Frequently Asked Questions

Here are straight answers to the questions people ask us most. Don’t see yours? Call (315) 857-8638 and ask a real person.

About us

What is The Roofing Advocate?

We’re a free service for homeowners in Central New York. Instead of calling roofer after roofer, you make one call to us. We listen, help you understand what you need, and connect you with a vetted local roofer who fits the job.

Are you a roofing company?

No. We don’t do roofing work. We work for you and connect you with roofers we’ve worked with for years.

Who answers when I call?

A real person picks up. No call center, no phone tree. We live and work here too.

What areas do you serve?

All of Central New York: Greater Syracuse, the Finger Lakes, the Mohawk Valley, the Southern Tier, Oswego County and the North Country. Check your town or ZIP code on our Areas We Serve page, or just call and ask.

How it works

How do you choose which roofer to send?

We look at three things: where your home is, what kind of job it is, and which of our vetted roofers can come out soonest. Then we connect you.

How fast can a roofer come out?

Often as soon as the next day. If water is coming in, tell us and we’ll look for the fastest option.

How do you vet your roofers?

We work with a network of vetted roofers held to a standard of quality and service. They are roofing companies we have worked with for years and trust with our own customers. Every roofer we send is expected to give you a clear plan and price, show up when they say they will, and treat you with respect.

What if I want a second opinion?

Our goal is to send the right roofer the first time. But if you aren’t comfortable with the first one, call us back and we’ll send another roofer from our network. Still free.

Do I have to hire the roofer you send?

No. There’s no obligation. You decide.

Cost

Is it really free?

Yes. You never pay us anything. Roofers in our network pay us a referral fee when we send them a job, and that fee is never added to your price. You only pay the roofer, for work you agree to.

Do you work for the roofer?

No. We work for you, not the roofer. Our priority is finding the best outcome for you, not selling a job. If the first roofer isn’t the right fit, call us back and we’ll send another.

Why not just search for a roofer online?

You can. But it’s hard to tell from a website who shows up, who does good work, and who will still be around next year. We already know, because we’ve worked with them.

Finding a trustworthy roofer

How can I tell if a roofer is trustworthy?

Look for a local address, proof of insurance, a written estimate, photos of the problem, and no pressure to sign today. Be careful with anyone who asks for a large deposit up front or knocks on doors after storms.

What should a roofing estimate include?

The scope of work, materials by brand, tear-off and disposal, decking replacement cost, permits, warranties, and a start date. If it’s vague, ask questions.

Do you help with insurance claims?

We can connect you with a roofer who can inspect and document the damage. Coverage depends on your policy, so check with your insurance company.

Still have a question?

Call us. A real person answers.

Scroll to Top