Home Service Professionals

Gutter and Downspout Installer

Services, costs and hiring best practices - proven tips for getting great Gutter And Downspout Installation and Repair Service

May 2012

When hiring and working with a Gutter and Downspout Installer, every homeowner needs to know: What services does a Gutter and Downspout Installer commonly provide? What is the best way to find good prospects? What should I look for when I interview the Gutter and Downspout Installer? And most importantly, how do I make sure that the Gutter And Downspout Installation and Repair Service is done right?

Use the following information to understand your options, make good decisions and get quality work at a fair price.

Gutter and Downspout Installer - FAQ

How do I avoid the scams and get good Gutter And Downspout Installation and Repair Service at a fair price?	First, decide on ALL product / service options. Compile a list of work and quality requirements (see the next section). Have at least 2 qualified pros complete detailed bids on the work. Use a written contract that ties payment to verifyable results. Download the Gutter and Downspout Installer Hiring Guide for step-by-step details.
What should I expect to pay for Gutter And Downspout Installation and Repair Service?	Most Gutter And Downspout Installation and Repair Service work is quoted at a fixed price, for specific service(s) or deliverables. The underlying hourly rate for a Gutter and Downspout Installer ranges from $27 to $41. Usually, a minimum fee will be charged, which represents 1.5 - 2 hours of effort. In some cases, the quoted job price may be negotiable, particularly if other work is performed by the Gutter and Downspout Installer.
Do I need to use a licensed Gutter and Downspout Installer for my job? If so - how do I verify license status?	Gutter And Downspout Installation and Repair Service is commonly performed without a professional license.
Should I use an insured Gutter and Downspout Installer for my project?	Your Gutter and Downspout Installer should carry adequate liability insurance for work related damages. Your Gutter and Downspout Installer should also have workman's compensation insurance for job related injury or health risks.
Does my Gutter and Downspout Installer need to be bonded?	A bond is generally not required for Gutter And Downspout Installation and Repair Service.

Gutter and Downspout Installer - Services

A Gutter and Downspout Installer can handle a number of jobs, activities and problems. The list below summarizes common Gutter And Downspout Installation and Repair Services. Follow the appropriate links below to learn more about cost, options and quality requirements:

Gutter and Downspout Installer - Finding and Hiring

Not every Gutter and Downspout Installer has the same ability. Experience, skills, and sense of acceptable quality vary considerable. To get the results that you expect, it is essential that you put appropriate effort behind finding a Gutter and Downspout Installer matched to the specific requirements of your job - not simply someone that puts you at ease or wins your confidence. Before starting, make sure that you completely understand the work you want the Gutter and Downspout Installer to perform and the job quality you expect. Then, begin the selection process outlined below:

Check with local building department to determine if a licensed professional and/or permit is required for your project
Collect referrals from reputable material suppliers or local building permit authority
Verify license status and license standing history with licensing board
Check Better Business Bureau for complaints
Develop a detailed description of work, timing and quality expectations (project specification)
Interview topic: how is project price determined?
Interview topic: payment, warranty and contract terms
Verify references, insurance and bond coverage for final candidates
Interview topic: how are change orders handled?

Gutter and Downspout Installer - Important Agreement / Contract Terms

A written agreement greatly improves your odds of success when working with a Gutter and Downspout Installer. Never start work until you have a complete agreement signed by your Gutter and Downspout Installer. For small jobs use a written work order. For larger projects, use a detailed contract. Never feel pressured to use the Gutter and Downspout Installer's standard contract. Make sure the following points are included in the agreement:

Job site cleanliness, worker conduct, and rules for use of on-site bathroom, phone, etc.
Detailed description of items and material to be installed and all work to be performed
Project completion, quality and payment criteria
Responsibility for material selection, purchase, delivery acceptance and storage
Detailed summary of costs, fees and payment milestones
Payment for and coordination of design approvals, permits and inspections
Change order rules, responsibilities and contract cost adjustments
Warranty on workmanship