What Happened to Daybreak Solar? A Guide for Homeowners

Ever feel like you were promised sunshine and instead got left in the dark? …What about with your solar panel investment?

Making the switch to solar is a big decision, one that’s supposed to leave you with a sense of security and a smaller carbon footprint. But if you’re a former Daybreak Solar customer, you might be feeling anything but secure right now. 🙂

With complaints piling up and the company’s status in question, many homeowners are wondering what went wrong and what they can do about it.

You don’t have to navigate this alone. And you definitely deserve to understand your options.

When homeowners are left with faulty systems or unfulfilled warranties, it can feel like a significant financial blow. But there are consumer protection laws and legal avenues designed to help you.

Ready to understand what’s happening with Daybreak Solar and what steps you can take to protect your investment? This post will (hopefully) walk you through everything you need to know, from the company’s troubled history to the legal actions you can pursue. Let’s get started!

A Look at Daybreak Solar’s History

Daybreak Solar, based in Fort Worth, Texas, entered the residential solar market with promises of bringing clean energy to homeowners across several states, including Texas, Arizona, Florida, and Oklahoma.

Initially, the company presented itself as a comprehensive service provider, handling installations and offering robust warranties. They aimed to capitalize on the growing demand for residential solar, positioning themselves as a reliable partner for homeowners looking to make the switch. Co-founder Jamey Johnson and others at the company sought to build a significant presence in the solar installation industry.

However, as we’ll explore, the bright promises of Daybreak Solar seem to have faded for many of its customers.

Red Flags: A Pattern of Negative Reviews

A quick search online reveals a troubling pattern of complaints against Daybreak Solar. Many customers have shared their frustrating experiences on platforms like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other consumer review sites. I know I’ve personally seen dozens of these stories!

Homeowners report a range of serious issues, including:

• Systems that don’t work: Many customers claim their expensive solar panel systems have never worked correctly, or stopped working shortly after installation.
• Unfulfilled promises: Sales representatives allegedly made promises of significant savings on electricity bills that never materialized.
• Property damage: Some homeowners have experienced roof leaks and other property damage due to what they describe as faulty installation.
• Lack of communication: A common thread among the complaints is the complete breakdown of communication. Customers report that their calls and emails go unanswered, leaving them with non-functional systems and no support.

According to information in BBB files, it appears that this business is no longer in business. The BBB website is filled with complaints detailing financial losses and the stress of being locked into loans for solar panels that are essentially useless.

What Went Wrong with Daybreak Solar?

Several factors likely contributed to the company’s downfall. The solar industry is notoriously competitive, and many companies have struggled with rising supply chain costs and shifting government regulations. In recent years, dozens of solar installers across Texas and the country have gone bankrupt, caught in a perfect storm of economic pressures.

However, customer complaints suggest that Daybreak Solar’s problems ran deeper than just market forces. Accusations of deceptive sales tactics, shoddy installation work, and a failure to honor warranties point to significant operational and ethical issues within the company.

Essentially, it appears Daybreak Solar sold expensive systems to homeowners, often financed through third-party lenders, and then failed to provide the promised product quality and support. As complaints and service issues mounted, the company became unreachable, leaving customers in a lurch.

Is Daybreak Solar Still in Business?

No, Daybreak Solar is no longer in business. According to the Better Business Bureau, it appears the company has ceased operations. Furthermore, state records in Florida show the company’s status as “INACTIVE” after its registration was revoked for failing to file an annual report.

The company has effectively vanished, leaving a trail of frustrated customers and unanswered questions. Their phone numbers are disconnected, and their offices are reportedly empty. For homeowners, this means the company that installed their solar panels and promised to stand by their work is gone.

What About Your Solar Panel Warranty?

When a solar installation company goes out of business, any workmanship warranty they offered becomes essentially worthless. This is the warranty that covers issues related to the installation itself, like leaks or improper wiring.

Note: Sometimes the installation company’s warranties are taken over by a new installer, so it’s always good to monitor for updates regarding your warranty and installer status.

Your Secret Weapon: The FTC Holder Rule

Here’s a piece of information that could be incredibly valuable. 

If you financed your solar panel system through a loan that was arranged by Daybreak Solar, you may be protected by the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) Holder Rule.

So… what is the Holder Rule?

In simple terms, this rule states that the lender is subject to the same legal claims and defenses that the consumer could assert against the seller. This means that if Daybreak Solar breached its contract with you (for example, by providing a non-functional system), you may be able to assert that claim against the finance company that holds your loan.

This could mean:

• Potential defenses against your lender if the solar company misled you.
• The right to bring claims for harm caused by Daybreak Solar’s conduct.
• An opportunity to seek a reduction or adjustment of your loan obligations.

The Holder Rule is a powerful consumer protection tool, and it’s something every Daybreak Solar customer with a loan should explore.

To find out what your legal options are, contact Prevost Law Firm for a no-cost claim review.

Legal Steps to Take if Your System Isn’t Working

If you are a former Daybreak Solar customer with a faulty or non-operational solar panel system, you have legal options. Don’t feel like you’re out of luck just because the installer has disappeared.

Here are some steps you can take:

1. Gather all your documentation: Collect your sales contract, loan agreements, correspondence with Daybreak Solar, and any records of your system’s (lack of) performance.
2. Contact an experienced collar consumer protection attorney like Prevost Law Firm: A lawyer who has experience in solar panel lawsuits can review your case and advise you on the best course of action. At Prevost Law Firm, we focus exclusively on helping homeowners in situations just like yours.
3. Notify your finance company: Inform the lender in writing that your solar panel system is not working and that you may be asserting your rights under the FTC Holder Rule.
4. File complaints: File official complaints with the Better Business Bureau and your state’s Attorney General’s office. This creates a record of the issues and can sometimes trigger investigations.

Daybreak Solar Conclusion

The story of Daybreak Solar serves as a cautionary tale for homeowners interested in switching to solar. While the promise of clean energy and lower utility bills is appealing, it’s crucial to work with a reputable and well-established installer.

For those who were left behind by Daybreak Solar, the situation is undoubtedly frustrating. However, it’s important to remember that you have rights and potential legal remedies. From pursuing manufacturer warranties to leveraging the FTC Holder Rule, there are paths to holding the responsible parties accountable.

Above all, remember that you don’t have to face this challenge alone. Seeking legal counsel can provide clarity and a strategy for moving forward, helping you to protect your investment and find a resolution.

Frequently Ask Questions (FAQs)

How much can I recover in a lawsuit?
The amount you can recover depends on the specifics of your case, including the cost of your system, the nature of the defects, and the terms of your loan. Under the Holder Rule, you may be able to recover payments made and cancel the remaining loan balance. An attorney can help you assess the potential damages.

What’s the best way to find a lawyer for my solar panel issues?
Look for a law firm with specific experience in consumer protection and solar panel litigation. At Prevost Law Firm, we focus on helping homeowners who have been wronged by solar companies.

Is there still a market for rooftop solar?
Yes, the residential solar market is still growing. However, it’s more important than ever for consumers to do their research and choose a reputable installer with a long track record of success.

What should I consider when learning about a solar company?
Check their reviews on multiple platforms, verify their licensing and insurance, ask for references, and carefully review any contract before signing. Be wary of high-pressure sales tactics and promises that seem too good to be true.

How many years should a solar panel system last?
A well-maintained solar panel system should last for 25 to 30 years. The warranties on the panels themselves often guarantee a certain level of production for 25 years.