Last Updated on November 14, 2024
Rain gutters on our homes should be cleaned out twice a year – spring and fall. [I’ll be honest, we only do it in the fall unless there is an issue…. but as I tell my kids, do as I say, not as I do….]. Anywho, if you are seeking a professional gutter cleaning service, check out these recommended questions to help choose the best contractor for the job. And to make things even easier for you (BTW – you’re welcome 😉), at the end of this post, be sure to print out the free worksheet to help vet out the best contractor for the job. Let’s get to it!
Backstory
We have had the same gutter cleaners for 10+ years. And they have done a fine job – reasonably priced, no major complaints except having to contact them a few times a fall to ensure they don’t forget me (they did one year). They replaced our roof a few years ago and we were extremely pleased.
However, our neighbors have been raving about this other gutter guy. And I’m intrigued. Why? Maybe this gutter service has slightly better customer service, more competitive pricing. Plus I admit that the contractor we have used is a family company and I’ve been dealing less with the dad and more with the son. Maybe it’s a generational issue, I don’t connect as well with them.
I decided to reach out to this other gutter cleaning service (and another one recommended in the neighborhood) and get estimates. And it got me thinking about what I should be looking for in a gutter cleaning service.
So I searched around the web and found these 7 tips from experts to help us ensure that we homeowners are selecting and choosing the right gutter cleaning contractor here we go.
#1: How Long Have You Been in Business?
This simple question should be asked of any contractor coming onto your property. If they’ve been in business for a long time, chances are they know what they’re doing.
A professional gutter cleaning service with years of experience can do the job more efficiently and safely than an amateur.
As a sidenote, it’s a good idea to check to see if the company has a physical office location. Many gutter cleaning services are operated out of individuals’ basements or even from the back of a van! If this is the case, this should be a red flag.
#2: Are You Licensed and Insured?
This is non-negotiable – every contractor who works on your home, including a gutter cleaning service, should be fully licensed and insured. Why? To protect your property, the workers, and your wallet in the event that something goes wrong.
Working up on ladders poses potential hazards. If an uninsured worker falls and gets hurt on your property, you could be held liable for resulting injuries and pay for their medical bills. Or if property damage (like water damage) occurs during the cleaning, you could be liable for costly repairs and damages. Gutters are meant to stop water intrusion into your home’s foundation. If they don’t work correctly, it can cause significant damage to the foundation of your home.
Ask to see a current certificate of insurance. Ask about their business license and safety record. Have the conversation for peace of mind.
#3: Are Your Employees Background-Screened?
Last year, my neighbor’s house was under renovation. Contractors coming in and out for several weeks. And coincidentally, their house was robbed. I won’t go into details, but my neighbors were fairly certain it was one of the workers.
Ask a potential gutter cleaning service the question of whether and how they background-screen potential employees. Unfortunately, you won’t truly know if they actually appropriately vet their workers. They could flat-out lie. But if the contractor avoids the question, that’s a red flag.
#4: How Do You Clean Gutters?
There are several different methods and equipment that gutter cleaning services rely on. Some use a pressure washer as the cleaning process, while others manually use a brush or leaf blower to remove debris from a gutter system. Others use gutter robots and extendable grabbers, which the pros have proven ineffective.
Honestly, I don’t think the average homeowner knows which method is best to clean their gutter system. That’s one of the reasons you hire a professional gutter cleaning company, right? But, ask the question. Why? First, a reputable service will clearly communicate their process. And second, when the workers show up, you have an idea of what they will be doing.
#5: What is Your Customer Satisfaction Guarantee?
A professional gutter cleaner will stand behind their work and offer you a satisfaction guarantee. It usually is not complicated – something as basic as if your gutter system gets clogged over the next 60 days, give us a call.
If they do not provide one, then it’s a potential red flag.
#6: Can I Have a Free Estimate?
The cost of to clean gutters shouldn’t empty your wallet. Personally, I think it’s great value. Avoids me from climbing a ladder.
But gutter cleaning costs will vary based on factors such as location, the size and age of your house, etc. Ensure that the gutter cleaning contractor gives you all the details in your free quote IN WRITING. Never rely on a verbal estimate. Require a written estimate with details that include:
- Cost
- Services (debris removal, gutter flushing, inspection, etc..)
- Time to complete job (usually 1-2 hours)
- Estimated number of workers.
- Additional services or fees
#7: Where’s the Best Place to Read Reviews?
Reviews from past customers give you a valuable indication of the quality of a contractor. First check out online reviews on Angie’s List, Better Business Bureau and Yelp to find trustworthy reviews.
BUT also directly ask the gutter cleaners where you will find testimonials. A reputable contractor will immediately refer you to a specific online site OR even give you contacts – i.e. names and numbers – of references. If the contractor hems and haws, that might be a red flag.
Contractor Comparison Worksheet
In my opinion, the best way to chose the right gutter cleaning service is to prioritize licensed and insured services with a positive customer views and reputation. Costs are important, BUT be leery of unusually low prices.
To help evaluate these factors, I’ve included this one-page downloadable comparison worksheet. Once you have collected free written estimates from a few gutter cleaners, complete the worksheet to help you make an informed decision. Good luck!
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