Gutter checklists

Inspection. Are the gutters clear? Does water reach the downspout without pooling? Are seams and end caps dry? Are hangers tight and the fascia behind them firm? Are downspouts discharging several feet from the foundation? Is there erosion, staining or a wet spot along the foundation line?

Quote comparison. Every quote should state linear footage, material and gauge, gutter size and profile, number and size of downspouts, discharge locations, fascia repair (or explicit exclusion), guard type and attachment method, haul-away, warranty document reference, payment schedule, and price per linear foot.

Contractor vetting. License status verified with the issuing authority for your jurisdiction, insurance certificate confirmed with the carrier, local references from the last year, written scope, no large deposit, and no expiring price.

Guard-specific questions. How does it attach? Does anything screw through or lift shingles? What does my roofing manufacturer say about that method? What is the price per linear foot? What is the written warranty and what voids it? RoofSmart notes that guard installations that damage shingles can fall outside shingle manufacturer coverage as third-party damage.

How to choose

Inspect twice a year

Pair it with the cleaning schedule so it costs you nothing extra.

Reduce every quote to price per foot

It normalizes bids that include different amounts of downspout and extras.

Require identical scope

Hand each bidder the same written list. Differences in the bid then mean something.

Verify, do not accept documents at face value

Call the license board and the insurance carrier yourself.

Never pay most of it up front

Gutter work is fast. A large deposit on a one-day job is unnecessary.

Keep the photos

Before-and-after photos of the roofline protect you if a dispute comes up later.