GUILFORD COUNTY, N.C. — Sandra Via said she did her research and saw the company had good reviews but two months after getting her solar panels installed she saw Encor Solar's Better Business Bureau rating go down to two stars.
Along with 230 complaints filed in the last 12 months.
"They installed the panels in a couple of weeks they were quick and efficient," Via said.
Business between Sandra Via and Encor Solar started off pretty good.
"They've been sitting there ever since," Via said.
And just like that the connection between Encor and Via went dark for six months.
"At this point, we're texting once a week trying to get an update. I finally asked to talk to someone on the phone," Via said. "We called in early Jan. She was the most helpful person we talked to she said it looks like your permit has lapsed."
Via said the permit expired after waiting months for Encor to send a contractor out to get the panels up and running.
A rep told her they'd work things out. But when she called to follow up last week she learned the company closed.
"Due to unresolvable economic conditions Encor Solar has been forced to close its doors for good" the voicemail said when WFMY News 2 called to try to get answers.
"I can't believe this," Via said. "You want to do what's right and be environmentally conscious and you go through all the right steps but have no one communicate with you. It was gut-wrenching."
Via is now left to pay back the $30,000 loan she took out thinking she'd get a return on investment and save on her energy bill.
"To hopefully make a little back to put into the panels or to put into something else," Via said.
Via isn't the only homeowner left in the cold.
Melanie Fox with the Better Business Bureau said they're familiar with Encor Solar.
"We've had tons of complaints saying they can't get them on the phone," Fox said. "They won't respond to any e-mails."
Fox said it's unlikely folks will get all their money back but she has these suggestions:
- First, If you paid with a credit card, get the charge disputed with your bank.
- You could also see if the company filed for bankruptcy and take them to court.
- Get an attorney and check your options that way.
- Fox also suggests contacting your power company.
"To see if they have any other recommendations for a solar company," Fox said.
Via although drained of her energy, wont stop fighting.
"They need to be held accountable in some way," Via said. "Even if it's just word of the mouth and people know not to go with this kind of company. I feel bamboozled."
Encore is out of business but the BBB said other solar companies are doing the same thing.
Fox said to look out for the warning signs and do your research.