We spoke to someone yesterday about getting solar panels installed.
After a very long and extensive presentation, which could have been done in less than half the time, we were quoted a price that took our breath away. The sales man then offered all sorts of 'discounts' if we would sign up straight away, agree to have a board put up outside our house, etc. etc.
This still left the price at just over €10k for a relatively modest 4 bed semi. We were told that this was the maximum price and that they could carry out a full inspection that might indicate that it could be done more cost effectively e.g. by having all the panels on one side of the roof rather than having to go for an 'east-west' configuration. (Our back garden is south west facing.)
We were told that getting this inspection done would not put us under any obligation, but we were then asked to pay a deposit that would be refundable against the work carried out. The sales man repeated that there would be no obligation on our part, but then said that if we decide not to go ahead, the deposit would be refunded less any costs incurred in carrying out the inspection.
He was a very personable chap with a likable manner (as they tend to be), but I have to say that I found the selling process way too high pressured and in spite of several statements from him that we should take our time about it and not feel under any pressure, he could only hold the 'discounts' until next Monday.
I don't know if I should name the company, but their credentials seem very good and the sales man claims that they are the market leader. However, the cost seems to be excessive and I didn't like the selling process, which at times reminded me of Glengarry Glen Ross.
I'd welcome any thoughts on how we should proceed.
By way of background, I should say that we support the 'green' agenda and would take environmental factors into account as well as financial ones when we are making a final decision.
After a very long and extensive presentation, which could have been done in less than half the time, we were quoted a price that took our breath away. The sales man then offered all sorts of 'discounts' if we would sign up straight away, agree to have a board put up outside our house, etc. etc.
This still left the price at just over €10k for a relatively modest 4 bed semi. We were told that this was the maximum price and that they could carry out a full inspection that might indicate that it could be done more cost effectively e.g. by having all the panels on one side of the roof rather than having to go for an 'east-west' configuration. (Our back garden is south west facing.)
We were told that getting this inspection done would not put us under any obligation, but we were then asked to pay a deposit that would be refundable against the work carried out. The sales man repeated that there would be no obligation on our part, but then said that if we decide not to go ahead, the deposit would be refunded less any costs incurred in carrying out the inspection.
He was a very personable chap with a likable manner (as they tend to be), but I have to say that I found the selling process way too high pressured and in spite of several statements from him that we should take our time about it and not feel under any pressure, he could only hold the 'discounts' until next Monday.
I don't know if I should name the company, but their credentials seem very good and the sales man claims that they are the market leader. However, the cost seems to be excessive and I didn't like the selling process, which at times reminded me of Glengarry Glen Ross.
I'd welcome any thoughts on how we should proceed.
By way of background, I should say that we support the 'green' agenda and would take environmental factors into account as well as financial ones when we are making a final decision.