Gutter cleaning is a seasonal maintenance task that protects a home's foundation, prevents erosion, and reduces the risk of flooding the basement or substructure. When it's time to clean the gutters of a rental property, though, who's responsible?
Below, Window Genie offers insight into rental property gutter cleaning, so you know who is responsible for completing the work—tenant or property owner—and how to find out for sure.
Cleaning Gutters: Tenant or Landlord?
Leasing agreements usually clarify which party is responsible for cleaning the gutters. If you're unsure, check the lease for terms mentioning gutters, roof, "exterior maintenance," or "general care." If gutters aren't specifically mentioned in your lease, contact your landlord for clarification.
However, in most cases, renters are not responsible for cleaning the gutters.
For renters and property managers alike, until gutters stop working, it's easy to forget they exist. That problem can be compounded when renters aren't sure whether they're responsible for cleaning gutters in the first place. That's why it's important to include the mention of gutter cleaning and maintenance in all lease agreements, along with designating responsibility for other household tasks, repairs, and upkeep like lawn care, HVAC, and plumbing.
Do Landlords Need to Clean Gutters?
Many states require property owners to make repairs that ensure a safe home, including structural repairs that, if left undone, might make the property unsafe. Sagging, clogged, or broken gutter systems increase the risk of flooding and damage to the foundation, both of which could make the home uninhabitable.
Further, property owners risk liability if tenants attempt to clean the gutters themselves. Working on roofs or ladders is dangerous work. Investing in a professional gutter cleaning service for your rental property is safer for everyone involved.
Why Gutters Are Important
Cleaning gutters is a good investment for property owners, too. Clean gutters offer protection from heavy rains and provide several benefits:
- Prevent erosion
- Protect your foundation from moisture
- Protect landscaping
- Reduce the risk of basement flooding
- Prevent paint damage caused by moisture
If your property has already experienced water damage from flooding, get professional assistance fast. Contact Rainbow International, a Neighborly company, for water damage remediation services.
Protect Your Investment with Seasonal Gutter Cleaning at Your Rental Property
Tenants and property owners will benefit from professional twice-annual gutter cleaning services. Tenants enjoy a safer and drier home, and landlords reduce their liability and protect their investment.
We also provide window cleaning, tinting, and other services to help keep every rental property beautiful, comfortable, and marketable. Call or request an estimate today.
