FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is gutter cleaning necessary?
Out of sight - out of mind. Here are some key reasons why gutter cleaning is a critical part of building and home maintenance for homeowners or body corporates:
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Prevention of Water Damage: Regular gutter cleaning is essential to prevent water damage to the property. Blocked gutters can cause rainwater to overflow and seep into the building's interior, leading to water damage on ceilings, walls, and other areas. This can result in costly repairs and potential mold growth. By keeping gutters clean, homeowners can ensure proper water flow and prevent water-related damage to their homes.
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Maintenance of Structural Integrity: Maintaining clean gutters is crucial for the overall structural integrity of the property. Neglected gutters can become clogged with leaves, debris, and even plants, which can add significant weight and strain to the guttering system. Over time, this extra weight can cause the gutters to sag, detach from the building, or even collapse. Regular gutter cleaning helps ensure that the guttering system remains structurally sound, protecting the property from potential damage.
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Impact on Home Insurance Claims: Clean gutters can have an impact on home insurance claims. Some insurance policies may require regular gutter maintenance as part of their coverage conditions. Neglecting gutter cleaning and maintenance may result in claims being denied for damage caused by overflowing gutters or improper maintenance. By regularly cleaning gutters and documenting the maintenance activities, homeowners can ensure compliance with insurance requirements and increase the chances of successful insurance claims in case of damage.
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Reduced Risk of Fire and Safety Hazards: Gutter cleaning plays a vital role in reducing the risk of fire and safety hazards. Dry leaves, twigs, and debris accumulated in gutters can become potential fuel sources during a fire outbreak. Additionally, clogged gutters can create an environment conducive to pests, such as mosquitoes, and provide a breeding ground for bacteria and mold. Regular gutter cleaning helps minimize fire risks and maintain a safe and healthy environment for homeowners.
Remember, it's important to consider individual property characteristics and environmental factors when determining the frequency of gutter cleaning. Consulting with a professional gutter cleaning service can provide personalized advice based on specific needs and circumstances.
Do gutter cleaners need insurance?
Public liability insurance is highly recommended for any business that provides services to customers and deals with the public. While the requirements for insurance can vary between states and professions, having public liability insurance helps protect businesses from potential liabilities and compensation claims resulting from harm caused to third parties during business activities. Although it cannot eliminate all risks, having insurance coverage allows businesses to financially cover any compensation they may be required to pay in such circumstances.
When hiring a gutter cleaner, gutter guard installer, solar panel cleaner, gutter repairer, or roof repairer, it is essential to ensure they have public liability insurance. This ensures that the service provider can cover any damages or injuries that may occur as a result of their work. For instance, in the event of a ladder strap failure combined with a gust of wind causing the ladder to fall and break a window, having public liability insurance provides reassurance that the service provider can handle the associated costs.
To verify if a gutter cleaner has public liability insurance, you can request to see their certificate of currency. This document serves as proof of their insurance coverage and specifies the amount of money the business is covered for. At Just Gutters Sunshine Coast, we are fully covered by $10 million public liability insurance and comply with all insurance requirements. We are happy to provide a copy of our Public Liability Certificates of Currency upon request.
Rest assured that our professional team is covered by insurance, offering you peace of mind throughout our service.
Does home insurance require regular gutter cleaning?
While home insurance policies can vary, it is highly recommended to review the full insurance policy PDS Statements (product disclosure statement & policy wording) to understand the specific requirements. Here's what two of the largest insurance companies in Australia, QBE and Suncorp, have to say about gutter cleaning and its impact on insurance claims:
QBE states: "We Won't Cover - damage due to overflowing gutters or guttering if your building hasn't been properly maintained. For example, we won't pay for damage because you don't regularly remove leaves and other debris from your gutters, particularly when rain is expected. Definition of properly maintained - Structurally sound, watertight, secure, and in a good state of repair, with roof guttering regularly cleaned."
SUNCORP states: "Things We Don't Cover - Loss or damage to, or caused by, connected with or arising from, or liability caused by, connected with or arising from any part of the home not being in good condition such as:
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There are blocked gutters
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There are gutters falling down, missing, or rusted through or otherwise in disrepair
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Plant matter is growing into the home walls, windows, and gutters." Your responsibilities are:
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Keep the home structurally sound, watertight, secure, and well-maintained (including gutters)
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Ensure that the home and contents are kept in good condition (e.g., no blocked gutters, rusted roof)."
We strongly recommend discussing your specific insurance policy with your home insurance provider for further details. It's also advisable to keep records of any home maintenance activities. At Just Gutters Sunshine Coast, we provide proof of service and photo records of your gutters with every service. Additionally, our team of professionals can offer recommendations on the frequency of gutter cleaning based on the level and type of debris in your gutters. In some cases, installing gutter guards may be beneficial to help maintain clean gutters, especially if you experience a high level of debris. We also provide a reminder service to ensure your gutters are well-maintained to a schedule, minimizing the risk of your home insurance being affected.
How often do gutters need cleaning?
Many clients often ask us, "So, how often do I need to clean my gutters?" The recommended frequency to maintain the integrity of your gutters and roof is typically 1-2 times a year, which translates to every 6-12 months. However, some situations may require more frequent cleaning, such as every 2-3 months, especially if you have a high level of debris constantly accumulating.
But is it really necessary to clean your gutters 1-2 times a year? How do you determine what suits your gutters? Consider the following factors:
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Type of Debris: The type of leaf and stick debris that falls on your roof plays a significant role in determining the cleaning frequency. For instance, pine trees drop pine needles all year round, necessitating more frequent gutter maintenance, possibly every 2-3 months, to prevent blockages. Gum trees, with their continuous leaf and stick debris, can have a similar effect. A professional gutter cleaner can analyze your specific debris type and provide insights based on their experience.
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Gutter Size: Gutters are designed to handle a certain amount of leaf debris and still effectively flush rainwater away from the house. However, if the gutter size is very small, cleaning may need to be more frequent as the water won't be able to pass along the guttering efficiently.
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Trees Surrounding Property: Consider the number of trees surrounding your property or overhanging your roof. More trees in close proximity can result in a higher volume of debris falling into your gutters, requiring more frequent cleaning.
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Weather Conditions: Living in South East Queensland, we often experience cyclones and heavy storms, especially during summer or La Niña weather patterns. During periods of heavy rainfall, it is logical to expect that more frequent gutter cleaning may be necessary to ensure rainwater flows down the downpipes properly and doesn't backflow into the roof cavity.
To determine an effective maintenance schedule, it's advisable to consult a professional gutter cleaner who can evaluate all the above factors and provide tailored recommendations based on your specific circumstances.
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How much does gutter cleaning cost?
The cost of a standard gutter clean is typically $250+GST. This price generally applies to most homes. However, additional factors may affect the overall cost. For instance, if you have gutter guard that needs to be uninstalled and reinstalled, the cost may be higher. If your property includes multiple buildings, such as a separate granny flat or a large shed, additional charges may apply.
It's important to note that many gutter cleaners have a minimum charge to cover travel and business expenses. This helps ensure that the service remains economically viable for both the provider and the customer.
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How much does gutter repairs cost?
Gutter and roof repair costs can vary significantly as the specific repair requirements can differ for each case. It's difficult to provide an exact cost without assessing the specific repair needs. However, as a rough estimate, an average gutter repair can range anywhere from $100 to $300.
It's important to note that the actual cost will depend on various factors such as the extent of the damage, the type of repair needed, the materials required, and the complexity of the repair process. To obtain an accurate cost estimate for your gutter repair, it's recommended to consult a professional gutter and roof repair service. They can assess the specific repair needs and provide a detailed cost breakdown based on the scope of the work.
Gutters should be cleaned at least once a year as a minimum requirement. However, the optimal timing may vary depending on the specific characteristics of your home. In general, we recommend cleaning your gutters in the autumn to early winter period. During this time, many trees shed debris, and gutters are likely to accumulate a significant amount of leaves and other materials.
On the Sunshine Coast, which is part of South East Queensland, it's important to consider the local weather conditions. Summers in this region can bring harsh weather conditions, such as cyclones, storms, and bushfires. During summer storms, heavy rainfall can cause gutters to overflow if they are blocked. Additionally, having debris in the gutters during bushfire seasons can pose a fire risk.
To ensure proper gutter maintenance, it's crucial to schedule cleanings before the onset of these weather events. By having your gutters cleaned in the autumn and ensuring they are free from debris during summer and bushfire seasons, you can minimize the risk of overflow and potential fire hazards.
Keep in mind that individual circumstances may vary, so it's advisable to consult with a professional gutter cleaning service to determine the most appropriate time for gutter cleaning based on your specific location, tree coverage, and local weather patterns.
Can I clean my own gutters?
Yes, some people do attempt to clean their own gutters, typically if they have a one-storey home. However, it is important to note that professional gutter cleaning is generally recommended to ensure safety and thoroughness. If you are determined to take on the task yourself, here are some essential points to consider:
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Safety Risks: Cleaning gutters often involves working at heights, which can pose a significant risk of falling or ladder accidents. Adequate experience, training, and the right safety equipment, such as an appropriate anchor system and harness, are essential for working safely on roofs. Cleaning gutters from a ladder or off the ground can be time-consuming and less effective, as solidified debris may remain stuck in the gutter, preventing proper cleaning and inspection of downpipes.
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Tools and Equipment: DIY gutter cleaning requires specific tools and equipment, such as extension ladders, telescopic cleaning tools, bucket and gloves, debris bags, and potentially a trailer or ute tray for debris disposal. Expensive, heavy extension ladders and specialized attachments, like telescopic blowers or wet-dry vacuums, may be necessary to reach higher areas. These tools may not be readily available to most homeowners.
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Ladder Safety: Proper ladder safety is crucial when cleaning gutters from a ladder. Ensuring the ladder is securely attached to the roof and won't fall due to wind or movement is essential. Cleaning from a ladder can also increase the risk of losing balance and falling.
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Benefits of Professional Gutter Cleaning: Hiring a safety-certified and experienced gutter cleaner offers several advantages. Professionals have the expertise to set up equipment safely, utilize harnesses for roof access, efficiently clean the roof using specialized tools, wash out gutters and downpipes, and provide thorough cleanup. They can also provide detailed records, including photos and documentation, which may be useful for home insurance purposes.
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Skills and Knowledge: Gutter cleaning requires skills and knowledge, including working at heights, maintaining balance on the roof, identifying blockages or repairs needed, and assessing the overall condition of the gutters. Professionals are trained to handle these aspects effectively.
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When to Consider Professional Help: It is advisable to hire a professional gutter cleaning service in situations where the house has gutter guard that needs uninstalling and reinstalling, there is excessive debris on the roof, or the house is over one storey high. Professionals can also inspect gutters for potential repairs or replacements.
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Safety Measures: When hiring a gutter cleaning service, ensure they have appropriate safety measures in place to comply with safety regulations, such as those set by SafeWork Queensland.
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Gutter Guard Considerations: Gutter guard installations can help prolong the time between gutter cleans, but they may also make it more challenging for homeowners to clean the gutters themselves.
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General Tips: To ensure safety, it is recommended to avoid cleaning gutters from the roof, especially if the house is over one storey high. Trim trees to minimize debris accumulation. Depending on your confidence on a ladder, consider cleaning gutters from a ladder or off the ground. Always attach the ladder securely to the roof. Don't hesitate to seek professional help when needed to prevent gutter failure.
Can you clean gutters off the ground?
Yes, if a homeowner insists on DIY cleaning their gutters, they could attempt to clean them from the ground. This eliminates the risks associated with falling from heights or working on ladders. Ladder-related incidents account for a significant number of injuries each year, with thousands of people requiring hospitalization due to falls from ladders. Similarly, falls from roofs are a common cause of accidents, often resulting in severe injuries or even fatalities. However, it's important to consider the following factors before attempting to clean gutters from the ground, as it may not be the most efficient method and is typically suitable only for single-storey homes.
However, there are other factors to keep in mind before attempting to clean gutters from the ground:
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Efficiency: Cleaning gutters from the ground may not be as effective as other methods. Debris and soil in the gutters can become solidified, making it difficult to dislodge and remove with ground-level cleaning methods. It may also be challenging to check and clear downpipes effectively. Additionally, cleaning from the ground may leave debris on the roof, which can quickly refill the gutters.
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Tools and Equipment: To clean gutters from the ground, specific tools and equipment are required. This includes a wet/dry vacuum or a leaf blower with a telescopic extension piece long enough to reach the gutters at the correct angle. Other tools such as a rake, gloves, and a means of debris disposal (e.g., trailer or ute) may also be necessary.
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Limitations: Cleaning gutters from the ground is generally suitable for single-storey homes. Telescopic equipment is typically not long enough to reach gutters on multi-storey properties. Furthermore, ground-level cleaning may not effectively remove debris from gutters with plant growth or compacted soil. It may also be challenging to access debris tucked at the back of the guttering or near the roof lining.
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Safety Considerations: While ground-level cleaning eliminates certain risks, it's still essential to prioritize safety. Ensure that your ladder is securely attached to the roof and won't fall due to wind or movement. Take precautions to maintain balance while working on the ladder. If you're not confident or experienced with working at heights, it's recommended to seek professional help.
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Efficiency of Professional Cleaning: Hiring a professional gutter cleaner offers several advantages. They have the experience, expertise, and proper equipment to efficiently and thoroughly clean gutters, including accessing hard-to-reach areas. Professional cleaners can also identify any potential issues, perform repairs if needed, and provide documentation for insurance purposes.
Ultimately, while it is possible to clean gutters from the ground as a homeowner, it's important to consider the limitations and potential inefficiencies of this method. For optimal results and to ensure the safety and proper maintenance of your gutters, it's often recommended to engage professional gutter cleaning services.
Is gutter cleaning dangerous?
Yes, gutter cleaning can be dangerous, especially when performed without proper precautions or experience. Here are some factors that contribute to the potential risks involved:
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Working at Heights: Gutter cleaning often requires accessing rooftops or using ladders to reach gutters. Working at heights increases the risk of falls, which can result in serious injuries or even fatalities.
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Unstable Ladders: Improper ladder placement or unstable ladders can lead to accidents. Falling from a ladder can cause significant injuries, including broken bones, head trauma, and back injuries.
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Slippery Surfaces: Gutters can accumulate moss, algae, or debris, making the surfaces slippery. Climbing on slippery surfaces without proper safety measures can increase the risk of falls.
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Electrical Hazards: Gutters may contain electrical wiring or connections. Accidental contact with live wires while cleaning gutters can lead to electric shocks or electrocution.
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Physical Strain: Gutter cleaning often involves physically demanding tasks, such as lifting and carrying equipment, reaching overhead, and maintaining balance on ladders or rooftops. Improper lifting techniques or overexertion can result in muscle strains, sprains, or back injuries.
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Hidden Dangers: Gutter debris can contain sharp objects, insects, or nesting animals. Accidental contact with these hazards can lead to cuts, bites, or stings.
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Who can clean my gutters?
When it comes to maintaining the cleanliness and functionality of your gutters, you may wonder who is best suited for the job. Is it worth hiring a professional gutter cleaner or would a handyman suffice? Allow us to address this question for you.
Opting for a professional gutter cleaner entails numerous advantages. With their years of experience and expertise, they possess invaluable knowledge on how to ensure the watertightness of your roof and gutters. This is particularly significant when it comes to home ownership. Their expertise enables them to identify issues such as cracks in tiles or rust on metal roofs, providing insights into necessary repairs. They can also assess the smooth flow of water to the downpipes, determine the adequacy of downpipe size and connections, and evaluate if an adequate number of downpipes are installed. Additionally, professionals can offer recommendations, such as the installation of gutter guards in areas prone to high levels of debris accumulation.
When you engage the services of a professional gutter cleaner like our team at Just Gutters Sunshine Coast, you can rest assured that they possess the necessary certifications and equipment to perform the job safely. Their full heights certification ensures they have undergone proper training and have access to temporary anchor point equipment and harnesses, which are essential for working at heights. In contrast, your average handyman may lack these specialized tools and certifications.
Furthermore, insurance coverage is a critical factor to consider when hiring a gutter cleaner. Professionals typically carry public liability insurance, which protects you in the event of any accidental damage or incidents that may occur during the cleaning process. It is important to verify the extent of coverage provided by their insurance policy.
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What does a gutter cleaner do?
The main role of a gutter cleaner is to ensure that there is no debris obstructing the proper flow of rainwater from your roof into the gutters, redirecting it away from the house through a system of piping, starting with the downpipes. So, what exactly does a gutter cleaner do? Allow us to explain.
To begin, a gutter cleaner will remove any large branches, sticks, and debris from the roof. This initial step ensures that no major obstacles hinder the cleaning process. Next, depending on the level of decomposition, the cleaner will either manually remove the debris and soil or use a vacuum to effectively clear the guttering. The goal is to thoroughly eliminate all types of debris from the gutters, ensuring unobstructed water flow.
After the debris removal, the gutter cleaner will proceed to wash the gutters, paying close attention to the water flow. This step ensures that any remaining dirt or residue is cleared away, allowing for optimal gutter performance. Additionally, the cleaner will check the flow of water down the downpipes to identify any potential issues or blockages. It is worth noting that a professional gutter cleaner will perform this process in a manner that prevents any harmful substances from being flushed into your tank if you rely on tank water.
By diligently carrying out these tasks, a gutter cleaner helps maintain the functionality and efficiency of your guttering system, safeguarding your home from potential water damage. Whether you have a residential or commercial property, regular gutter cleaning is crucial in ensuring the long-term protection and integrity of your premises.
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What does a gutter cleaning include?
A gutter cleaning service from Just Gutters on the Sunshine Coast includes a comprehensive range of tasks to ensure the optimal performance of your gutter system. Our experienced and fully insured gutter cleaner will conduct a thorough inspection of your roof and guttering, carefully checking for any issues that could compromise the watertight integrity of your home. They will then proceed to remove all branches and debris from both the roof and the gutters, ensuring that there are no obstructions that could hinder the proper flow of rainwater. Additionally, our gutter cleaner will pay close attention to your downpipes and underground piping, making sure they are effectively carrying the water away. The ultimate goal is to promote smooth and efficient water flow, allowing rainwater to drain away from your property as intended. With our gutter cleaning service, you can have peace of mind knowing that your gutter system is in the hands of a skilled professional who will help maintain its functionality and prevent water damage.
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Does gutter cleaning include downpipes?
Yes, all gutter cleaning services from a reliable experienced gutter cleaner should include downpipes. It is a main component to your roof and gutter system, so its essential to know if there is any blocks in downpipe or if there is a blockage further along potentially underground from the storm water (which would require a plumber).
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What method cleans gutters the best?
From many years of experience we have found the most effective cleaning method is off the roof removing debris by hand. Vacuum systems are not reliable with all types of debris or branches/sticks. Scooping debris by hand can be more time consuming but you visibly can see that you have gotten all debris, especially from the back of the gutter and off the roof as well. We at Just Gutters Sunshine Coast do have a vacuum system and the capabilities to do it both by hand or vacuum as some complex strata's prefer the vacuum.
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How do I prepare for a gutter cleaning service?
Preparing for a gutter clean is a breeze, and we're here to guide you through it! Before our team arrives, there are just a few things you can do to ensure a smooth and efficient process. First, why not take advantage of the opportunity to skip putting any clothes on the line for the day? It'll give you a chance to relax and enjoy your time off. If you prefer, you can also choose to close any windows as an extra precaution to keep your home protected. When it comes to your vehicles, we recommend moving them about 2-3 meters away from the property perimeter. This will allow us to access and clean around your home more effectively. Lastly, it's always a good idea to make sure it's safe for our team to walk around the perimeter, especially if you have any furry friends roaming around. Don't worry about anything else - we'll take care of everything else, and for those with tenants, we'll only access the exterior areas. With these simple preparations, you'll be all set for a hassle-free gutter cleaning experience.
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Where can I buy gutter guard?
When it comes to gutter guard, we've got you covered! We take care of everything from start to finish. With our gutter guard installations, we not only supply the gutter guard but also handle the installation process for you. We want to make sure you get the best product that perfectly matches your roof and guttering, so we offer a range of colors to choose from.
Now, here's a friendly piece of advice - steer clear of those cheap gutter guard options you find at the local hardware store. Trust us, we've seen it all too often. They tend to clog up your gutters and even break down into pieces, causing more headaches than solutions.
By choosing our professional service, you can rest easy knowing that we will provide you with top-quality gutter guard that is specifically tailored to your roof and gutter shape/type. We want to ensure that your gutters stay clear of debris and keep flowing smoothly.
So, leave the hassle to us! Let our experienced team handle your gutter guard installation, and you'll enjoy clean and hassle-free gutters for years to come. Say goodbye to clogs and hello to peace of mind!
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Is gutter cleaning a tenants or landlords responsibility?
Are you wondering who is responsible for maintaining the gutters when the property is rented? According to the RTA (Residential Tenancies Authority), if a drainpipe blockage is due to fair wear and tear, such as tree roots, it is the responsibility of the property manager/owner to ensure that the drainpipes are cleared and maintained to a working standard. So, in most cases, it is clear-cut that the owner or real estate is responsible for gutter maintenance. However, there is a clause that states if the gutters are found to be blocked due to something the tenant has done, like putting a ball or toy in the downpipe or guttering, then it becomes the tenant's responsibility to have the gutters cleaned and rectify the issue.
As a tenant, there are also proactive steps you can take. If you notice excessive water gushing off the roof, leaks from the guttering, or plants growing out of the gutters, it's important to report these issues to the real estate or owner. They may not always be aware of these problems, especially during rainfall. By promptly reporting these issues, you can ensure that necessary actions are taken to address them in a timely manner.
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Is gutter cleaning tax deductible?
When it comes to determining whether gutter cleaning or any gutter/roof repairs are tax deductible, it is recommended to consult with your accountant for personalized advice. However, in the case of rental properties, the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) provides valuable information. According to the ATO, certain rental expenses, including cleaning, repairs, and maintenance, can be immediately claimed as deductions. Therefore, if you are required to perform extensive gutter replacements or repairs, it is worth considering the potential tax benefits. For specific guidance tailored to your situation, it is best to seek professional advice from your accountant.