What It Looks Like
“14 kWh battery, fully installed, under $5,000.”
Red Flag: Often a starting price. Ask whether blackout protection, cabling and switchboard work are included, or added after the installer has seen your home.
“We can beat any quote by 15%. Just show us what the others offered.”
Red Flag: Price-matching without understanding the scope suggests corners will be cut to hit that price.
“Battery, inverter and installation, all for one low price.”
Red Flag: Check the inverter size. A small inverter can limit how fast the battery charges and how much of your home it can back up.
The Real Risk
A low advertised price isn't always a problem, but it's often a starting point rather than the final bill. Blackout protection, a bigger inverter, longer cable runs and switchboard work can all be added once the installer has seen your home. Comparing offers on what's included, not just the headline number, is how you find out which one is really cheaper.
Time Impact
Surprise costs on installation day
- Blackout protection sold as an add-on after you've signed
- A small inverter that limits charging and backup
- Extra charges for cable runs, bollards or switchboard work on the day
How to Protect Yourself
Compare like-for-like
Make sure offers include the same or equivalent products. Compare usable capacity, inverter size and warranty terms.
Get the full list of inclusions
Ask exactly what's included: blackout protection, cabling, switchboard work, commissioning and permits.
Ask what happens if extras come up
Find out who pays if the installer finds extra work on the day, and get the answer in writing.
Research the equipment brands
Look up the warranty and local support for the specific battery and inverter models in each offer.
Consider total cost of ownership
Factor in warranty length and expected performance over 10 years or more, not just the upfront price.
How We Handle This
Every system through RebateSpy comes from an accredited retail partner we've vetted, with blackout protection and the likely installation extras priced in upfront.