Removing solar panels safely takes know-how in both solar and roofing. Qualified solar contractors, and roofers working with one, can pull an array for roof work, an upgrade or end-of-life replacement without damaging the panels or the roof. Here's what every Arizona homeowner should know before hiring.
See how it works, step by step ↓Safe removal
Here's what a qualified crew does, from planning to reinstall, so the panels and the roof both survive the job.
1. Disconnect
2. Remove panels
3. Pull hardware
4. Store
5. Reinstall01 · Plan it
A qualified crew documents the array before touching a single panel.
Where every panel sits, so it can go back the same way.
How the panels are wired together and to the inverter.
What the roof looks like before anything comes off.
Spring and fall are best in Phoenix: cooler roofs and less monsoon activity.
02 · Shut it down
This is not a task for an unlicensed handyman.
Strings are opened at the combiner or inverter.
The system is locked out before any panel is unbolted.
DC voltage sits on those wires any time the sun is up.
One of the big reasons DIY is a bad trade.
03 · Remove and store
Rails, clamps and flashings come off in the right order to protect the roof deck.
Good hardware is kept for the reinstall.
Panels are stacked, wrapped and stored on pallets to avoid micro-cracks and connector damage.
Every penetration is inspected, cleaned, and patched or prepped for reinstall.
04 · Reinstall
Before reinstall, the roof gets a full condition check.
New underlayment, tile or shingles need to be cured and structurally ready.
The layout is usually restored exactly, so string lengths and inverter settings still match.
Usage grown from an EV, new HVAC or an addition? Pair the reinstall with a replacement or expansion.
Coordinate with the roofer so panels don't sit on the ground longer than needed.
Thinking about more power? See solar panel replacement.
Quick guide
The short version of who should remove your panels and how it's done right.
Specialized solar contractors and roofers with a licensed electrician on staff or partnered in can legally remove panels in Arizona. A general handyman is not qualified.
Hiring checklist
Thinking about DIY?
“The price was in budget and they were able to accommodate our roofer's schedule.”
Suzette L. · Google Review
“I highly recommend Solar Fix for their caring approach and top-notch service!”
Melissa D. · Google Review
“Very refined process in place here with lots of communication.”
Brian G. · Google Review
What we can help with
There are a few common reasons to remove solar panels. In every case, the job needs both solar and roofing know-how.
The most common reason. Panels have to come off before a roofer can tear off and replace the shingles or tiles underneath.
Older or under-producing panels get swapped for higher-wattage modules, or a system moves to a new home.
Panel replacementPanels at the end of their useful life, or damaged beyond repair, need to be safely removed.
A solar-first company like SolarFIX handles the shutdown, disconnection, panel handling and reinstall as one coordinated process.
Removal and reinstallMany roofers subcontract the R&R to a solar specialist. It protects the roof warranty and keeps everyone safe.
Price depends on system size, roof pitch and material, array layout and how much new hardware is needed. Financing is available on qualifying jobs.
Repair cost guideStraight answers on inverters, error codes, damaged panels, and what a repair visit covers.
Read the answers →Whether you're replacing a roof or upgrading a system, our removal and reinstall crew handles the electrical, the panels and the coordination with your roofer.
