We had solar panels installed by Northwind Solar in 2022. At the time of installation, our roof was inspected and we were told no repair or replacement was necessary. I specifically asked what would happen when the roof eventually needed replacement and was told the panels would need to be removed and reinstalled, which had seemed to be blown off as no big deal.
Fast forward to 2026. Our roof is now 20 years old, and 4 skylights have begun to leak. Multiple professionals have recommended replacing the skylights and the roof at the same time, which is reasonable. When we contacted Northwind Solar about removing and reinstalling the panels to allow roof replacement, we were shocked to learn the cost would be more than 1/3 of the total cost of replacing the roof and skylights combined, almost $10,000. Considering the age of the solar panels and associated equipment being only 4 years old, it has to be our assumption that the majority of this expense would be for labor alone, which, in our minds, is unimaginable.
This expense was never clearly explained or quantified during the sales process, and had we understood how substantial it would be, it would have factored heavily into our decision.
After reviewing our utility bills since the panels were installed, we have come to the realization that we will not likely recoup our investment in our lifetime, but we at least took some satisfaction that it helps in this age or rising electric bills and we could feel we were doing something positive for the environment. However, this significant estimate that's been presented has turned an investment providing minimal return into a burdensome expense.
We are disappointed not because removal and reinstallation has a cost--that's understandable--but that the magnitude of that cost was not clearly disclosed up front. I strongly encourage anyone considering solar from this company ask very detailed questions about future roof work and get written, specific pricing for panel removal and reinstallation before signing any contracts. read more
