BBB Tip: Finding a gutter cleaning company

(BBB) — The Better Business Bureau advises homeowners to do their research before hiring a gutter contractor or company.

Read more or hear from BBB Regional Director Pamela Hernandez below: Audio Player

Now is the time to clean out the debris that has collected in your gutters during the winter and make sure they’re ready to handle April showers. You may also need gutters repaired or installed after the storms earlier this spring.

While people often clean their own gutters, many prefer to hire a skilled professional for cleaning or repairs. Either way, failing to maintain your gutters properly can result in water damage to your home.

When you hire a gutter company, look for a strong track record of great service. BBB received nearly 400 complaints last year about gutter contractors and gutter cleaning or installation companies.

In June 2024, a Glen Carbon, IL consumer reported that he had reached out to a local gutter contractor to install gutters and downspouts. The contractor requested a $1,800 personal check as a deposit to get the job done quickly. The consumer paid the deposit, but the contractor never returned to complete the work and refused to refund the consumer.

“Homeowners who hire a gutter company are trusting that company to treat their home and money with respect,” said Michelle L. Corey, BBB St. Louis president and CEO. “BBB recommends looking for companies that have a documented track record of responsiveness and great service.”

How to hire a gutter company you can count on:

• Research with BBB. You can search BBB.org to find BBB Business Profiles for trusted gutter companies near you. From there, you can see if a business BBB Accredited, see its rating, read reviews and find out if customers have filed complaints about the business.
• Get multiple quotes. Ask at least three companies for quotes based on the same requirements – BBB’s Get a Quote service can help you get quotes from BBB Accredited Businesses. Discuss pricing, timing and materials in detail with each contractor. The lowest bid might not be the best bid; extra-low prices could mean the contractor is cutting corners or doesn’t fully understand your needs.
• Ask about license, insurance and permits. Verify that the company is licensed for the kind of work you need and check with local authorities to find out whether you need any permits. Request proof of insurance.
• Ask about safety measures. A responsible gutter company should take intentional safety measures to prevent injuries and property damage while they’re working on your home.
• Review warranty coverage. Some gutter companies may offer a warranty or guarantee for certain products or services. If so, make sure you understand the terms before you pay for their services.
• Get it in writing. Make sure you get a written contract that covers all details of the job, including the expected start and completion dates. Read the contract carefully before signing or paying any money. Keep your contract for future reference and ask the contractor to provide a lien waiver (a statement that all suppliers and contractors have been paid for materials and labor) when the job is completed.
• Don’t pay in full before work is done. BBB frequently receives reports from customers who paid a large deposit or paid in full up front, only for the company to disappear. In some cases, a company may need a down payment to cover materials, but the bulk of the money should not be due until the work is completed.