culture
5 years later — South Florida couple finally have solar
By Kathleen Ditton at WSVN 7 News
· July 16, 2026
· 3 min read
A South Florida couple spent more than $60,000 on solar panels for their home. Only to watch the company they hired walk away before the job was done. Previously, we helped them get an extension on their permit, and now their panels are finally producing power – it’s tonight’s Help Me Howard with Br
Key takeaway Bill Garrett: “They’re fining me now $100 a day and threatening to confiscate the panels.
Why this matters in The Miami
The Garretts' ordeal with their solar panel installation is a cautionary tale for Miami -Dade County residents who are considering investing in renewable energy. As the county continues to face the risks of sea-level rise and flooding, the demand for solar panels is likely to increase, making it essential for homeowners to be vigilant when selecting a contractor. The fact that the Garretts were able to find a reputable contractor like Limitless Solar to complete the job and navigate the complex permitting process with the city is a testament to the importance of doing thorough research and due diligence. This case also highlights the need for stronger consumer protections in the solar panel industry, particularly in a region like South Florida where the stakes are high and the potential for scams and unscrupulous contractors is great. As the community continues to grow and develop, it is crucial that local authorities prioritize measures to prevent similar situations from occurring in the future.
About this story
Original reporting by WSVN 7 News . The Miami surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit WSVN 7 News . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: culture ·
Published: July 16, 2026 ·
Source: WSVN 7 News ·
Reading time: 3 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? A South Florida couple spent more than $60,000 on solar panels for their home. Only to watch the company they hired walk away before the job was done. Previously, we helped them get an extension on their permit, and now their panels are finally producing power – it’s tonight’s Help Me Howard with Br
When was this published? This article was first published on July 16, 2026 by WSVN 7 News and curated for The Miami readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Kathleen Ditton at WSVN 7 News. To learn more about how The Miami selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more culture coverage from The Miami, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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