Customers out thousands after Titusville solar panel company's sudden closure
Local customers could be out thousands of dollars after the apparent closure of a solar panel company.
Steve Vandercook of Titusville said he signed a $21,000 agreement with Brevard Solar.
"I just have these ugly-looking rails on the roof that have no purpose," Vandercook said.
Vandercook said the rails were installed by the company, intended to hold solar panels to provide electricity for his home and car.
The Titusville Office was locked, dark and empty on Thursday. The management office in the mall where the business is located told WESH 2 News that Brevard Solar has locked up and left, leaving behind a disconnected phone and no information whether they'll reopen.
Vandercook said a former employee told him the business has folded. WESH 2's calls and emails to various company numbers and addresses have gone unanswered.
Although Vandercook didn't lose any money, he said he now has useless railings on his home.
"I have a lot of holes in my roof now.The warranty's gone.I don't know if I can get someone else to put panels up," Vandercook said.
Vandercook said he talked a friend of his into going solar, and she's out $8,000.
Mike Kearns, a military veteran told WESH 2 News by phone he may be out $10,000.
"Our dreams and my deployment money have been thrown out the door by somebody who potentially is just taking my money. Now, hopefully, they’re not gonna close; maybe there’s a glitch," Kearns said.
Better Business Bureau complaint forms show more than a dozen complaints about the business for long delays or faulty installation.Many of those complaints were resolved.
Now, many customers are wondering if they're just out of luck. Vandercook said he will be taking legal action.