Removing and reinstalling solar panels for a roof replacement is routine in the Valley, but it takes coordination. The typical process is: a solar technician safely shuts down and removes the array and racking, the roofer replaces or repairs the roof and installs new flashed mounts, and the solar crew reinstalls and recommissions the system. Costs depend mostly on the number of panels, the racking type, roof type and whether any electrical components need updating.
So many Tempe homes added solar in the last decade that more of them now need roof work under existing arrays. This guide explains how the process works, what affects the cost and the details that prevent leaks afterward.
When do solar panels need to come off for roof work?
- Full roof replacement on the sections under the array.
- Tile underlayment replacement, where tile under the panels must be lifted.
- Leak repairs under the array that cannot be reached with panels in place.
- Storm damage to roofing beneath the panels.
Small repairs near the edges of an array can sometimes be done by removing just a few panels. A roofer and solar technician can decide together how much needs to come off.
How does the removal and reinstall process work?
- Inspection and planning. The roofer defines the roof scope. The solar company checks the system, notes existing issues and orders any parts.
- Shutdown and removal. A qualified solar technician de-energizes the system, removes panels and racking, and stores them safely, often on site.
- Roof work. The roofer replaces the roof or underlayment and installs new mounts or flashing at the planned locations.
- Reinstallation. The solar crew reinstalls racking and panels, reconnects wiring and recommissions the system.
- Testing and inspection. The system is tested, and permits or utility steps are completed as required.
What affects the cost?
| Factor | Lower cost | Higher cost |
|---|---|---|
| Array size | Fewer panels | Large arrays on multiple roof planes |
| Roof type | Shingle or flat roof | Tile roofs with extra tile handling |
| Racking | Reusable racking in good condition | Outdated or damaged racking needing replacement |
| Electrical | System in good working order | Updates required to meet current code |
| Access | Single-story, easy access | Steep or multi-story roofs |
Because every system is different, ask for a written quote that separates solar removal, reinstallation and any repairs or upgrades. Rising material costs this year also affect racking and flashing. See our guide on why roofing prices are rising in 2026.
Need roof work under your solar panels?
Who should remove the panels, the roofer or the solar company?
Solar removal involves electrical work, and many solar warranties require removal and reinstallation by the original installer or an authorized company. Before scheduling, check your solar warranty and contract. If your original installer is no longer in business, look for a licensed solar contractor who handles removal and reinstall. Your roofer should coordinate the timeline so the roof is dried in quickly and the system is back online as soon as possible.
How do you prevent leaks at the new mounts?
This is the part that matters most for your roof. Solar mounts are penetrations, and every one must be flashed correctly:
- Mounts should land in framing, not just decking.
- Each mount needs proper flashing integrated with the roofing, not just sealant.
- On tile roofs, tiles around mounts should be cut or replaced cleanly, with flashing that sheds water over the underlayment.
- Old mount holes that will not be reused must be properly patched in the deck and underlayment.
Our post on solar panel roof puncture risks explains the common mistakes. Sealant alone breaks down quickly in the Arizona sun, as covered in our article on sealant failure around roof penetrations.
What does a typical project look like?
A Tempe homeowner with a 12-panel array on a 25-year-old tile roof starts seeing a ceiling stain after monsoon storms. The inspection finds brittle underlayment across the south slope, directly under the panels. The plan: the solar company removes the array and stores panels in the garage; the roofer lifts the tile, replaces the underlayment, installs new flashed mounts at the solar company’s layout and reinstalls the tile; the solar crew then reinstalls and tests the system. The homeowner coordinates one schedule through the roofer, and the system is offline for only the days the roof is open.
When is the best time to do it?
Fall through spring is ideal in the Valley. Crews can work longer hours than in summer, and your solar production loss is lower in the cooler, shorter days of winter. Avoid scheduling in the middle of monsoon season if possible, when afternoon storms can interrupt a roof that is open.
What should be in your solar reroof checklist?
- Confirm the solar warranty terms for removal and reinstallation.
- Get written scopes from both the roofer and the solar contractor, with dates.
- Photograph the array, racking and roof before removal.
- Ask where panels and racking will be stored during the project.
- Confirm who handles any permits and utility notifications.
- Agree on mount layout before the new roof goes on, so flashing is placed correctly.
- After reinstallation, check the monitoring app to confirm production returns to normal.
Frequently asked questions
Do solar panels have to be removed for a roof replacement?
Yes, panels and racking over the section being replaced must be removed and reinstalled after the new roof is installed.
Who removes solar panels for a reroof?
A licensed solar contractor, often the original installer, should remove and reinstall the system. Check your solar warranty for requirements.
How long does solar removal and reinstall take?
Removal often takes a day, and reinstallation a day or two, depending on system size. The system is offline while the roof work is completed.
Can I replace just the roof under my solar panels?
Sometimes. If only the section under the array needs work, it may be possible to replace that section, matched to the rest of the roof.
Will reinstalling solar panels cause roof leaks?
Not if mounts are placed in framing and properly flashed into the new roofing. Poor flashing is the main cause of solar-related leaks.
Should I replace my roof before adding solar?
If your roof or its underlayment is near the end of its life, yes. It avoids paying for removal and reinstallation later.
What is the best season for a roof replacement with solar?
Fall through spring is best in Arizona, with better working conditions and less solar production lost while the system is offline.
A roof replacement under solar panels goes smoothly when the roofer and solar company plan it together. If your roof needs work under an existing array, call Tempe Roofing Repair at (877) 689-3492 or contact us online. We handle roof replacements and tile underlayment work throughout the East Valley.
Once panels are reset after a roof replacement, periodic checks of the new flashing and mounts matter just as much as the installation itself — see our guide to solar panel roof penetration maintenance for what to watch for over time.