Central Florida Homeowners Struggle with Solar Lien Complications

After a series of solar installer bankruptcies in Central Florida, many homeowners are facing complications when trying to sell or refinance their homes. Juan Burgos Law, a local law firm specializing in bankruptcy cases, is helping homeowners navigate these challenges by resolving liens on their properties.

According to Juan C. Burgos, founder of Juan Burgos Law, a UCC-1 fixture filing, commonly known as a lien, can be recorded against a property even after the original installer has gone out of business. This lien can significantly impact a homeowner's ability to sell or refinance their home.

Under 11 U.S.C. § 722, Chapter 7 debtors can redeem financed personal property, including solar panels, by paying its current fair market value rather than the full loan balance. Chapter 13 debtors can pursue a similar result by bifurcating the lender's claim under 11 U.S.C. § 506(a). Homeowners whose solar systems are structured as a lease or Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) face a different set of options under the Bankruptcy Code's rules for executory contracts. Homeowners facing a Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) tax assessment from a program such as Ygrene may have separate rights and obligations tied to how that assessment is structured.

Burgos emphasizes the importance of understanding the specific structure of the loan and the current legal landscape.

The firm offers free consultations and free online tools, including the Florida Means Test Calculator, to help homeowners understand their options. The firm serves clients in English, Spanish, and Portuguese. Offices are located at 1339 Arlington St, Orlando, FL 32805, and can be reached by phone at (407) 505-4190. For more information, visit juanburgoslaw.com/solar-panel-lien-removal, with Spanish- and Portuguese-language versions available at juanburgoslaw.com/es/embargo-paneles-solares-bancarrota and juanburgoslaw.com/pt-br/penhora-paineis-solares-falencia.

The release also notes that Juan Burgos Law represents individuals in Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy cases, including solar panel lien matters, before the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida. The firm helps clients with routine bankruptcy proceedings, including the valuation and redemption of solar panel loans. The firm's services are available to Central Florida residents, particularly those in the Orlando and Polk County areas.

Juan Burgos Law's services are designed to provide clear and accessible legal guidance to homeowners facing these complex financial issues. The firm's approach is tailored to the specific needs of each client, ensuring that they understand their rights and options. For those seeking assistance, the firm offers free consultations and a range of online tools to help navigate the process.