Can You Replace Your Roof After Installing Solar Panels?

Most people who ask this either installed solar on an older roof, or have a roof that was damaged by a storm. Both are normal, and both are fixable. Here's how the job works, what it costs and how to protect your warranties.

Can you replace a roof under solar panels?

Yes. Nobody shingles around a live array. The system is shut down and removed, the roof is replaced as usual, and the array is reinstalled. It's often called a detach and reset.

How does a detach and reset work?

1. Shut down and disconnect. A licensed solar or electrical crew de-energizes the system and disconnects the panels.
2. Remove panels and racking. Modules are labelled and stored safely, often on site. Racking and mounts come off the roof.
3. Re-roof. The roofer replaces the shingles and underlayment, and repairs any decking.
4. Remount with new flashing. The solar crew installs new mounts flashed into the new shingles. Reusing old flashing is a common cause of leaks.
5. Reconnect and test. The system is rewired, tested and, where required, inspected again before it goes back online.

From the first crew to the last, a typical home takes about one to two weeks, depending on roofer scheduling and weather. The panels themselves are usually off the roof for only a few days.

How much does it cost to remove and reinstall solar panels?

It depends on the number of panels, roof pitch and access. US cost guides put removal and reinstallation at roughly US$200 to $300 per panel. For a typical 16- to 25-panel home system, that adds up to several thousand dollars on top of the roof itself. Ask for a fixed written quote that includes new flashing, any replacement parts and the electrical inspection.

Will I lose my solar or roof warranty?

• Solar workmanship warranty: usually only stays valid if the original installer, or an installer they approve, does the removal and reinstall. Call them first.
• Panel and inverter product warranties: are generally unaffected if the work is done properly. Damage during handling is not covered, so the crew's insurance matters.
• New roof warranty: roofers often exclude leaks at penetrations they didn't make. Ask how they'll handle the solar mounts, or have both crews agree on who warrants the flashing.

Can I repair part of the roof without removing every panel?

Often, yes. If the damage is on a roof face without panels, the array may not need to move at all. If only a few panels sit over the damaged area, a crew can sometimes remove just that section. Your installer and roofer should look at it together before quoting.

Is this a good time to upgrade the system?

It can be. With the array already off the roof, it's the cheapest moment to:

• add panels if your usage has grown, for example after buying an EV;
• replace an ageing string inverter, which commonly needs replacing within the panels' lifetime;
• add critter guards around the array edge;
• plan for a battery, so wiring and inverter choices support it.

Make sure the change doesn't conflict with your utility agreement or rebate terms. Adding capacity can require a new interconnection application.

How do I avoid this next time?

If you haven't installed solar yet, check the roof first. Our rule of thumb is to re-roof before installing if the roof has fewer than about 10 years left. See Roof first: when to replace before you install solar.

Verified October 15, 2026. Costs vary by roof, access and region; get written quotes from both your roofer and your solar installer. General information, not financial advice.