How to Cancel a Sunrun Solar Contract

Sunrun offers solar through leases, PPAs (Power Purchase Agreements), and loans. Each contract type has different cancellation processes and exit options. Your ability to cancel depends primarily on when you signed, your contract type, and your state's consumer protection laws. This guide covers what we've found through our research -- but always verify current policies directly with Sunrun, as company policies may change.

Sunrun Contract Types and What They Mean for Cancellation

The first step in understanding your cancellation options is identifying what type of Sunrun contract you have. Check your original agreement or your Sunrun account for this information.

Option 1: Cooling-Off Period Cancellation

If you recently signed a Sunrun contract, you may still be within your state's cooling-off period. This is generally the simplest and most cost-effective way to cancel.

• The federal FTC Cooling-Off Rule provides 3 days for contracts signed in your home
• Many states provide additional time -- some up to 30 days for solar-specific contracts
• Based on our research, Sunrun contracts typically include cancellation instructions and the cooling-off period disclosure as required by law
• Send your cancellation notice in writing via certified mail (keep the receipt)
• If you're within the cooling-off period, cancellation should be at zero cost

Pre-installation cancellation guide →

Option 2: Pre-Installation Cancellation

If you've signed a contract but panels have not yet been installed, your cancellation options are generally better than after installation. Based on consumer reports, Sunrun's installation timeline can take several weeks to months, giving you time to reconsider.

• Contact Sunrun customer service as soon as possible to request cancellation
• Put your cancellation request in writing (email and certified letter recommended)
• Even if the cooling-off period has passed, pre-installation cancellation may be possible depending on your contract terms and how far along the process is
• If site surveys, permits, or equipment have already been ordered, there may be charges -- check your contract's cancellation clause

Option 3: System Buyout

For Sunrun lease and PPA customers, purchasing the system outright is a common exit strategy. Once you buy the system, you own it and eliminate ongoing monthly payments.

• Lease buyout: Sunrun leases reportedly include a buyout schedule with predetermined prices for each year of the contract. Check the "purchase option" section of your agreement
• PPA buyout: PPA buyouts are typically based on the system's fair market value at the time of purchase, determined by an independent appraisal
• Timing: Buyouts are generally available after year 5-7, though this varies by contract
• Request a buyout quote: Contact Sunrun directly to get your current buyout price
• Negotiate: The initial buyout quote may be negotiable, particularly if you have an independent appraisal showing a lower value

Option 4: Lease/PPA Transfer

If you're selling your home, you can typically transfer your Sunrun lease or PPA to the new homeowner. Based on our research, Sunrun reportedly has a transfer process that involves:

• Notifying Sunrun of your intent to sell and transfer the agreement
• The buyer completing a credit application with Sunrun
• Sunrun approving the transfer based on the buyer's creditworthiness
• Transfer paperwork and a potential transfer fee
• The process reportedly takes 2-6 weeks, which should be factored into your home sale timeline

Guide to selling a home with solar →

Option 5: Legal Cancellation

If you believe you were misled during the Sunrun sales process, you may have legal grounds for contract cancellation. Based on publicly available consumer complaints and regulatory actions, commonly reported issues with solar sales in general include:

• Misleading savings projections that didn't account for the escalator clause
• Sales representatives making verbal promises that differed from the written contract
• Failure to clearly explain the long-term cost implications of the escalator
• High-pressure sales tactics, particularly door-to-door
• Misrepresentation of the contract type (e.g., telling the homeowner they were "buying" when they were actually signing a lease)

Find a solar panel lawyer →

How to Contact Sunrun About Cancellation

Based on our research, you can typically reach Sunrun through the following channels. However, contact information may change -- verify on Sunrun's official website.

Filing Complaints About Sunrun

If you're unable to resolve your issue directly with Sunrun, you can file complaints with the following organizations:

• Better Business Bureau (BBB): File a complaint at bbb.org. Based on publicly available BBB data, Sunrun has received a significant number of consumer complaints over the years
• State Attorney General: File a consumer complaint with your state's AG office
• Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB): For financing-related complaints, file at consumerfinance.gov
• State Public Utilities Commission: In some states, the PUC handles solar complaints
• Federal Trade Commission (FTC): Report deceptive practices at ReportFraud.ftc.gov

Sunrun and the Vivint Solar Acquisition

In 2020, Sunrun acquired Vivint Solar in a deal reportedly valued at approximately $3.2 billion. If you originally signed a contract with Vivint Solar, your agreement was likely transferred to Sunrun as part of this acquisition. Key points:

• Your original contract terms should generally remain unchanged
• Customer service and account management may have transitioned to Sunrun's systems
• If you're having difficulty with a former Vivint Solar contract, contact Sunrun directly
• The transition may have created confusion about contact information and account access

Vivint Solar cancellation guide →

Frequently Asked Questions