Consumer, Building and Occupations Services (CBOS) is warning Tasmanians to use caution when installing solar panels, particularly for systems being sold by door-to-door salespeople.
Installers fitting these systems must have a licence to operate in Tasmania. The main risk of unlicensed people installing panels and associated electrical work is serious electrical faults, which can cause fires and shocks.
Consumers should also be aware that using unlicensed people to install solar panels will make the work ineligible for Federal Government rebates.
Solar panels must be installed by an electrician who has accreditation with the Clean Energy Council. Consumers will also incur the additional costs of engaging a separate licensed electrician to inspect and fix any unlicensed electrical work.
“Protect yourself from electrical risks and repair expenses. Check the installer is licensed in Tasmania as a contractor and an electrician by going to the CBOS website, doing a licence search and checking the installer has Clean Energy Council accreditation,” Administrator of Occupational Licensing, Peter Graham said.
After installation, consumers should receive a copy of the Certificate of Electrical Compliance that the installer is required to submit. A compliance inspection will then be organised by TechSafe Australia on behalf of CBOS.
Australian Consumer Law covers aspects of door-to-door sales including cooling off periods, contracts and other general rules around selling goods and services.
If you have a problem with your solar panels you should first go back to the installer to discuss and try to resolve the problem. If you are unable to find a solution, you can contact CBOS for advice by calling 1300 654 499 or by going to https://www.cbos.tas.gov.au/
To report anyone performing unlicensed, illegal or defective work, contact CBOS.
