Remove Solar Panels for Roof Replacement | Solar Detach & Reset

Remove Solar Panels for Roof Replacement: What Homeowners Need to Know

If you’re planning to replace your roof and have solar panels installed, you’ll need to schedule a solar panel removal before the roofing project begins. In this guide, we’ll explain why it’s essential to remove solar panels for roof replacement, how the process works, and what you can do to protect your solar investment.

At Solar Detach & Reset, this is one of the most common questions we get from both homeowners and roofing contractors. So let’s break it down step-by-step.

🛠️ Why Solar Panels Need to Be Removed

Solar panels are usually mounted directly to your roof’s surface. In order to complete a full roof replacement—whether you’re using shingles, tile, or metal—your roofing contractor will need to remove the panels to complete the job properly. Simply put, there’s no safe way to tear off and replace a roof with the system still in place.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, rooftop solar mounting systems attach directly to the structure, which means any major roofing project requires full panel removal.

Trying to work around your panels leads to a long list of issues:

• Incomplete or uneven roofing

• Missed flashing or underlayment

• Voided warranties

• Water intrusion or long-term structural damage

That’s why it’s always best to remove them properly before the roof work begins.

⚡ Let Solar Pros Handle the Panels

While your roofer is highly skilled at replacing your roof, solar removal and reinstallation is a separate specialty—and it’s where we come in. Our team works directly with roofers every day to ensure your system is safely detached, stored, and reinstalled without slowing anyone down.

Additionally, if your solar system is leased or financed, the stakes get even higher.

Tesla, for example, outlines strict requirements for detach and reset. In most cases, you must use an approved third-party provider—like us.

Choosing the wrong contractor, or attempting a DIY approach, could void your warranty and cause major issues.

🔄 What If I Have a Leased Solar System?

If your system is leased or financed through providers like Sunrun, Sunnova, or Tesla, there are extra steps you’ll need to take—but don’t worry, we handle them for you.

• You can’t remove the system yourself

• Your solar company likely requires a certified third-party

• You’ll need documentation before and after the work

We’re an authorized third-party provider for Sunrun, Tesla, and other leading solar companies. We’ll manage all communication with your provider, handle the required documentation, and ensure everything stays compliant with your agreement.

🛠️ Our Detach & Reset Process for Removing Solar Panels During Roof Replacement

Our process keeps your roof protected, your solar system secure, and your timeline on track. Every step aligns with your roofer’s schedule to avoid delays or miscommunication.

✅ Step 1: Coordinate

First, we connect with your roofer and align schedules. Our goal is to prevent downtime and make sure your project runs smoothly.

🔎 Step 2: Analyze

Next, we perform a full system inspection, including inverter checks and performance testing. This gives us a benchmark to ensure your system performs just as well after reinstallation.

🔧 Step 3: Detach

Then, our licensed crew carefully disconnects and removes your rooftop solar equipment—panels, racking, conduits, and mounts. We safely label and log everything to ensure a smooth reinstallation process.

📦 Step 4: Store

After detaching the system, we store all reusable equipment onsite in a safe, out-of-the-way area such as a garage, patio, or flat section of the roof.

🔁 Step 5: Reset

After the new roof is complete and weather conditions are ideal, we return to reinstall the system according to the original layout—unless you request changes.

✨ Step 6: Optimize

After reinstalling, we clean your panels and complete a second performance check to confirm everything is working properly.

🛡️ Step 7: Guarantee

Finally, we back our work with a 100% No Leak Guarantee and a workmanship warranty that covers every connection and seal. If your system is leased, we also provide all the documentation your provider needs to keep warranties valid.

⏱️ How Long Does It Take?

In most cases:

• 1 day for removal

• 1–2 days for reinstallation

We plan around your roofer to keep the project on track. If rain or weather delays arise, we pause the work and resume only when conditions are safe for sealing and reinstallation.

📦 Where Do the Panels Go?

Ultimately, that’s up to you. If there’s a flat section of roof, garage, or patio available, we’ll recommend using it. We always work with you to find a safe, secure location away from foot traffic and potential fall zones.

🛡️ Our Guarantee

We don’t just take panels down and put them back—we protect your entire system.

• ✅ 100% Money-Back No-Leak Guarantee

• ✅ New Workmanship Warranty 

• ✅ Manufacturer warranty remains intact—for both leased and owned systems

✅ Summary: What You Need to Know

• You must remove solar panels for roof replacement

• Never let an unlicensed contractor or general roofer handle solar equipment

• Use a certified solar provider to protect your system and your warranties

📞 Let’s Make This Easy

In fact, we partner with over 150 roofers across Arizona to ensure your roof project stays on track and your solar system is protected.

Need help planning your project?
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