Replacing a roof that has solar panels in Connecticut

Short answer: yes, it is a normal job. The panels come off, the roof is replaced and the panels go back on. Most of the work is coordinating two trades and reading the solar paperwork.

The usual sequence

1. The solar installer shuts the system down, removes the panels and racking, and stores them.
2. The roofer tears off and replaces the roof, planning new flashing for every racking mount.
3. The solar installer reinstalls and seals the mounts and panels and reconnects the system.

A few companies handle both, but most homeowners end up coordinating two contractors. Get both to agree on dates before the old roof comes off, and check that each holds a Connecticut Home Improvement Contractor registration; see how to check a Connecticut roofer.

Owned or leased changes who can move the panels

• You own the system. You choose who removes and reinstalls it, although the original installation paperwork may say who is allowed to work on it.
• You lease the panels or have a power purchase agreement. The panels belong to the solar company. Agreements usually require advance notice and say only the company or its approved installer may move them. Call before booking the roofer.

Permits and historic districts

A full roof replacement in Hartford and the surrounding towns normally needs a building permit; see do you need a permit. In a local historic district, visible changes such as a new roofing material may need a certificate of appropriateness first, and some commissions also look at where panels go.

Timing

Panels are expected to stay up for decades, longer than many asphalt roofs. If the roof under a planned array is more than about 15 years old, replacing it first usually makes sense. If an existing roof is leaking under the panels, do not wait for spring: leaks under an array are hard to trace, and in a Connecticut winter they feed ice dams.

For the shingle replacement itself, see asphalt shingle roof replacement.