Gutter service: compare cleaning, repairs, guards and replacement

Say whether you need debris removal, a leak or attachment repair, downspout work, guards or replacement. Describe the building height and any access restrictions from the ground. Ask which of these tasks the company performs. A cleaning visit does not automatically include resealing, new hangers, guards or roof repairs.

Ask the contractor to explain the affected sections, joints, outlets and downspout routing in its proposal. FEMA’s flood-preparation checklist notes the role of clearing gutter and downspout debris in preventing overflow. Cleaning is not a guarantee against flooding; ask separately about any wider drainage or foundation concern identified.

For replacement, request dimensions, material, finish, supports, downspout connections and disposal of old sections. For guards, ask what debris and maintenance limitations the product has. Confirm access equipment, ground protection, cleanup and the process for approving additional repairs. Do not assume a guard product eliminates all future maintenance.

Ask what photographs or service notes can show the areas worked on without climbing to inspect them yourself. Confirm any follow-up, workmanship or product warranty and what it excludes. Keep the included sections and approved additions with the invoice so a future leak, cleaning request or warranty question has a clear starting point.