SB 784: New California Bill to Protect Solar Panel Consumers from Predatory Practices
Understanding Senate Bill 784 and Its Potential Impact on California Homeowners
On February 21, 2025, California State Senators Maria Elena Durazo and Ben Allen introduced Senate Bill 784 (SB 784), a significant piece of consumer protection legislation targeting deceptive practices in the solar panel and home improvement industries. If passed, SB 784 would take effect on January 1, 2026, enhancing transparency and accountability in consumer lending, home solicitation sales, and solar panel installation contracts throughout California.
This legislative effort comes in response to mounting complaints and lawsuits over predatory solar panel lending schemes that have misled thousands of homeowners across the state.
Why SB 784 Is Being Introduced in California
The California State Senate has introduced SB 784 based on their perception that consumers—especially senior citizens—are at higher risk of entering into fraudulent or harmful financial arrangements when they are under pressure. Additionally, the process often involves bundling both the home improvement contract and loan agreement in one presentation, leaving the consumer confused.
For further context, explore our prior blogs on this topic:
Key Consumer Protections in SB 784
If enacted, SB 784 will significantly strengthen consumer rights and protections across California. Key provisions include:
Mandatory Pre-Loan Consumer Calls
Lenders will be required to conduct a live phone call with the consumer prior to executing the loan, clearly explaining the loan’s key terms, including repayment schedules, interest rates, and penalties.
Expanded Legal Defenses Against Lenders
Consumers will be permitted to assert claims or defenses against loan holders that they could have asserted against the contractor or salesperson—especially in cases involving misrepresentations about the contract or solar system performance.
Extended Right to Cancel
SB 784 would extend the cancellation window for home solicitation contracts:
- From 3 to 5 days for the general public
- From 5 to 7 days for senior citizens aged 65 and over
These reforms aim to ensure that Californians have ample time to review complex agreements and avoid being trapped in unfair contracts.
How the Law Offices of Ali Taheripour Supports Victims of Solar Scams
At The Law Offices of Ali Taheripour, our team is familiar with the practices employed by certain solar panel companies and financing firms across California. We have represented numerous clients who were unknowingly locked into long-term debt by aggressive in-home sales teams and misleading contract terms.
Our firm is committed to protecting consumers and holding dishonest contractors and lenders accountable. We support SB 784’s efforts to create stronger legal pathways for victims and promote greater transparency in solar and home improvement financing.
Have You Been Misled by a Solar Panel Company in California?
If you or a loved one entered into a questionable solar panel agreement or financing deal, you may have legal options. Contact The Law Offices of Ali Taheripour today for a consultation to explore your rights and possible remedies.