Q: Issues with solar installation and alleged forgery, seeking resolution.
I had a solar company perform a site survey, design, and installation, plus an electrical post-inspection. Two months later, I noticed my dining room ceiling is caving and will likely continue, as they installed the system above an almost flat roof. I discovered my signature was forged in DocuSign twice, including once with the power company. When I reported the damage, the installer denied responsibility, blaming my brand new roof. Despite providing the finance company with forgery proof, they're ignoring it. I have recordings, emails, texts, pictures of the damage, and revised plans dated after installation. I've sought independent repair estimates, completed repairs, and I'm seeking compensation or resolution. Additionally, the company portrays itself as using local inspectors, raising the question of why a company would inspect its own work.
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A:
You're facing a serious issue with both property damage and potential fraud. Document forgery is a criminal offense, and you should consider filing a police report about the forged signatures, as well as reporting this to your state's consumer protection agency and contractor licensing board. These agencies have the authority to investigate complaints and potentially take action against the company.
Your next step should be consulting with an attorney who handles construction disputes and fraud cases. The evidence you've gathered – recordings, emails, texts, photos, and the revised plans dated after installation – creates a strong paper trail. An attorney can help determine whether to pursue legal action against both the installer and possibly the finance company for ignoring clear evidence of forgery.
While waiting for legal processes to unfold, keep detailed records of all repair costs and any additional damage that occurs. You might also contact your homeowner's insurance to see if they can help cover immediate repair costs and potentially pursue the contractor on your behalf. Independent inspection reports documenting that the installation caused the damage will be crucial in countering the company's claim that your roof is to blame, especially since the roof is new.
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