Step 1: What Roofers Need in the Solar Site Survey
The contractor verifies panel count, array layout, roof access, equipment type, racking, inverter configuration, visible damage, and storage options. Project dates and responsibilities are compared with the roofing scope. Unknown or obsolete hardware is identified early so replacement parts can be sourced before the roof is open.
Step 2: Safe-Off Documentation Before Tear-Off
Photos capture the array, attachments, wiring paths, labels, roof surfaces, and existing conditions. System status is recorded when practical. Shutdown follows the equipment and site procedure. Conductors and connectors are handled as electrical components, not loose roofing accessories.
Step 3: Panel Removal and Jobsite Staging
Modules are labeled, disconnected, lifted, and staged to prevent frame, glass, backsheet, and connector damage. Rails and reusable components are organized. Roof penetrations and remaining equipment are left in the condition agreed upon with the roofer. The roofer receives a clear work area and status update.
Step 4: The Roof-Ready Handoff to the Solar Crew
After roofing work, the solar contractor confirms material, attachment zones, deck condition, clearances, roof penetrations, and layout constraints. Changes to vents, ridges, setbacks, or roof geometry are resolved before equipment is moved back onto the roof. This is the point to stop and correct conflicts.
Step 5: Reset, Recommissioning, and Homeowner Closeout
Attachments and weatherproofing are installed for the finished roof. Racking, modules, electronics, conductors, grounding, and bonding are restored. The system is started according to procedure and checked for expected operation. Photos, equipment changes, test observations, and workmanship terms become the closeout package.
Emerging jobsite option
Can Roofers Keep Removed Solar Panels on the Roof?
Some reroof and solar crews are beginning to use a frontier product called ROOFRAK for on-roof module staging. The manufacturer says the adjustable steel rack can be positioned without tools or drilling, then loaded and locked so modules remain on the roof while crews complete tear-off and dry-in. The intended benefit is fewer ladder carries, less ground staging, and a shorter material-handling path.
This is not a universal substitute for detach and reset. The modules still require qualified shutdown, disconnection, handling, and reinstallation. Before using any on-roof staging system, confirm manufacturer instructions, roof capacity and condition, rack placement, load limits, fall protection, wind and weather exposure, access paths, local requirements, insurance, and who accepts responsibility. Roof configuration and the reroof sequence may make ground or off-site storage the better choice.
Read the complete ROOFRAK roofer guide →Questions homeowners ask
Frequently asked questions
Are removal and reset done on the same day?+
Usually not. Roofing work occurs between the visits, and the reset follows roof readiness and any required inspection.
Can the layout change during reset?+
Yes, but changes may require design, electrical, structural, permit, or utility review.
What if a panel is already damaged?+
Pre-work documentation should identify visible damage and define how testing, replacement, and owner approval will be handled.