In New York City, many homeowners delay getting solar panels because of one big concern: the condition of their roof. If your roof leaks, has soft spots, missing shingles, or pooling water, it can’t support a solar panel installation safely. 

But with Mpower Solar, those issues don’t have to stop you. We include roof and electrical repairs with every solar installation at no additional cost—unlike other companies that charge extra.

With the New York State and New York City tax incentives for installing solar along with flexible financing options, it’s easy to fix your roof and go solar at the same time. 

Understanding Why Roof Condition Matters

Solar panels add weight to your roof, so the surface beneath must be secure and watertight. If leaks already exist, water can seep into the wood, leaving it soft or waterlogged. “Typically, the way to know very easily without being a professional if the roof condition is right is if you have leaks. If you have leaks, you probably shouldn’t put solar on yet,” explains Jacob Lezell, Chief Solar Officer at Mpower Solar.

Five Common Roof Issues We Repair Before Installing Solar

1. Worn or Damaged Shingles

New York’s climate takes a toll. Heavy snow, summer heat, and Nor’easters cause shingles to warp, crack, or go missing. Left unfixed, these lead to water intrusion. At Mpower Solar our technicians will replace worn shingles free of charge so your roof is ready for solar.

2. Leaks and Water Damage

Leaks are one of the clearest signs a roof needs attention. “If the wood is already waterlogged and we install solar in that same wood, it could cause more leaks,” says Jacob. To prepare a roof for solar we’ll patch leaks, seal vulnerable areas, and make sure the roof is watertight before panels are mounted.

3. Weak or Aging Roof Decking

Even with fresh shingles, the structure underneath a roof may be compromised. Soft spots indicate damaged decking that cannot support solar hardware. We reinforce or replace sections of decking so the system rests on a solid foundation.

4. Poor Drainage and Standing Water

Flat roofs, common in Brooklyn and Queens, often suffer from pooling water. “Those get damaged more easily because the water sits a lot more than on a pitched roof where it slopes down,” explains Jacob. Cracks, bubbles, and weak spots can develop around vents, skylights, and other penetrations. At Mpower Solar we repair these issues and, if needed, add a new protective roof layer.

5. Outdated or Improper Roofing Materials

Some older NYC homes have outdated materials that aren’t compatible with solar. We replace these with modern, durable materials that extend the roof’s lifespan and make it solar-ready.

Why Mpower Solar Includes Roof Repairs

Other solar companies treat roof problems as an extra bill. We take the opposite approach. As Jacob explains: “Unlike other companies who charge for repairs and new roofs, if it’s an easy fix, we’ll just do it.”

This approach is simple. We want homeowners to go solar without unexpected costs or complications. If your roof is repairable, we’ll fix it. If your roof is beyond repair and requires full replacement, we’ll be upfront about that too.

The Bottom Line on Free Roof Repairs with Solar Panels

For homeowners dealing with roof leaks or damage, solar can actually be the best time to take action. With Mpower Solar, roof repairs are part of the package. With these repairs, you’ll get a watertight, durable roof and a solar system designed to last for decades. That means lower energy bills, protection against Con Edison’s rate hikes, and peace of mind knowing your home is protected from above.

If you’re wondering whether your roof is ready for solar, let us take a look. We’ll handle the inspection, the repairs, and the installation.

Ready to fix your roof and install solar panels in NYC? Contact Mpower Solar today to schedule your free consultation.