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Who takes my solar panels off for a reroof in the Bay Area, and what does it cost?

Short answerIt's usually its own charge, often in the thousands of dollars, and it scales with the number of panels, the racking and the roof. In the Bay Area, the roofer either coordinates a solar subcontractor or asks you to hire one. Get both scopes in writing before work starts.

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

Updated · Sources reviewed November 12, 2026 · By Bay Area Roof Replacements

  • 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?

  • Number of modules
  • Mounting: standard rails, tile mounts, flat-roof racks
  • Condition of hardware found during removal
  • Height and access
  • Reinstall permit or inspection where required

What if the system is leased?

Own the system? Ask the installer whether their warranty requires them to handle removal. Lease it or pay under a PPA? The provider's contract usually controls removal, approved contractors and notice, so call them first.

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 the Bay Area?

The local twists vary: San Francisco arrays on flat roofs behind parapets, tile and Eichler roofs in the South Bay, cool-roof requirements under arrays in climate zones 4 and 12, and steep tree-covered roofs in Marin. Regional guides:

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.

Get a free replacement quote

Frequently asked questions

Does removing solar void my warranty?

It can affect the installer's workmanship warranty if someone else removes it. Ask the installer first.

Do I need a permit to reinstall solar?

Some cities require one for reconnection. Ask the solar contractor to confirm with your building department.

Do Bay Area roofers handle solar removal themselves?

Some coordinate it through a solar subcontractor; others ask you to hire one. The electrical work belongs to a solar or electrical contractor.

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.