The Homeowner's Gutter Inspection Checklist

Before you climb anything

Most of this checklist is done from the ground with binoculars. Never get on a ladder in wet conditions.

1. Look for staining below the gutter line Dark vertical streaks on the fascia mean water is going over the back edge.

2. Check downspout discharge Water should exit at least 4 feet from the foundation.

3. Watch during rain Overflow at a corner usually means a blockage; overflow along a whole run usually means undersizing or pitch problems.

4. Inspect the seams Seams are the first thing to fail on sectional gutters. Seamless systems only have seams at corners and outlets.

5. Look at the ground Eroded mulch, splash marks on siding, and trenching in the soil are all evidence of overflow.

6. Check the fascia and soffit Soft, spongy, or discolored wood means water has been sitting there for seasons, not weeks.

7. Note ice dam history Recurring ice dams are usually an attic insulation problem, not a gutter problem. Fix the cause before replacing the gutter.

8-12. The ladder items If you are comfortable and conditions are dry: check for standing water (bad pitch), granule buildup (aging roof), loose hangers, rusted spikes, and nesting debris.

When to call someone If you find two or more of: sagging sections, rotted fascia, basement moisture, or repeated overflow - get an inspection. Water damage compounds fast.