7 signs your gutters are blocked

The clearest sign of a blocked gutter is water overflowing or pouring over the edge during rain, instead of running to the downpipe. Other warning signs include damp patches on external walls, plants growing in the gutter, sagging gutters pulling away from the roof, and pooling water around the base of the house. Spotting these early is important, because the damage blocked gutters cause is far costlier than a routine clean.

The 7 warning signs

1. Overflowing water spilling over the gutter edge in rain.
2. Damp or staining on external walls below the gutter line.
3. Plants or grass growing out of the gutter.
4. Sagging gutters pulling away from the fascia under the weight of debris.
5. Pooling water around the foundations after rain.
6. Peeling paint or rust on the gutters and fascia.
7. Pests or birds nesting in the build-up of leaves.

Why blocked gutters matter

Gutters carry rainwater safely away from your home. When they block, water spills down the walls, soaks into brickwork and finds its way inside, leading to damp, rotten fascias and soffits, and even foundation problems over time. What starts as a few leaves can become a major repair bill.

What to do if you spot the signs

Do not wait for winter. Clearing the blockage promptly stops the water damage before it starts. For most homes this is a quick, ground-based job using a reach-and-vacuum system, no ladders needed. For how regularly to keep on top of it, see our guide on how often gutters should be cleaned.

Get them cleared safely

Our gutter cleaning service clears leaves, moss and debris from the ground, unblocks downpipes and checks the water is flowing freely, across Derby and the surrounding towns. If you have spotted any of the signs above, it is worth booking a clear-out before the next heavy rain.