How to Hire a Good Gutter Contractor: Checklist

How to Find a Reliable Gutter Contractor

Whether you need your gutters repaired or installed, they are an important part of your home that should be well maintained and cleaned. It’s important to find a contractor you trust, someone local who can do the job quickly and correctly the first time.

• Ask trusted sources (friends, family, and neighbors) for a referral.
• Contact your local Better Business Bureau.
• Connect with trusted siding contractors in your area with Modernize.

How to Vet Your Gutter Contractors

Choosing a reliable gutter contractor helps ensure your repair or replacement is done quickly. Here are some tips for picking the right professional for your project:

• Request quotes for your gutter project from three to four contractors in your area.
• Visit the website of each contractor.
  • Is it updated and professional-looking?
• Explore the customer reviews for each contractor.
  • Are they mostly positive? While you can’t please everyone, consider the negative reviews and responses.
• Ask each contractor on the phone the following questions:
  • How long have you been in business?
  • How much experience do you have with gutter repair or installation?
  • What is your project estimate?
  • Can you provide a list of references?
  • Can you provide proof of insurance for personal liability, worker’s compensation, and property damage coverage?

Meet With Your Top Gutter Contractors

Once you have three or four written estimates and have checked each contractor, meet your top choices in person to go over project details and expectations. We offer a free worksheet to help you compare contractors. Make sure to talk about the following with each contractor:

• Ask for proof of insurance, which should provide their insurance company name, policy number, and policy limits.
• Discuss who will manage warranty details and responsibilities.
• Make sure to get a fixed price before signing a contract.

It’s a good idea to learn about which gutters and materials are best for your home. This depends on things like how many trees are nearby, how much rain you get, your roof type, and your local climate. Knowing the basics will help you ask better questions when you talk to contractors.

Be Aware of Warning Signs

Most contractors work hard and want their customers to be happy, but a few are not honest. To avoid scams, choose a local, trusted gutter contractor. Check their business address and make sure they have the right licenses.

Here are some warning signs to keep in mind:

• Avoid contractors who request the entire project cost, or a large cash deposit, up front.
• Stay away from anyone who tries to rush you into signing a contract. Take your time to choose the contractor who is right for you.
• Watch out for quotes that are much higher or lower than the others. Most gutter installation or repair estimates should be close in price, unless a contractor is using different materials or offering a very different service.

How to Prepare for Your Final Gutter Contractor Meeting

Before your gutter contractor starts the project, go over these final steps at your last meeting.

• Reconfirm your initial quote.
• Agree upon a payment plan.
• Obtain a paper trail of the following:
  • Your contract
  • Project plans
  • Order changes
  • Bills and invoices
  • Proof of insurance and/or permitting, and
  • Contractor correspondence

You can use the Modernize Contractor Checklist to help you find a trusted contractor. This way, you can feel confident your siding project is in good hands. Find the interactive checklist on the Modernize Homeowner Portal or download it here.