Pushing back against everything from native lawns to clotheslines, homeowners associations have earned quite the reputation as obstacles to cost-effective upgrades that also benefit the planet.
One HOA made a Reddit user jump through hoops to get approval for their solar panels — and the process has left them increasingly confused.
The North Carolina homeowner explained in the r/solar subreddit that their state's efforts to protect their rights to solar energy appear to have fallen flat after their HOA denied their request to install panels on the south part of their house, which faces the street.
They said their HOA took weeks to respond before approving their project. That wasn't the end of it, though. "An hour after I got the approval, the HOA management sends another email to hold off, they got 2 no votes," the original poster said. "4 days later, I notice the portal has an approval."
If you find yourself in a similar situation, you might have success working with your HOA. However, many states, like this Reddit poster's, have laws ensuring your right to solar.
You can check out The Cool Down's Solar Explorer to discover your options and save big on solar panels (up to ten grand on installations).
After reaching out to their HOA and receiving no response, the poster sent the approval letter to their solar provider to confirm their project was a go. Oddly, the HOA board later contacted them, saying it didn't like the way the solar panels looked and would consult with an attorney.
In the OP's case, other Reddit users suggested they should rally their neighbors against the HOA, as well as seek legal counsel.
Save $10,000 on solar panels — or get them on your roof without paying for purchase or installation Whatever your solar budget, Palmetto can help you save. If you want to buy your own panels, Palmetto's concierge advisors can help you save up to $10,000 on installation through a network of preferred installers. And if you'd rather get solar savings without upfront costs, Palmetto's revolutionary LightReach subscription program can deliver. LightReach lets you lease solar panels with no money down, making it painless to lock in long-term savings. Palmetto covers a 25-year warranty for the panels, which means you'll get reliable performance without unforeseen costs. To get started, just answer a few basic questions about your home and connect with Palmetto's experts to find the option that's right for you. |
"Have your attorney countersue for install cost, lost credits, and legal fees to spice things up," one person suggested. "I'm sure your neighbors would love that the HOA board is throwing away their dues to unnecessary lawsuits."
"Good luck. Dealing with HOAs is frustrating at best," another wrote.
|
What's the biggest thing stopping you from going solar? Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. |
The cost 💵 While this homeowner's solar journey hit a roadblock, whether you have an HOA or not, TCD's Solar Explorer can simplify your solar journey.
Whether you're interested in leasing panels through a $0 down subscription service, such as Palmetto's LightReach program, or purchasing your panels outright through a company like EnergySage, you can find the right system for your home and budget with the Solar Explorer.
Similarly, TCD's HVAC Explorer can empower you to make the most of your new, reliable solar power through home electrification and slash your heating and cooling costs by up to 50%. Plus, Palmetto's free Home app can also help you snag up to $5,000 in rewards for home upgrades.
💰Get TCD's free newsletters for easy tips to save more, waste less, and make smarter choices — and earn up to $5,000 toward clean upgrades in TCD's exclusive Rewards Club.
Cool Picks
