If your roof needs replacing and there are already solar panels on it, the panels have to come off first and go back on after. It is a common job, but it takes coordination between two trades. Here is how it usually works.
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Step 1: Get the roof inspected
Confirm the roof actually needs replacing, and whether the damage is storm-related. If hail or wind caused it, the replacement may be covered by insurance, and the cost of removing and resetting the panels is often part of the claim. Photograph the roof and the panels before anything is touched.
Step 2: Contact your solar company
Removing and reinstalling panels should be done by a licensed solar installer, ideally the company that installed them. Doing it yourself, or having an unqualified crew do it, can damage the panels and wiring and void the system's warranty. Ask:
Step 3: Schedule it together
The order goes:
Your roofer and solar company should agree on dates, so the roof is not left open and the panels are not stored for weeks.
Step 4: The new roof
With the panels off, the roofer can replace decking, install leak barrier, and put new flashing where the mounts will go back. This is also the time to choose impact-resistant shingles, since the roof under the panels is hard to reach later.
Step 5: Reinstallation
Each mount should go back with proper flashing woven into the new shingles, not just sealant. Ask for photos of the mounts before the panels cover them.
Step 6: Check the system
After reconnection, confirm through your monitoring app that production is back to normal. Keep the paperwork from both companies with your house records.
Planning ahead
If you are thinking about adding solar to a roof that is more than ten years old, replace the roof first. It avoids paying for removal and reinstallation later.
We coordinate roof replacements with solar companies regularly. Call (855) 741-ROOF.