Madison Australia Reviews
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About
Madison Australia Pty Ltd (ACN: 154 413 519) went into voluntary administration on 2nd June 2017.
Madison Australia is a full service National Solar Power Installation company servicing VIC, NSW, QLD, SA, NT, ACT & TAS areas. It specialises in Elite European manufactured systems with industry leading warranties, higher production yields and superior protection against panel degradation. Here are their reviews as submitted by visitors to SolarQuotes.
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The views expressed by reviewers are theirs alone, and do not necessarily reflect those of SolarQuotes Home Electrification Pty Ltd, which makes no representations as to the accuracy of the reviews. For our full disclaimer and further information, see our Terms of Use and our Review Guidelines.
Madison Australia Reviews (265)
Show Most Recent reviews from All time across Australia
Average Scores
4.1/5
Value for money
4.5/5
Quality of System
4.5/5
Installation
4.4/5
Customer Service
- 5 star 55
- 4 star 186
- 3 star 15
- 2 star 5
- 1 star 4
11 January 2019
What a shonky team this was...took the money, never connected the inverter to the grid...four years later I find system was never registered to Redback.
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17 December 2017
Madison, whom I selected from a trio of recommendations from the Solar Choice website, went out of business leaving me stranded as far as after-sales service is concerned. I have contacted LG Chem - the battery is an LGChem RESU10 - and their analysis was that the loss of communication between the battery and the inverter is the reason for the battery tripping. I have been in touch with Redback regularly and they are full of promises but empty on action. I have had to submit a warranty claim but, although they have been in contact with me twice, with different reps each time, I am still awaiting any effective action.
Inverter rating: 2/5
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Inverter rating: 2/5
30 November 2017
Original Review on 28-03-2017:
Paid deposit 6 weeks ago.they keep saying they will get back to me with installation date tomorrow. Haven't heard from them in 2 weeks. Pathetic.8 months later we asked Dave: "Are you happy with the performance of your system so far?"
I contacted you in January 2017 and was given a list of companies to install a solar system system.In Early February I chose a system from Madison Australia and paid deposit
System was in installed and paid for. Installers said the voltage in the street was to high and would let there boss know as he was away at that time.
In mid may an inspector came out switched on the system and said it was okay.
On the 11th of July a bill arrived from Red energy for $1,248.43 ( my last 4 bills were for $669.97, $593.35, $683.89 and $732.27.) I contacted my supplier,Red Energy who said they had not been informed about the system but would connect it. ( this happened on the 2nd of August) I tried to contact Madison But found out they had gone into receivership. The receivers managed to find the paperwork and lodged it with Red Energy.
On the 26th October I got another bill from Red for $1,353.74. I contacted Finn who sent out another solar team on the 13th November who said the voltage was still to high. I contacted United Energy to sort this out and am still waiting 2 weeks later and the system is not working
11 October 2017
Original Review on 15-03-2017:
We were given installation date and then were told that the inverters were out of stock so the inverter was installed 2 weeks later. When installation of the inverter was booked I wanted to be present so I could ask any relevant questions etc. I was told the installer would contact me prior to their arrival so I could be home, however I was not contacted so only found out the inverter was installed when I noticed it present on the wall near the electricity meter.It has been a month since the installation and I still have not received any documentation whatsoever and have emailed Madison but have not received a response. They rarely return my emails or voicemails.
7 months later we asked Michael: "Are you happy with the performance of your system so far?"
Yes08 August 2017
Original Review on 19-11-2016:
9 months later we asked Zlatko: "Are you happy with the performance of your system so far?"
Yes30 June 2017
The idea was great - install a reputable solar system, so I ordered and paid up front for a 5 kw Fronius with smart meter etc.
Installation of panels was mid December 2016.
Installation of inverter February 2017. Madison's installer apparently forgot to send meter information to electricity provider.
It is now June 30 2017 and although the inverter is working (cloudy day 3.6 kw on meter) power company informs me as of yesterday that there there has never been any power fed into the grid, despite the installation supposedly being completed. Cannot contact Madison - message banks full.
Is this the normal way Madison Australia does business? (Please take the "Australia" out of your business name - you are a disgrace to our business community.)
Tried calling them on several different numbers all to be met with "This mailbox is full -try again later..."
Back in March and April, phone messages left with answering service. Madison employees seem not to exist.
I would not advise anyone to do business with this "Madison Australia".
I will have a local installer check out the problem, and complete the setup and I will pay the cost myself, of course.
Madison Australia will not honour their side of the agreement to provide me with a working PV system.
Take the hit and move on. . . we live and learn.
My advice - buy solar panels and systems by all means, but avoid Madison Australia.
Keith
Added on July 1:
Questions about Madison Australia's poor service are all answered in ASIC website.
**** Company is in administration. ****
My panels installed December 2016, Inverter February 2017.
Still no power to the grid s at June 29, 2017 - Fronius system working but no power into the grid.
Local electrician to set it right - will cost $400 +
Thanks to Madison Australia.
Keith
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Installation of panels was mid December 2016.
Installation of inverter February 2017. Madison's installer apparently forgot to send meter information to electricity provider.
It is now June 30 2017 and although the inverter is working (cloudy day 3.6 kw on meter) power company informs me as of yesterday that there there has never been any power fed into the grid, despite the installation supposedly being completed. Cannot contact Madison - message banks full.
Is this the normal way Madison Australia does business? (Please take the "Australia" out of your business name - you are a disgrace to our business community.)
Tried calling them on several different numbers all to be met with "This mailbox is full -try again later..."
Back in March and April, phone messages left with answering service. Madison employees seem not to exist.
I would not advise anyone to do business with this "Madison Australia".
I will have a local installer check out the problem, and complete the setup and I will pay the cost myself, of course.
Madison Australia will not honour their side of the agreement to provide me with a working PV system.
Take the hit and move on. . . we live and learn.
My advice - buy solar panels and systems by all means, but avoid Madison Australia.
Keith
Added on July 1:
Questions about Madison Australia's poor service are all answered in ASIC website.
**** Company is in administration. ****
My panels installed December 2016, Inverter February 2017.
Still no power to the grid s at June 29, 2017 - Fronius system working but no power into the grid.
Local electrician to set it right - will cost $400 +
Thanks to Madison Australia.
Keith
27 June 2017
After waiting more than 6 months to have the system installed with minimal effort to followup, I received messages from the CE demanding final payment.
Meanwhile - no opportunity to use the solar. CE offered small discount based - and was hostile and blamed everyone else for the issues experienced.
No customer service, delays and lack of response and coordination from Madison, just demands for the balance of payment.
I have no idea if it is working properly, and despite requesting the Qantas Frequent Flyer points detailed in the contract - I have had no response and no points added.
This is an expensive system, and I read the reviews (all good at the time) - it appears the company has lost its shine!
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Meanwhile - no opportunity to use the solar. CE offered small discount based - and was hostile and blamed everyone else for the issues experienced.
No customer service, delays and lack of response and coordination from Madison, just demands for the balance of payment.
I have no idea if it is working properly, and despite requesting the Qantas Frequent Flyer points detailed in the contract - I have had no response and no points added.
This is an expensive system, and I read the reviews (all good at the time) - it appears the company has lost its shine!
23 May 2017
I would not recommend this company
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10 May 2017
Madison were great at communicating right up until they got my money, one string on one of my SMA 5000 inverter has not been working for 3 months and Madison said they were organising but will not return my calls. I have been leaving messages for the last 3 weeks with no reply.
VERY POOR after sales support.
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VERY POOR after sales support.
04 May 2017
I'll start with "The electricians who did the job were great", a far as I can tell. They came in (on time) did the job promptly and left the system installed, but awaiting activation. This is where my opinion of Madison has gone south. The electricians advised that someone would be along the next day to activate the system - NO ONE sighted 2 days later. So I am yet to actually see the system work. As I write this, the sales person returned my call and advised me that system would not be activated for up to another 10 days.
When I first contracted with Madison, I was told installed in March. Then I was advised that owing to some admin issue, could I wait. So I did and there were some responses from them, but I had to initiate the exchanges. Finally I was advised that they were ready to go and the 2 May was scheduled for installation, provided that some meter inspection was done prior and an approval completed with the supplier. I was also asked to re-send stuff I had forwarded weeks earlier (no problem - stuff happens). The latest glitch seems to be the approval paperwork is not done.
In the days prior to the installation I called Madison several times and was told 'no one is available', but leave contact details. They don't respond to messages (neither requests left with the receptionist nor emails). This was now getting frustrating and I had no idea if anything would happen until the electrician texted me the night before advising their arrival for 2 May. Until the text arrived I was quite concerned - silence is not encouraging.
Their sales folks were good at getting back to me, but silence from Madison as installation approached and since. Oddly the sales person is the only one to get back to me post the installation, after I called her direct.
So my assessment is that value for money is poor - every day the system is not generating is power bills I have to pay.
Quality is rated poor - It looks good but is not doing anything.
Installation - I went with good, which may be unfair to the electricians - The job looks very good, but I have no idea if it works properly. Eventually I may find out.
Customer service - the sales people (both of them) were very good and responsive. After that I can only rate the experience as awful.
The irony is that local installers came door to door to offer systems, which I rejected. In hindsight - my error of judgement.
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When I first contracted with Madison, I was told installed in March. Then I was advised that owing to some admin issue, could I wait. So I did and there were some responses from them, but I had to initiate the exchanges. Finally I was advised that they were ready to go and the 2 May was scheduled for installation, provided that some meter inspection was done prior and an approval completed with the supplier. I was also asked to re-send stuff I had forwarded weeks earlier (no problem - stuff happens). The latest glitch seems to be the approval paperwork is not done.
In the days prior to the installation I called Madison several times and was told 'no one is available', but leave contact details. They don't respond to messages (neither requests left with the receptionist nor emails). This was now getting frustrating and I had no idea if anything would happen until the electrician texted me the night before advising their arrival for 2 May. Until the text arrived I was quite concerned - silence is not encouraging.
Their sales folks were good at getting back to me, but silence from Madison as installation approached and since. Oddly the sales person is the only one to get back to me post the installation, after I called her direct.
So my assessment is that value for money is poor - every day the system is not generating is power bills I have to pay.
Quality is rated poor - It looks good but is not doing anything.
Installation - I went with good, which may be unfair to the electricians - The job looks very good, but I have no idea if it works properly. Eventually I may find out.
Customer service - the sales people (both of them) were very good and responsive. After that I can only rate the experience as awful.
The irony is that local installers came door to door to offer systems, which I rejected. In hindsight - my error of judgement.
02 May 2017
TERRIBLE CUSTOMER SERVICE AND NO TRANSPARENCY - DO NOT USE MADISON AUSTRALIA
I contacted Madison for a quote on a 6kW system in December 2016. I placed the deposit and was then told the panels I had ordered were out of stock and there would be an 8 week wait for the panels to arrive from Germany. 8 weeks later I followed up only to be told the 265w panels I had ordered are no longer supplied and they would be replaced with 300w panels. I was then told I would need less panels to achieve the same output and was given an updated quote which was $100 less than the original quoted price. 2 days before the original install date I had not received any further communication regarding the installation so I again followed up only to be told the inverter I had ordered had not arrived and installation would be delayed another week. When the installation did finally happen, there was little detail provided about having the original electricity meter on the house changed to an import/export meter. I was told by the installers Madison Australia would submit all the necessary paper work. A week later I received an approval letter from SA Power Networks (South Australian Electricity Infrastructure) and in the letter was advised to call SAPN to organise a meter change over. On calling SAPN they advised they had not yet received authority from the Electricity retailer (Energy Australia) and this can sometimes take 5-10 business days. So I waited another 10 business days and then call SAPN for a second time. Still no luck. They said they have still not received the appropriate authority from Energy Australia. I contacted Madison Australia again to ask about the delay and they advised there was a delay in submitting the paper work and this was held up by a week. So I waited another 10 business days and again followed up with SAPN who again advised they had not received their authority. I then rang Energy Australia directly to find out they only received the paper work from Madison Australia 2 days prior to my call (close to a month after the panels were installed). Long story short, I now need to wait another 5-10 days before calling SAPN for the 4th time to organise the meter change over, which due to the backlog of jobs can take another 4 weeks from the date they receive the authority. So I am now close to 5 months on from paying my original deposit and am approximately another month away from having the import/export meter installed and the panels actually generating power!
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I contacted Madison for a quote on a 6kW system in December 2016. I placed the deposit and was then told the panels I had ordered were out of stock and there would be an 8 week wait for the panels to arrive from Germany. 8 weeks later I followed up only to be told the 265w panels I had ordered are no longer supplied and they would be replaced with 300w panels. I was then told I would need less panels to achieve the same output and was given an updated quote which was $100 less than the original quoted price. 2 days before the original install date I had not received any further communication regarding the installation so I again followed up only to be told the inverter I had ordered had not arrived and installation would be delayed another week. When the installation did finally happen, there was little detail provided about having the original electricity meter on the house changed to an import/export meter. I was told by the installers Madison Australia would submit all the necessary paper work. A week later I received an approval letter from SA Power Networks (South Australian Electricity Infrastructure) and in the letter was advised to call SAPN to organise a meter change over. On calling SAPN they advised they had not yet received authority from the Electricity retailer (Energy Australia) and this can sometimes take 5-10 business days. So I waited another 10 business days and then call SAPN for a second time. Still no luck. They said they have still not received the appropriate authority from Energy Australia. I contacted Madison Australia again to ask about the delay and they advised there was a delay in submitting the paper work and this was held up by a week. So I waited another 10 business days and again followed up with SAPN who again advised they had not received their authority. I then rang Energy Australia directly to find out they only received the paper work from Madison Australia 2 days prior to my call (close to a month after the panels were installed). Long story short, I now need to wait another 5-10 days before calling SAPN for the 4th time to organise the meter change over, which due to the backlog of jobs can take another 4 weeks from the date they receive the authority. So I am now close to 5 months on from paying my original deposit and am approximately another month away from having the import/export meter installed and the panels actually generating power!
02 May 2017
Once they have your money they do not want to talk. I have waiting weeks for a return call without any luck. I have still not received the safety certificate after 5 weeks and still waiting to be connected to the grid. Do yourself a favour and look for a different installer
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21 April 2017
Original Review on 04-09-2016:
Although there were hold-ups due supply Madison Australia kept us informed all the way. Madison's proposed panel layout differed to the other 2 quotes but their system now functioning better than anticipated and reveals the wisdom of their solar solution.8 months later we asked Neil: "Are you happy with the performance of your system so far?"
We now save 75-80% on electricity bills. I don't care if the system pays for itself, the return on my investment is more than 25%, which is a whole lot more than any other investment we have!16 March 2017
28 February 2017
Original Review on 29-06-2016:
Using a common inverter (Fronius) for all quotes the deciding factor became the quality of the panels. I accept that all the tier 1 panels will do an acceptable job in summer, so the winter performance becomes more important. While we may not get a full reduction of imported electricity in winter, the better result will save more money. This also applies to the shoulder periods of spring and autumn. Therefore, Having the results available from the DKASC site for the Hanwha panels any easy, supported choice.The price was guaranteed. In fact, because we have had roof venting whirly bird installed, the number of panels had to be reduced by 1. So Madison upgraded all the panels to their 275W panels at no extra cost.
Madison provided a detailed cost benefit analysis including a graph, for the warranted life of the panels, that provided for replacing the inverter at the end of its warranty. This is a worst case scenario but does cover that eventuality even though it gives a longer break-even period. It reflects a degree of honesty that is hard to ignore.
The system will be installed near the beginning of July so I will be able to report on that later. I have used the recommendation by SolarQuotes as reasonable indication of their installation skill and standards.
I have also taken the view that continued existence of the supplier/installer is not critical. All the items being supplied are internationally sourced and recognised, so other organisations should be able to provide support if necessary in the future. Given the rate at which small or fly-by-night companies have departed this sector, taking over support is a common practice.
8 months later we asked Ennis: "Are you happy with the performance of your system so far?"
The panels and inverter have performed brilliantly without any problems. The selection of high energy panels really pays off when there isn't a lot of sun around. From Sydney with no solar and 2 people in a 2 storey house (consumption = 14 people) to Bendigo 1 storey (consumption = 1 person). Yes, that's right a 13 people drop in consumption. Helped by moving from 2 split air-conditioners to 1 evaporative cooler. Not helped by now having a swimming pool with roof heating. We do feedin more kwh in summer than we use.11 February 2017
Original Review on 12-06-2016:
I am very grateful to Finn Peacock and his team at SolarQuotes.com.au.Everything that I need to know has been answered by your website. And all the information that you have in there finally makes me comfortable in my decision to go solar.
All three suppliers you sent me for a quotation are all fantastic, they are real people, they laid all their cards in front of you, you can see and you will know that you are not being ripped off. I actually felt bad I have to choose only one of them in the end but all three are great.
In short I finally got the system installed on the 7th of June 2016, five weeks after I made the down payment. The Installation job was very efficient the guys obviously know what they are doing. Independent inspection was carried out just this week. The system is now fully operational and is now able to supply power to the grid.
Now what is left is for the supplier ( Madison Australia ) to sort some things out with my electricity provider to take it easy on the bill.
All in all I am a happy customer.
Thank you SolarQuotes.
8 months later we asked Ceasar: "Are you happy with the performance of your system so far?"
in so far yes07 February 2017
03 February 2017
29 January 2017
Once the system has been installed. I can then give a better idea on how the whole process went.
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05 January 2017
System only operating for 3 weeks - difficult to judge operation at this stage
Small difficulty with customer service @ Madison with "key" person away. I was not able to confirm installation date and details without several follow up calls
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Small difficulty with customer service @ Madison with "key" person away. I was not able to confirm installation date and details without several follow up calls
03 December 2016
Alinta energy, our retailer are dragging their feet. Happy with our solar system, not so happy with Alinta .
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03 December 2016
Essential Solar Salesman was owner of business who was very passionate and knowledgable of industry without pushing his own agenda.
Best brands at a competitive price plus offered mobile monitoring which others never mentioned.
Installer was quick and more than happy to answer further questions on day.
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Best brands at a competitive price plus offered mobile monitoring which others never mentioned.
Installer was quick and more than happy to answer further questions on day.
27 November 2016
Efficient professional installers
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18 November 2016
14 November 2016
Original Review on 05-04-2016:
7 months later we asked Raul: "Are you happy with the performance of your system so far?"
Perfect. It's been generating approximately, on a good sunny day, 85% to 90% total output on a 5Kw system. Better than expected. Maybe around summer that output will increase slightly higher17 October 2016
They knew their stuff and provided a degree of confidence others didn't.
However, for a premium supplier, they didn't have premium response to messages left or calls made. I had to chase more than I would have liked.
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However, for a premium supplier, they didn't have premium response to messages left or calls made. I had to chase more than I would have liked.
03 October 2016
I found that Madison and one of the other quoting companies offered me much the same product for the same price. Madison seemed more professional. I did not get contacted by the third company. Thanks so much for all your help in cutting through the crap!
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09 August 2016
08 August 2016
We purchased our LG solar panels from Madison Australia who did a thoroughly efficient and professional job with installation. The price was also very reasonable for the high quality of the product. The staff are extremely knowledgeable and always polite and helpful with any enquiry. I recommend them highly to anyone interested in solar panels.
I have done thorough research into solar panels and looked at many companies but Madison Australia was the best. Our system is battery ready and we have peace of mind knowing that Madison Australia has the best warranty.
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I have done thorough research into solar panels and looked at many companies but Madison Australia was the best. Our system is battery ready and we have peace of mind knowing that Madison Australia has the best warranty.
08 August 2016
Very good installation and great support particulary from the installation team led by Jessica
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08 August 2016
Very fast & friendly service from start to finish.Had for 18 months now & working a dream.
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27 July 2016
Great service from Madison. Only downside is we have one panel with blotches on glass - visible from day 1. Supplier would not authorise Madison to change. Appears to be working ok
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27 July 2016
Very friendly staff and great to deal with. The CEO answered a call from me and he was great to speak to
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27 July 2016
Informative salesperson, very helpful and obliging, installers were quick and effecient
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26 July 2016
Straightforward process.
Reliable tradesmen.
Neat, professional installation.
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Reliable tradesmen.
Neat, professional installation.
21 July 2016
Once I was close to making a decision, following exhausting comparo's, the service, communication and credibility of the quality of the proposed system got me across the line. I hesitated due to the headquarters being interstate as I wanted to buy local, however following a review of other customers in SA, I was happy to run with Madison. The arrangements and background admin were all faultless and handled with no fuss and minimal involvement on my part. The installation was completed on time and the team seemed very efficient. Overall, an excellent choice. I have recommended the company to others. ??
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21 July 2016
I have never experienced this level of service right from customer service right through to the installer, they are absolutely brilliant, a role model to the trade!
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21 July 2016
21 July 2016
In hindsight I should have went for a larger system.
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21 July 2016
21 July 2016
I originally thought that my system would be monitored for performance by the OEM and outages or problems reported to me as they occurred. The Enphase system spends more time offline than online, yet no one at Madison seems concerned. The system seems to work as promised but the support I thought that would come with it (for the additional system cost) is non existent.
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21 July 2016
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21 July 2016
The salesperson knew very little, I obtained my best information from my electrican
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21 July 2016
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21 July 2016