Need a new roof? Your solar panels will need to come down first. This is a crucial step that many homeowners don't see coming. You might also need to bring down your panels for other reasons such as fixing storm damage, making home improvements, or upgrading your system.  

A new roof and solar panels work best as a package deal because they both last around 25+ years, so installing them together saves you the headache of panel removal down the road. Plus when you combine these projects, some roofing expenses may qualify for the solar tax credit to help you maximize your savings.  

In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you should know about temporarily removing and reinstalling your solar panels–a process professionals call "R&R."

Why Your Solar Panels May Need to Be Removed

There are a few reasons why your panels might need to come down temporarily:

Roof Replacement

This is by far the most common reason. When your roof needs replacing, your solar panels must come down first. Roofs and solar panels have similar lifespans, typically 20-30 years or more for quality roofing materials and 25-30 years for solar panels. When you install them together you can avoid the extra cost of removing and reinstalling panels later. That means that if you don’t align your timelines you may need a new roof while your solar panels have plenty of life left.

Damage

Severe weather or falling debris can damage your roof and your panels. If multiple panels are damaged, it may be most efficient to remove multiple panels or the entire array for repairs.

Can I Remove my Solar Panels by Myself?

Removing solar panels is definitely not a weekend project. The process requires professional training, specialized tools, and electrical expertise that most homeowners simply don't have. The risks to your safety and solar system are too high to chance it. Here's why professional removal is always the safest (and smartest) route: 

Careful Handling

While solar panels are designed to be durable, they still need to be handled carefully.  Without the right skills or tools you could cause damage that you might not be able to see, but can reduce your panel efficiency.

Warranty Protection

Most warranties require professional handling. DIY removal can void your coverage, leaving you unprotected if problems come up later.

Electrical Safety

Solar panels generate electricity whenever they're in sunlight. Without proper knowledge and tools, you risk a serious electrical shock during disconnection.

Physical Safety

Rooftop work requires specialized safety equipment. Falls from roofs are among the most common home improvement injuries.

With Citadel, solar panel removal is handled by our expert team members who understand both roofing and solar. You get a single, experienced crew managing the full process–no subcontractors, no confusion, no headaches.

What the Process Looks Like

At Citadel, every solar removal and reinstall project starts with a careful assessment. Here’s how it typically unfolds:

Before work begins, our technicians make sure your system is working properly.

The system is safely disconnected from the utility grid.

Panels and mounting equipment are removed and stored safely.

With panels and mounting equipment removed, roofing work proceeds normally.

Once the roofing repair is complete, the panels are reinstalled.

Your system is reconnected to the grid and thoroughly tested.

Permits, Hardware, and Batteries

Depending on your city or county, new permits or inspections may be required after a reinstall, but with Citadel you don’t need to worry. Even though these can vary dramatically by jurisdiction, we’re here to handle the process for you. 

In most cases, existing racking or mounting gear needs to be replaced when panels are removed. It’s a standard part of the process and something we plan for upfront. 

What about batteries? If your home has a battery system, it can stay in place. Batteries typically don't need to be removed during roof replacement; they just need to be temporarily disconnected.

What If I Don't Own My System Outright?

If you own your solar system (either paid in cash or financed), you can freely plan for removal and reinstallation. But if you don’t own your panels, how you handle solar panel R&R can look a little different:

Leased Systems or Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs)

If you lease your system or have a PPA, you'll need to work with your provider before removal. Even with your provider’s approval, homeowners are usually responsible for coordinating and covering the cost. It's always best to reach out to your provider directly to understand the terms of your agreement and any specific steps required.

Insurance and Warranty Considerations

Homeowner's Insurance

Most insurance policies cover solar panel R&R if it's necessary due to covered roof damage (like storm damage). However, if you're replacing an aging roof due to normal wear, insurance typically won't cover the removal and reinstall costs.

Equipment & Workmanship Warranties

Professional removal shouldn't affect equipment warranties, but it's always best to review your warranty documents. Using experienced professionals protects your coverage.

FAQ’s

• Can I remove solar panels myself?
  • Homeowners should not attempt to remove solar panels themselves. Professional removal protects your equipment, your warranties, and most importantly your safety. 
    
    
• Will removing panels void my solar system warranty?
  • If your work is handled by professionals, your warranty shouldn’t be affected. However, DIY removal will likely void workmanship and equipment warranties.
    
    
• When's the best time to go solar?
  • When you're getting a new roof! Aligning the lifespan of your roof with your solar system makes long-term maintenance easier.

Make Your Solar Panel R&R Stress-Free with Citadel

When you need solar panel removal and reinstallation, choosing a company with both roofing and solar expertise just makes sense. With decades of experience and thousands of installations across California, Citadel is one of the nation’s most trusted solar providers. Our team brings over 30 years of roofing experience and more than 20 years of solar knowledge to your project. With Citadel, you get one installer overseeing both your roof and solar project, keeping everything seamless, efficient, and stress-free. Even if Citadel didn’t install your original system, we can still help you with new roof repairs and solar reinstallation. 

If you're planning a roof replacement or need solar panels removed for any reason, don't leave your valuable solar investment to chance. Trust the experienced professionals at Citadel Roofing & Solar to handle everything from start to finish.