What is Vivint Solar?
Vivint is a home technology company that offers a wide array of tech-forward devices. Its solar energy division, Vivint Solar, was purchased by Sunrun in 2020 and now operates as a wholly owned Sunrun subsidiary. Sunrun offers lease and ownership plans and provides 25 years of free maintenance and repairs to customers in most states who lease their systems or sign up for its Protection Plus plan.
Vivint Solar customer reviews
Vivint Solar’s reviews are poor. Of the 2,496 verified customer reviews on ConsumerAffairs, only 17% are satisfied. However, it should be noted that Vivint Solar now operates as part of Sunrun, which has a very different customer rating profile. Of the 3,835 reviews Sunrun customers have posted on ConsumerAffairs, 82% are satisfied.
Some Vivint Solar customers have issues with the installation process, including damage to their roofs and poor communication from the company. Others have experienced problems with the performance of the solar panels, such as panels not working or not generating enough power. There have also been complaints about misleading sales tactics, including promises of savings and incentives that were not fulfilled.
Here’s what some recent Vivint Solar customers are saying:
- “Worst solar company ever! I've purchased multiple solar systems and they are the absolute worst. I had to use them with the purchase of a new home. They were way more expensive than others. The products they used were fine but their service is horrible. I received an email that my system was underperforming. They found my system wasn't communicating. I called their service department and they told me I didn't have a warranty. I had to go through three tiers of customer service and send them my contract for them to agree that I have a warranty. They said I had to sign an agreement to pay in the case that it was caused by physical damage but that otherwise it would be covered by warranty. They got it communicating. Sent me a bill for $580 and refuse to acknowledge my warranty. I'm disputing it with BBB. They have multiple class action lawsuits against them. Stay away from them if you want someone that stands by their work.” — Chris, Roseville, CA
- “I contracted my solar system through a Vivint solar agent. He lied about covering my early termination fees and also lied about no delivery fees from the utility company on electricity I produced. Although the system is doing what is should, I would recommend going with the best price and just get any fees they promise to cover deducted from total cost upfront.” — Steve, Houston, TX
Is Vivint Solar a scam?
No — although its customers have often registered complaints, Vivint Solar is not a scam. Saving money through solar energy could take years. It comes down to where you live and how much energy you consume. With that in mind, Vivint Solar may not be the right choice for you, but its products and services are not inherently a scam.
Additionally, Vivint Solar (operating as part of Sunrun) offers lease customers and those who pay for the company’s Protection Plus Plan a 25-year warranty that covers the solar equipment they install, plus around-the-clock monitoring and a performance guarantee. Those who buy their panels outright but don’t opt for the Protection Plus Plan are covered by manufacturers’ warranties, a 10-year workmanship guarantee and a 10-year roof penetration warranty.
Payment options for Vivint Solar include cash, loan, lease or power purchase agreement (PPA).
Where is Vivint Solar available?
Vivint Solar is available in the following states:
- California
- Connecticut
- Florida
- Hawaii
- Illinois
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New York
- Rhode Island
- Texas
- Washington, D.C.
Vivint Solar information
| Year founded | 2011 |
|---|---|
| Availability | 14 states |
| Warranty | 10 to 25 years |
| Website | https:/sunrun.com |
| Headquarters | Beltsville, MD |
| Support email | - |
| Support phone number | 833-324-5886 |
| Payment options | Cash, loan, lease and PPA |
FAQ
How long has Vivint Solar been in business?
Vivint Solar has been in business since 2011.
Is Vivint Solar public or private?
Vivint Solar is a private company.
What is the lawsuit against Vivint Solar?
Vivint Solar was the subject of a 2026 lawsuit in California alleging that the company misrepresented its services to customers who entered into power purchase agreements from August 2016 through October 2020 — prior to its purchase by Sunrun. The company was required to pay a $4.3 million settlement, and affected customers may be eligible to receive compensation through a restitution fund.
