Need a New Roof? Why Proper Solar Panel Removal and Reinstallation Matters

After the recent wave of hailstorms across Northwest Arkansas and Southwest Missouri, homeowners are scrambling to replace damaged roofs — and some are realizing too late that not every solar company should be touching their system.

The Hidden Risk in Your Reroofing Project

If you have solar panels and need a new roof, you're facing a decision most homeowners don't think about until it's too late: who removes and reinstalls your solar panels? After a major hail event, the answer to that question matters more than ever.

It’s important to note that most roofing companies are not licensed solar contractors, which is why coordination between the roofer and solar installer is critical during reroofing projects.

Pop-up solar companies are advertising panel removal and reinstallation at prices that sound too good to be true — because they usually are. Inexperienced crews rushing through panel removal and reinstall jobs can leave homeowners with roof leaks, improper mounting hardware, and electrical issues that don't show up until months later.

At New Farm Solar, we've been doing this work for over 10 years. We're NABCEP-certified — the gold standard credential in the solar industry — and we've spent a decade earning the trust of homeowners across Northwest Arkansas and Southwest Missouri. We're not a storm-chasing company. We'll still be here long after your roof is done.

Why Solar Panel Removal and Reinstallation Is Specialized Work

Removing and reinstalling solar panels isn't just physical labor — it's skilled electrical and roofing work that directly affects the integrity of your new roof and the performance of your system.

Here's what can go wrong when an inexperienced crew handles your panels:

• Roof leaks from improper flashing and mounting hardware: Every roof penetration must be sealed correctly. Improper flashing or reused hardware can lead to leaks around solar mounts.

• Damaged panels that go unnoticed during removal: Hail may have already weakened panels before they're touched. Experienced crews know how to inspect for micro-cracks and hidden damage.

• Wiring and electrical errors: Improper reconnection can create electrical hazards, inverter faults, or reduced system output.

• Code violations and permitting issues: Solar reinstallations must meet current NEC requirements and local permitting standards.

What NABCEP Certification Actually Means

NABCEP — the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners — is the most respected credential in the solar industry. Earning NABCEP certification requires documented installation experience, passage of a rigorous technical exam, and ongoing continuing education.

When you hire a NABCEP-certified company like New Farm Solar, you're hiring a team that has proven competency in system design, electrical safety, and code compliance — not a temporary crew with limited training and no long-term presence in the area.

In a market flooded with storm-chasing solar companies, NABCEP certification is one of the clearest ways to separate serious, accountable professionals from the rest.

We Also Fix What Other Installers Got Wrong

Reroofing season is also when we see a lot of something else: homeowners discovering that their original solar installation was done poorly.

When panels come off for a new roof, the truth comes out. We regularly find:

• Improper flashing and sealant from the original install — some of which may have been leaking slowly for years

• Undersized or incorrect wiring

• Mounting hardware that was never rated for the roof type

• Systems that were never properly permitted or inspected

If we find issues during your removal, we'll document everything, explain it clearly, and give you a straight quote to fix it right. No upsells, no pressure — just honest assessment from a company that intends to be your solar partner for the long haul.

Serving Northwest Arkansas and Southwest Missouri

We're based in Northwest Arkansas and proudly serve homeowners across Southwest Missouri, as well.

Southwest Missouri homeowners have a particular reason to keep their solar systems in

excellent working condition: 1:1 net metering benefits that allow you to earn credits on excess energy sent back to the grid. A poorly reinstalled system that underperforms costs you money every single month. Getting the reinstall done right protects both your roof and your return on investment.

How to Choose the Right Solar Contractor for Your Reroofing Project

Whether you choose New Farm Solar or are still evaluating your options, here's what you should require from any solar contractor handling your panel removal and reinstallation:

1. NABCEP Certification 

NABCEP is the leading certification organization in the solar industry and a strong indicator that a contractor follows recognized standards for quality, safety, and technical expertise.

2. Established Local Presence 

How long have they been in business? A company that has been operating for 10+ years in your region has a track record you can verify. A company that appeared six months ago after a hail storm does not.

3. Proper Licensing and Insurance 

They should carry both general liability and workers' compensation insurance. Ask for certificates before any work begins. If they're hesitant, walk away.

4. Transparent, Itemized Quotes 

A trustworthy contractor gives you a detailed quote that breaks down labor, materials, permitting fees, and any additional work discovered during inspection. Vague quotes with surprise add-ons are a red flag.

5. References and Reviews 

Ask for references from customers who had panel removal and reinstallation specifically — not just new installs. Check Google reviews, the Better Business Bureau, and Solar Reviews. 

Ready to Get Your Panels Removed and Reinstalled the Right Way?

If you're dealing with storm damage and need your solar panels removed for reroofing, don't hand that job to whoever knocked on your door first.

New Farm Solar has the experience, the certifications, and the integrity to do this work

correctly — protecting your new roof, your solar investment, and your home. We serve Northwest Arkansas and Southwest Missouri and are ready to help you navigate the process from start to finish.

Call us today for a free assessment: 833-639-3276

New Farm Solar is a NABCEP-certified solar installation company serving Northwest Arkansas and Southwest Missouri with over 10 years of experience in residential and commercial solar design, installation, battery backup, and system maintenance.