I get this question a lot: Can you take solar panels with you when you move? The simple and straight answer is yes, you can take your solar panels with you when you move, but it might not be the most cost-effective option.
What to do if I want to take solar panels when you move?
My recommendation would be to read your contract. As a solar installer, usually we had a clause that says that the solar panel system needed to stay at the place where it was installed and contact us in case you want to sell your home.
But the contract can be different from each solar installation company; make sure you read it and see if it is possible.
Why taking solar panels with you when you move is a bad idea?
Taking solar panels with you is not financially a good idea, This is because there are many things that you need to consider.
Removing Solar Panels Can Leave a Mess
Solar panels are installed on your roof, and you need to make some holes to install them, so removing them will make your roof have some holes.
Also remember that if the solar panels have been on the roof for a long time, they will leave a spot or marks on the area where the solar panels were installed; the old roof will have holes and two colors.
Removal and Reinstallation Can Be Expensive
Removing solar panels can cost you more money because you will have to pay a professional to remove them, and if you decide to remove them yourself, it will cost you time, sometimes both.
The Location of Your New Home
The location of your home is a key factor to consider before you decide to move with your solar panels.
There are local regulations and local fire codes to follow; sometimes this can vary from one location to another.
The Weather in Your New Location
For solar panels to produce electricity, they need sun. Each location gets different sun hours per day, some get more rain, and so on.
If your new location is different from where you are coming from, you will have to recalculate how many panels you need.
The Difference in Energy Costs
Each state or country has its own energy policies and incentives. This will result in the difference in energy cost from one location to another.
The difference in energy costs from one place to another can make one location more attractive to install solar energy than the other.
The Type of Roof on Your New Home
The type of roof on your new home can determine if you can install or not solar panels there; You need to evaluate the roof and figure out if it can handle solar panels.
Can you put solar panels on a metal roof?
The Possibility of Damaging the Solar Panels in Transit
There’s always a risk of damage to anything that you transport when you move. Your solar panels are no exception.
There’s a possibility that they could get damaged during any part of the uninstallation, moving, and re-installation process.
FAQ:Can You Take Solar Panels with You When You Move?
Is It Worth It to Move Solar Panels?
Due to the factors I mentioned, including the cost and the risk of damaging them, personally, I find that it isn’t worth it to move the solar panel with you.
Leaving solar panels on the house for the new owners when you move will increase the amount you can sell the house for.
Those additional funds can then be used to purchase and install new solar panels at your new house.
Won’t Leaving Solar Panels Behind Negate Your Savings?
No, leaving solar panels behind will increase the value of the house. I have seen people sell homes with solar panels for up to 15% of the house’s market value.
I know there are some real estate agents who will discourage people from selling houses with solar panels, but from my experience, this is due to the lack of knowledge on their side.
Can I move my solar panels with me?
Yes, provided it has been set up for moving. Of course, if you use some of the power generated, you can move the panels on a horizontal sweep to get the best of the day’s sun
Can solar panels be removed and reinstalled?
While removing solar panels isn’t overly complex—dismantling your modules, racking, mounting hardware, and wiring can be done in a day—the reinstallation requires technical expertise. Equipment that’s been mishandled may not work correctly once it’s reconnected, costing you more down the road
Can I take down my solar panels?
The answer is yes, but it does require professionals. There are a range of reasons people choose to remove their solar panels: The roof needs to be repaired or painted, so panels need to be temporarily removed and replaced.
Key takeaways: Can You Take Solar Panels with You When You Move?
My point of view is that it is always a better financial decision to leave the current system as it is, increasing the property value, and then installing a brand new system with a refreshed warranty and more modern technology at the new property.
In such a case, you would come out net positive just from the increased sale value, making solar a brilliant investment!