Should you replace your roof before installing solar in New York?
Often, yes. NYSERDA says solar panels should not be installed on old or damaged roofs, and its Solar Guidebook says any needed roof repair or replacement must be done before the system goes in.[1][2] Panels usually stay up for decades, so if your roof is near the end of its life, reroofing first avoids paying to remove and reinstall the array later.
NYSERDA: do a self-assessment of your roof; panels should not go on old or damaged roofs, and ask about repairs if shingles are cracked or missing.[1]
NYSERDA Solar Guidebook: all roof penetrations must be flashed, the roof must be strong enough for the added load, and repair or replacement must happen first.[2]
NYS Department of Public Service: itemize costs, permits and financing terms, including any liens, before you sign.[3]
Is your roof ready?
Compare your roof's age to typical lifespans in our WNY roof lifespan guide, and run through the inspection checklist. Signs like curling, missing or cracked shingles, granule loss and flashing problems point to replacement first.[4] Many 1970s–1990s roofs in Amherst, Clarence and Lancaster are reaching that point.
Contract terms to ask for
Who is responsible for roof leaks at panel mounts after installation.
The cost to remove and reinstall the array if the roof needs work later.
How the mounting affects your roofing warranty; see roof warranties.
For flat roofs, whether ballasted racking is too heavy; NYSERDA notes ballast adds substantial weight.[2]
Sources retrieved October 16–20, 2026. Cost figures are published national averages, not quotes and not WNY-specific. This guide is general information, not legal or insurance advice.
Talk to a local roofer
Get itemized written quotes from contractors who know Western New York winters.