checks: To uncover liens tied to leased panels.
☑ Escrow & Title Cross-Checks: To ensure no hidden agreements follow you after closing.
Why This Matters
Inheriting a solar lease isn’t just an annoyance—it can jeopardize your financing, increase debt-to-income ratios, and complicate resale.
A dream home with a solar “bonus” shouldn’t turn into a liability.
Expert Advice
“At Croskey Real Estate, we don’t just sell houses—we protect homeowners from costly oversights. Solar panels are great, but only if the fine print doesn’t ruin your budget,”
says the Croskey team.
Before you fall in love...
Before you fall in love with the view, check the lease.
Ensure your sunny new home doesn’t come with a hidden contract attached to the roof.