Solar Panel Removal

How Much Does it Cost to Remove Solar Panels?

What will solar panel removal cost you? On average in [y], removing solar panels from a roof runs between $300 and $750 per panel, but that price can go higher depending on the specifics. Your total cost will depend on how many panels you have, whether you lease or own the system, and the condition of the panels and roof. If the job includes roof repairs, electrical work, or additional labor, costs can climb above $1,000 per panel in more complex cases. For the most accurate pricing, talk to a local solar professional who can assess your setup and provide a customized quote.

Factors That Determine Solar Panel Removal Costs

If you’re removing leased panels, be aware of potential early termination fees, as leases typically last around 25 years. In those cases, the solar developer is usually responsible for removal at the end of the lease.

If you own the system and panels are damaged, repairs could add $200 to $1,000 per panel to your total. Other factors like permits, roof condition, and mounting type can also affect your final bill. Because of these variables, it’s essential to get a custom quote from a local solar professional. They can give you a detailed estimate tailored to your home and system.

Solar Panel Removal Cost

There are a few rare circumstances in which solar panels may need to be removed.

• Budget additional costs for possible roof repairs

• Calculate shipping costs if you are moving the panels to a new house

• Not a good candidate for DIY work

Average Cost:

$300 - $750

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Additional Removal Costs

You may also need to budget for the following costs when removing solar panels:

• Utility Disconnection: Disconnecting the system from the utility main line can add $100 to $300 to your total cost.
• Mounting Hardware Removal: Taking down mounting brackets and support systems may increase the overall price, especially if specialized hardware is used.
• Panel Transportation: If you’re moving and need to ship your solar panels, budget around $200 to $300, depending on distance and handling requirements.
• Minor Roof Repairs: Small patch jobs to seal holes or fix installation damage typically start at $600.
• Full Roof Replacement: If the entire roof needs replacement, expect to pay between $15,000 and $25,000 or more, depending on roof size and material.
• Professional Quote: Always talk with your contractor or solar installer to get a full breakdown of expected costs based on your home and system.

Here’s a breakdown of costs for removing solar panels. The average home has 20 to 25 panels.

Do Your Solar Panels Need To Be Removed?

If a recent storm or other weather event has damaged your solar panels, it’s important to quickly determine whether they need repairs or full replacement. Schedule an inspection with your solar installer to assess the damage. In some cases, repairs can be done without taking the panels down. For example, cracked glass might be patched or soldered on-site. Depending on the issue, your installer may be able to fix the problem without fully removing the panels from your roof.

When to Remove Your Solar Panels

There are clear signs that your panels may be failing or need to be removed. Watch for these warning signs:

• A drop in energy production or a sudden increase in your electric bill can indicate reduced panel efficiency.
• After a major storm, inspect your panels for visible damage. A single damaged panel may need replacement, but this doesn’t always mean your entire system must be replaced.
• Discoloration on the surface of a panel could point to corrosion or uneven temperature distribution — both signs of possible internal damage.

When to Keep Your Solar Panels

Solar panels are a long-term investment designed to last 25 to 30 years, and they’re built to handle weather and wear. Here’s when it makes sense to keep your panels in place:

• Minor cracks or cosmetic damage after a storm might not affect performance. If the appearance bothers you, a repair or replacement is often possible without removing the entire system.
• Check your warranty to see if the damage is covered. It may save you the cost of repairs or replacement.
• Regular cleaning, usually twice a year, helps maintain performance. You don’t need to remove your panels to clean them. Just make sure dirt, dust, or debris isn’t reducing their efficiency.

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How to Remove Solar Panels

Removing solar panels is not a project you can quickly learn from watching a how-to video. Although solar panels are relatively lightweight (between 33 to 44 pounds on average), they are extremely delicate and contain electrical wiring that could cause major damage if improperly handled. Not to mention, this all requires you to do the work while balancing on your roof! This is a job best left to the professionals.

For smaller jobs, such as having your panels cleaned or repaired, the removal may be as simple as unbolting the panels from their mounting device and unplugging the connecting power wires below. Then, the panels will have to be remounted to the roof and reconnected.

In the case of a full removal, the solar circuit must also be disconnected from the main line, a task that can complicate the work and increase your labor fees. Again, these fees will be worth it knowing an expert is doing it.

If you are removing the panels to sell your home, you’ll need the installer to remove the mounting hardware that holds the panels upright. Once they remove these pieces, it’s possible that you will expose openings where the initial installer cut into your roof to add the mounting device. These will need to be patched to keep the roof from leaking. Typically, that means calling in an additional contractor who specializes in roofing.

Solar Panel Removal Companies

Any solar installer or solar company should be able to remove panels for you in order to complete the work safely. They will also carry insurance that allows them to cover any damage that occurs in the event of an accident. 

However, if the company you purchased from initially is no longer in business, or you prefer to work with another solar pro for whatever reason, any electrician with an NABCEP PV installation certification can also do the work. You can search NABCEP’s database of installers to locate one operating in your area.

Best Solar Panel Companies

Explore top solar panel installers that can assess your solar panels and remove them if needed.

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How to Choose a Solar Panel Removal Company

Here’s what you should look for in a removal company:

• Compare Quotes: Always get estimates from multiple companies. If one quote is much higher or lower than the others, ask why. It could reveal important details about labor, materials, or experience.
• Check Certifications and Licenses: Requirements vary by state and even by city. Some areas may also require permits for panel removal or reinstallation, so be sure the company is up to code.
• Evaluate Customer Service: Pay attention to how the company communicates with you during the quote process. If you feel dismissed, rushed, or uncomfortable from the beginning, consider it a red flag.

Save yourself the time and effort finding a qualified solar panel company in your area, and let Modernize help. Our network of top notch solar panel professionals are well-equipped to install, remove, and assess the performance of your home solar panels.

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