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Getting a new roof with solar panels in San Francisco: what does removal and reinstall add?

Short answerRemoving and reinstalling solar for a reroof in San Francisco is a separate line item that can add thousands of dollars, mostly driven by panel count, racking type and roof access. A solar or electrical contractor handles the disconnect and reconnect. Get the solar work and the roof priced together in a free written estimate.

Every roofer we work with is licensed, insured and highly reviewed by Bay Area homeowners.

Updated · Sources reviewed November 12, 2026 · By SF Roof Replacement

  • Active C-39 roofing license, checked on CSLB
  • Contractor's bond and workers' comp on file
  • Tear-off, permit and warranty paperwork handled
  • Free written estimate, no obligation

Who handles the solar panels during a reroof?

Two trades are involved. A licensed C-46 solar contractor or C-10 electrician disconnects and reinstalls the system; the C-39 roofer replaces the roof and flashes the attachment points. Clarify which contractor is responsible for what before signing.

What drives the solar removal and reinstall price?

  • How many panels and how they're attached
  • Whether racking, flashings or wiring need replacing
  • Steep pitch, height or a tight lot
  • On-site storage and protection of panels
  • Any permit and inspection for reconnection

What if the system is leased?

If the system is leased or under a power purchase agreement, read the contract before anyone touches it. Many agreements set rules for removal, require using the provider or an approved contractor, or require notice. Ask your original installer how removal affects their workmanship warranty.

Should I replace the roof while the panels are off?

Line up the roof's remaining life with the array's. When the roof is old, this is the time to replace it, not after the panels are back up. Have the roofer photograph the area under the array once it's exposed.

What's different in San Francisco?

In San Francisco, solar usually sits on a flat or low-slope roof behind a parapet, often on tilted racks. That changes the job: racks may be ballasted or bolted through the membrane, and every attachment point has to be flashed into the new roofing system. Getting panels and racks down from a three-story row house takes planning, and the panels need somewhere safe to wait, which on a tight city lot may be the roof itself, staged section by section. Ask both contractors how they'll sequence it.

How do I get a price?

Ask for one written estimate that covers removal, storage, reroofing, new flashed mounts and reinstall, or two coordinated estimates with clear responsibilities. For your actual price, request a free written estimate: a licensed roofer measures the roof and prices your exact scope.

Related: what drives roof replacement cost, roof size estimator, metal roofs and solar, quote checker.

Every roofer we work with is licensed, insured and highly reviewed by Bay Area homeowners.

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Frequently asked questions

How long are the panels off the roof?

Usually for the length of the reroof plus scheduling for reinstall and any inspection. Agree on dates with both contractors.

Should I get new panels instead of reinstalling old ones?

Sometimes, if the system is old or underperforming. Ask the solar contractor to compare reinstall and replacement.

Can panels stay on the roof while a San Francisco flat roof is replaced?

Sometimes crews shift arrays section by section instead of taking everything down. Ask the solar contractor and roofer how they'll protect the panels and the membrane.

Related questions

Sources

Sources reviewed November 12, 2026. Figures are published estimates and official fees, not quotes. Confirm prices, permits and requirements with your contractor and building department. This page is general information, not legal or insurance advice.