Between mid fall and the end of the season, a homeowner should clean out the gutters, especially if there are trees growing near the house. When you know you’ll be too busy or you’re affected by heights or you just don’t want to clean the gutters yourself, choose a gutter cleaning company to do it for you.
Referrals and Research
Whether you get the name of a gutter cleaning service from a friend, family member or someone at work, do some research of your own. Explore the company’s website; verify its Better Business Bureau rating; wherever possible, check with any individuals or companies that provided website testimonials.
Ask for Proof
A gutter cleaning business sends out staff to work on your property. Ask to see: any relevant licenses; certification certificates; and/or memberships to local, provincial or national business/professional associations. If you intend on hiring the company, ask if they are insured, including worker’s compensation and liability coverage.
Know what to Expect
Get at least three estimates; it will give you a better sense of what’s included and how much it will cost. While different gutter cleaning companies offer different services and levels of service, they should: remove the debris from inside the gutters; clean the exterior surface of the gutters; check the downspouts for clogs; clean up afterward; and alert you to any potential problems related to the roofing and gutter systems.
The contract you sign when you hire a gutter cleaning company is based on the original estimate. Read both documents carefully – if there are additions to the contract that weren’t in the estimate, or if something in the contract doesn’t make sense, ask for clarification.
Ask about Special Offers
Check if the company has any current deals or promotions. Ask about special discounts the gutter cleaning company might offer to seniors, members of certain organizations, or card holders of customer appreciation programs. Also check to see if the company offers discounts on bundled services or the services of repeat customers.
