Can You Replace a Roof With Solar Panels Installed?

Yes. If your roof needs replacing and you already have solar panels, the panels need to come off, the roof gets done, and then the panels go back on. It is a well-established process, but there are costs and considerations to plan for.

Key Takeaway

Your solar panels need to be professionally removed before roofing work and reinstalled after. Always use an MCS-certified installer for both removal and reinstallation to protect your warranty.

The Process: Step by Step

  1. Panel removal (scaffolding + electrician): A qualified solar installer disconnects the system, removes the panels, and stores them safely. This includes disconnecting from the inverter and isolating the DC side
  2. Racking/mounting removal: The rail system and roof hooks are taken off. Your roofer will need a clear roof to work on
  3. Roof replacement: Your roofer carries out the full re-roof — new battens, felt/membrane, tiles or slates
  4. Mounting reinstallation: Once the new roof is weathertight, the solar mounting system goes back on. This may need new fixings if the tile type or batten spacing has changed
  5. Panel reinstallation + recommissioning: Panels are refitted, wiring reconnected, and the system tested before being switched back on

What Does It Cost?

£500-1,000
Panel removal cost
£800-1,500
Reinstallation cost
£1,300-2,500
Total solar-related cost
2-4 weeks
System offline time

The roof replacement itself is a separate cost. The additional costs for handling the solar panels typically break down as:

  • Panel removal: £500-1,000 depending on system size and access
  • Storage during works: Usually included or minimal
  • Reinstallation: £800-1,500 including new fixings and recommissioning
  • Total solar-related cost: £1,300-2,500 on top of the roof replacement

If the mounting system is old or incompatible with the new roof tiles, you may need a new racking system (£300-600 extra).

Need help coordinating your roof replacement and solar reinstallation?

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Should You Upgrade Panels at the Same Time?

Since the panels are coming off anyway, it is worth considering whether to upgrade. This makes sense if:

  • Your panels are 15+ years old and noticeably underperforming
  • You want to increase system size (modern panels are more efficient, so you may fit more capacity in the same space)
  • Your inverter also needs replacing
  • You want to add battery storage and a hybrid inverter

If your panels are under 10 years old and performing well, reinstalling them is the better financial decision.

Worth Knowing

Modern panels are significantly more efficient than those from 10+ years ago. If your panels are over 15 years old, a roof replacement is one of the best opportunities to upgrade your entire system.

Timing and Planning

Coordinate the solar installer and roofer early. The solar team needs to remove panels before the roofer starts and reinstall after the roof is finished. Build in buffer time — roof replacements can overrun due to weather.

During the works, your solar system will be offline. For a standard re-roof, expect 2-4 weeks without generation. Plan for this in your energy budget.

Thinking about upgrading your panels at the same time? Get a free quote.

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Planning Tip

Schedule your roof replacement during spring or autumn when solar generation is moderate. You will lose less energy compared to having the system offline during peak summer months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will removing and reinstalling panels void the warranty?

Not if done by an MCS-certified installer. Panel manufacturer warranties cover the product, not the installation method. However, if an unqualified person removes or reinstalls the panels and causes damage, that damage would not be covered.

Can I claim on insurance for the panel removal costs?

If the roof replacement is due to storm damage or another insured event, the cost of removing and reinstalling panels may be covered. Check with your insurer — many policies now account for solar panels.

How long will my solar system be offline?

Typically 2-4 weeks for a standard roof replacement. The panels are removed at the start and reinstalled once the new roof is complete and weathertight.