After going solar, your roof may need professional work over time. From routine maintenance to a full replacement, this can present challenges when your roof is equipped with a solar system. In these scenarios, you may need two contractors to conduct the work.
First, a solar panel removal and reinstallation company. Secondly, a roofing company to complete the repair or reinstallation work. When you work with two contractors, there are issues that can arise during the process making it more stressful and frustrating.
Miscommunication
Communication gaps can become problematic when multiple contractors work on the same project. This can lead to misunderstandings that create delays and mistakes. Your solar system and roof are both valuable, and miscommunication can lead to longer project timelines.
Scheduling Contractors
Contractors tend to run on their own schedules with their own policies. This creates challenges with coordinating work schedules which can create delays. It’s simpler to work with a single contractor that can expedite the process of roofing.
Safety Hazards
Multiple contractors can create conflicts that lead to safety hazards. A lack of coordination increases the risk of accidents and injuries. Untrained roofing contractors can damage the electrical components of your solar system, running the risk of electrical issues and fire.
Cost Overruns
A proper division of labor is necessary to ensure work is completed in a timely manner. Without a clear agreement between the companies, cost overruns become a risk. Contractors may dispute who’s responsible for what, creating conflicts that can become pricey.
The last thing you need when contracting a roof replacement project is unforeseen costs that are out of your control.
Quality Control
Different contractors follow their own standards. Even if you hire two reputable companies, they may have different quality standards. This difference in philosophy and working practices may lead to subpar results.
Post-Service Project Issues
Service after the work is completed is by far the biggest pitfall. Most solar homeowners expect to make one phone call for service after the work is completed to have their issues resolved. You would think contacting the solar contractor to fix solar issues and the roofing contractor to fix roofing issues would be straightforward.
With two contractors, this is not the case. If there is a solar issue, it is clear the solar company needs to fix it to get the solar panels working properly. However, it is a gray area if it is a roofing issue. It is common industry practice for the solar company to take responsibility for leaks within six (6) inches of any penetration. Depending on the solar contractor, they may honor the warranty farther from the penetration or not at all. If the leak is farther than six inches from solar penetrations, the roofer may claim the solar penetration voids the roofing workmanship warranty, which covers the cost of material and labor for roof service. This means the homeowner would have to pay hundreds of dollars for service that should have been covered under the roof warranty. There is an unfortunately high percentage of time where roofers claim the roof warranty is voided and charge for service with roof issues far away from the solar panels.
An All-In-One Solutions Works Best
When replacing your solar-equipped roof, hiring two contractors may be more of a headache than it’s worth. You can take steps to minimize the risk of these pitfalls. These include establishing clear lines of communication and developing a detailed project plan to ensure all work is clearly accounted for. However, at the end of the day, you may be better off working with a company trained in both solar and roofing for better results.
At Fusion Solar Services, we bring experience and unbeatable service to roofing projects on solar-equipped properties. Our process is detailed, beginning with an assessment of the condition of your roofing. We then move into expert panel removal with licensed electricians and solar-trained staff. Our roofing team brings great craftsmanship to ensure every facet of your roof is taken care of.
Then, our team ensures your panels are properly reintegrated into your roof, and recommissioned so they can generate energy once again.
Avoid the headaches that come from managing multiple contractors at the same time. Instead, the Fusion Solar Services team can meet your needs for panel maintenance and roof care. Contact us today to get started on your project.
