What to Expect During the Solar Removal, Reroof, and Reinstallation (R&R) Process

A removed solar system awaiting a new roof.

If your roof is aging but your home already has solar panels installed, you may be wondering how to protect both. Replacing a roof beneath a working solar system requires careful coordination — and the right partner.

At SLM Solar, we specialize in R&R (Removal, Reroof, and Reinstallation) projects across New Jersey. Here’s what you can expect throughout the process, and what to look out for when hiring a solar company to handle this kind of work.

Choose a Qualified Solar Partner

Before starting your project, make sure the company you hire is:

• Licensed, bonded, and insured

• Experienced specifically in solar removals and reinstallation

• Certified to work on the brand of system you have — especially if it’s leased

This last point is critical. If your solar system is leased (from companies like Sunrun, Sunnova, or IGS), the lease agreement will often require that any work on the system be performed by a certified provider. Using an uncertified contractor could void your warranty or result in added fees from the leaseholder. Review your lease terms carefully and ask your provider if SLM Solar is approved to perform the work. We have partnered with most major leaseholders in New Jersey to better serve our customers.

Step 1: Solar System Removal

We’ll begin by scheduling the removal of your solar system 1–2 days before your roofers begin work. Our technicians:

• Remove panels, optimizers/microinverters, and the existing racking system

• Label and store all materials safely on-site

• Ensure no wiring or components are left exposed to weather or risk

• Ensure all roof penetrations are sealed, protecting your home against weather until the roof is complete.

Your panels will remain protected while the roofing team completes their portion of the job.

Step 2: Reroofing

The roofers — whether you’ve chosen your own or are working with one of SLM Solar’s preferred partners — will then replace your roof.

If you're using our referral network, we coordinate directly with them to ensure no gaps in scheduling and to make sure your new roof is fully solar-ready.

Step 3: Reinstallation with New Racking

Once your new roof is in place, our team returns promptly to reinstall your solar system. We take this opportunity to:

• Use the latest in racking technology, designed for better waterproofing and protection

• Upgrade components if needed (wiring, clamps, etc.)

• Properly dispose of the old racking system unless you'd like to keep it

We take extra care during this phase to ensure that your roof warranty and solar performance are both protected.

Step 4: System Recommissioning

After the panels are reinstalled, we test every connection and recommission your system. This includes:

• Verifying inverter and monitoring functionality

• Checking system production

• Confirming safe operation

Before we leave your site, your system will be back online and producing power just as it was before — or better.

Our techs will conduct tests on every aspect of your solar system.

Peace of Mind After the Work Is Done

All R&R projects completed by SLM Solar come with a one-year workmanship warranty. If any part of our installation fails due to our work, we’ll come back and fix it at no charge.

We’ve handled R&R projects for homeowners across New Jersey, from Ocean County to Monmouth and beyond, and we take pride in keeping your solar investment safe during one of the most critical home upgrades you can make.

Ready to Get Started?

If your roof is showing signs of wear or your roofer has recommended a replacement, don’t delay. Get ahead of the issue and protect your solar investment the right way.

Call or text SLM Solar at 765-276-6952

Or visit www.slmsolarnj.com to request an R&R evaluation

We’ll take care of the full process — start to finish — with no guesswork, no stress, and no missed steps.

Contact Us For A Free Estimate