Question 1

What is solar panel removal and reinstallation (R&R)?

Accepted Answer

Removal and reinstallation (R&R) means safely detaching your solar panels and equipment, storing them while other work is completed, and then reinstalling and reconnecting everything when that work is done. It’s most often needed for roof replacement or repair, but it also applies to re-roofing commercial buildings, structural repairs, and other projects that need clear access to the surface beneath your array. Our licensed team handles the electrical disconnection, panel removal, reinstallation, and system recommissioning from start to finish.

Question 2

When do I need to remove my solar panels?

Accepted Answer

You’ll need R&R any time work has to happen on the roof surface under or around your panels. The most common reasons are roof replacement, major roof repairs, re-roofing or recoating a commercial roof, structural or decking repairs, and certain building additions or renovations. If you’re not sure whether your project requires it, we can review the scope with you or your contractor.

Question 3

Can I leave my panels in place during a roof replacement or repair?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, no. Roofers need full access to the roof surface, and working around or underneath mounted panels is unsafe and can damage both the panels and the new roof. For small, isolated repairs away from the array, panels sometimes can stay put. We’re happy to look at your situation and tell you honestly whether R&R is necessary.

Question 4

How long does a removal and reinstall project take?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your system size and the roof work happening in between. The physical removal and reinstallation of the panels is typically fast, within 1-2 working days onsite for the removal, and another 1-3 days onsite for the reinstallation. Most of the total timeline is simply the roofing project that happens between our two visits. Larger commercial systems take longer and are scoped individually.

Question 5

Does Transform Solar do R&R for systems we didn’t originally install?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We perform R&R on systems installed by other companies, including systems whose original installer is unresponsive or out of business. We’ll assess your existing equipment and mounting before we start so there are no surprises.

Question 6

Will R&R void my panel, inverter, or workmanship warranty?

Accepted Answer

It depends. Following manufacturer guidelines for handling and reinstalling equipment is what protects your product warranty coverage, and that’s how we perform every R&R. Improper removal by an unqualified provider is what typically creates warranty problems with manufacturers. For workmanship warranties held by the original installer, it’s worth checking before proceeding with a new contractor. If your system was installed by another company or owned via a third-party ownership/lease arrangement, we can review your documentation with you.

Question 7

Can you work with my roofer, or do I need to find my own?

Accepted Answer

Either works. If you already have a roofer, we coordinate directly with them so the roof work and the solar work line up. If you don’t have one yet, we can point you toward roofing contractors we’ve worked with. Commercial customers can have us coordinate with their roofing contractor or property manager as well.

Question 8

How do I schedule R&R around my roof replacement?

Accepted Answer

Start with your roofer’s timeline, then bring us in as early as you can. Generally, we remove the panels right before the roofer starts, and we reinstall once the new roof is finished and any required inspections are complete. The earlier we know your roofing dates, the easier it is to keep the gap between removal and reinstall short. Let us know once your roofing project is on the calendar and we’ll build the solar schedule around it.

Question 9

Who is responsible if the roof is damaged during removal or reinstall?

Accepted Answer

As a general rule, we are responsible for the quality of our own work, including how we handle penetrations and re-seal mounting points when we reinstall. Roofing materials and the condition of the roof itself remain the responsibility of your roofer and their warranty. This is why we coordinate closely with your roofing contractor, so responsibilities are clear before work begins.

Question 10

Does my roofer need to know anything about my solar system before starting?

Accepted Answer

Yes, and it helps to loop them in early. Your roofer should know that panels will be removed beforehand, where the array and any mounting points sit, and that the roof will need to be ready for reinstallation, including new mounting locations if needed. We’re glad to speak directly with your roofer, share your system layout, and answer any technical questions so nothing gets lost between trades.

Question 11

How long will my system be offline, and will I lose production or savings?

Accepted Answer

Your system will be offline from the time panels come off until reinstallation and reactivation are complete. During that window, you’ll draw from the grid as you did before solar, so you won’t be producing or earning net metering credits. Keeping the gap short is the best way to minimize lost savings, which is why we coordinate closely with your roofer. For businesses, we plan around your operations to reduce the impact.

Question 12

What does the R&R process look like from start to finish?

Accepted Answer

First, we assess your system and review the roofing scope and schedule. Before the roof work starts, we safely shut down and disconnect the system, then remove and secure the panels and mounting hardware. Your roofer completes the roof work. Then we reinstall the mounting, re-seal roof penetrations, remount the panels, reconnect the electrical, and test the system. We finish by confirming everything is producing and monitored properly, and we handle any inspections or utility steps required.

Question 13

Could my panels or equipment get damaged during removal?

Accepted Answer

Any time equipment is handled, there’s some risk, which is why experienced crews matter. Our technicians follow proper handling, storage, and transport procedures to protect your panels, wiring, and mounting hardware. Older panels and equipment can be more fragile, so we inspect everything before and after removal and document the condition.

Question 14

Is my system inspected and tested after it’s reinstalled?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Before removal and after reinstallation, we test the system to confirm it’s operating correctly and producing power as expected, and we verify that your monitoring is reporting properly. If your jurisdiction or utility requires an inspection or sign-off to turn the system back on, we coordinate that too.

Question 15

What if a panel or component is damaged or fails during R&R?

Accepted Answer

We inspect and document your equipment before removal, so we can tell the difference between damage that occurs during R&R and pre-existing issues. If a component turns out to be faulty or failing, we’ll walk you through your options, including warranty coverage where applicable. If our technicians damage anything during our construction process, you are protected through our workmanship warranty.

Question 16

Can I add panels, a battery, or upgrade equipment while my system is down for R&R?

Accepted Answer

Yes, and this is a smart time to do it. Your system is already shut down and accessible, so adding panels, a battery, an EV charger, or upgrading inverters can often be done more efficiently than as a separate project later. Your new roof is also fresh, so you won’t need to disturb it again for future additions. If you’re considering any upgrades, let us know before R&R is scheduled so we can plan for them.

Question 17

Can the system be re-laid out if my new roof changes the available space?

Accepted Answer

Often, yes. If a roof replacement changes the layout, such as a different pitch, new vents, or changed roof sections, we can review the array and adjust the layout where possible. Significant layout changes may require updated design plans or permitting. We’ll assess this up front so you know what to expect before the work begins.

Question 18

Should I replace older panels or inverters instead of reinstalling them?

Accepted Answer

It depends on their age, condition, and warranty status. If your equipment is performing well and is still under warranty, reinstalling it is usually the right call. If an inverter is nearing the end of its life, or panels are underperforming, R&R is a cost-efficient time to upgrade, since the labor to access the system is already happening. We’ll review your equipment and give you an honest recommendation.

Question 19

Does homeowners insurance cover R&R if it’s part of a roof claim?

Accepted Answer

Sometimes. If your roof is being replaced because of a covered event, such as storm or hurricane damage, the cost of removing and reinstalling the panels is often part of the claim, but coverage varies by carrier and policy. We recommend talking with your insurance agent or adjuster early. We can provide a detailed R&R estimate and documentation to support your claim.

Question 20

Are there financing options for R&R?

Accepted Answer

We can walk you through the payment options available for your project, and if you’re adding panels, a battery, or other upgrades at the same time, we can discuss how to package that.

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Removal & reinstallation

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