Solar panel roof damage and leaks

Leaks after a solar install, or storm damage to panels? What to do right now, who pays to remove and reinstall, and your rights.

Last verified October 9, 2026

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The short answer: If a solar installation caused leaks or roof damage, document everything, notify the company that warrants the system in writing, and check your homeowners insurance. Your contract and warranties decide who pays to remove and reinstall panels for roof work, and some state solar laws now require that to be disclosed upfront.

Key takeaways

Document damage with dated photos and video.
Notify the installer and system owner in writing.
Check your contract for removal and reinstallation terms.
Check your homeowners policy for storm and water damage.
Get an independent roofer's opinion if the cause is disputed.

What to do right now

Stop further damage with a temporary fix, and keep the receipt.
Document everything with dated photos.
Notify the company in writing.
File an insurance claim promptly for storm damage.
Get an independent roofer's assessment if the cause is disputed.
Don't remove panels yourself.

Who pays to remove and reinstall?

When a roof needs work, panels have to come off and go back on, and that can cost real money. Your lease, PPA or warranty decides who pays. Kansas, for example, now requires solar sellers to disclose upfront whether removal and reinstallation for roof work is included in the price. Check your state.

Roof damage and nobody will pay?

A free intake reviews your contract and warranties.

Storm chasers and second sales

After big storms, door-to-door roofers and solar sellers often follow, sometimes pitching a new roof and new panels in one contract. The federal three-day cooling-off right, 16 CFR Part 429, applies to covered home sales.

Common questions

Roof damage FAQs

Who pays to remove solar panels for a new roof?

It depends on your contract, warranties and insurance.

Will insurance cover storm damage to my panels?

It depends on your policy. File promptly.

Can roof damage get me out of my contract?

Damage alone may not, but workmanship failures or misrepresentation can strengthen a case.

Should I remove the panels myself?

No. It can void warranties and trigger default clauses.

Find out where your solar contract stands

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Solar Cancellation HQ is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. This page is general information, and reading it or submitting a form does not create an attorney-client relationship. Not every contract qualifies, and no outcome is guaranteed. We never advise anyone to stop making payments on a solar loan, lease or PPA. Laws and utility rules change, so verify before acting. Last verified October 9, 2026.