By Introduction
Removing and reinstalling solar panels also called a “detach and reset” isn’t as simple as it sounds. The price can vary based on several technical and structural factors. Whether you’re upgrading from shingles to metal, dealing with company-specific approval like Tesla or Sunrun, or discovering squirrel-damaged cables, each detail matters.
This article breaks down how a solar detach and reset quote is built, so you’ll know what to expect and how to budget properly.
1. Base Services in a Typical Quote
A standard quote includes:
• Solar Panel Removal
• Safe Storage On-Site
• Reinstallation After Roofing
• Reconnection of Electrical Components
• Basic Sealant for Roof Penetrations
But beyond that, the real cost depends on many variables…
2. Key Factors That Affect the Final Price
a. Roof Type Changes
Switching to a different roofing material requires adapting or replacing mounting hardware:
• Shingle ➜ Metal: Needs special clamps or flashing.
• Shingle ➜ Tile: Often needs raised tile hooks or custom tile grinding.
• Tile ➜ Different Tile: Even a model change (like flat to Spanish) requires different brackets or spacers.
b. Panel Orientation
If your panels are installed in landscape (horizontal) rather than portrait, the mounting brackets and rails may be custom-cut. Reinstalling may require:
• Re-adjusting racking
• Additional rails or extenders
• More labor time to align panels properly
c. Mounting System Type
• Rail-less systems (used by companies like Tesla) are more difficult to remove and may require new parts if any clips break.
• Rail-based systems are more modular, but can be affected by roofline changes or upgrades.
If a new rail system is recommended for better performance or easier future maintenance, that will also appear as an extra cost on the quote.
3. Building Height and Accessibility
• Two-story or steep roofs require more safety measures, special equipment, or additional installers.
• Homes with limited access, like narrow walkways or small driveways, can increase labor time.
4. Number of Panels and Inverter Type
• More panels = more time and labor.
• Microinverter systems require individual connections, which takes longer than string inverter setups.
• Panel health must be tested: if some are underperforming, the installer will need to determine whether it’s a panel issue, a microinverter, or a chewed wire—a common issue caused by squirrels.
5. Company-Specific Approvals (Sunrun, Tesla, etc.)
Some companies, like Sunrun or Tesla Energy, require:
• Pre-approval of contractors
• Specific reinstallation guidelines
• Post-installation inspection
If you’re under one of these service agreements, the quote may include time and cost for:
• Documentation
• Scheduling with company representatives
• Delays while waiting for approval or inspection
6. Cable and Hardware Condition
During the initial removal, installers check:
• Cables chewed by squirrels
• Corrosion or aging of connectors
• Microinverter issues
These may not be visible until panels are removed. That’s why many quotes have a clause:
“Price may vary if damage is discovered during removal.”
7. Additional Parts or Upgrades
Sometimes customers request or require upgrades during the reinstallation. These may include:
• Critter guards
• System expansion (adding panels)
• Monitoring device upgrades
• New junction boxes
• Grounding updates to meet current code
8. Permits and Inspections
Depending on your location and utility provider, you may need:
• City permit for reinstallation
• Final inspection
• Permission to operate from utility
A licensed solar contractor will handle these, and permit fees may appear as a line item in your quote.
Conclusion
Every detach and reset project is unique. The quote you receive isn’t just a price for labor—it’s a detailed plan to protect your solar system, your roof, and your warranty. Knowing these details helps you ask the right questions and avoid hidden costs.
If you’re planning a roof project or already received a quote, make sure it considers everything we covered here. And remember: always hire a licensed, certified solar company to avoid costly mistakes.
Click “here” to get an estimate for your solar panel removal.
