Is professional gutter cleaning worth it in London?

Living in the UK, we probably spend more time than the average homeowner thinking about property maintenance — and London is no exception. With its wide variety of architecture and buildings dating as far back as the 11th century, many London homes suffer from damp issues, from the Georgian townhouses of Kensington to the Edwardian properties in suburban Ealing.

One of the biggest causes of damp is overflowing gutters and poor drainage. Leaves, twigs, moss, airborne debris, and even animal droppings all contribute to blocked gutters, which can cause excess moisture to build up on the exterior of your home — eventually seeping through the brickwork.

Gutter cleaning isn’t just for homeowners either. Many private landlords expect tenants to take responsibility for exterior upkeep, including routine maintenance such as gardening, window cleaning, and, yes, gutter cleaning. As someone who has rented for the majority of their life I can testify to that fact – every landlord I’ve had has included a clause in their contract about external maintenance, so it seems to be the rule rather than the exception. 

How Often Should You Clean Your Gutters?

Most professionals recommend cleaning your gutters at least twice a year — typically in the spring and autumn. However, if you live near trees or have noticed increased rainfall, you might want to check and clean them more frequently to avoid unexpected issues.

What Happens If You Don’t Clean Your Gutters?

Clogged gutters don’t just lead to damp — they can cause a whole list of headaches, including water damage to your roof, internal leaks, mould growth, and even foundation issues. In some cases, the added weight of debris and water can cause your gutters to sag or pull away from the house entirely. You might also start attracting unwelcome guests like birds or rodents nesting in the mess.

Signs Your Gutters Need Cleaning

Not sure if it’s time? Look out for:

• Water spilling over the sides during rain
• Plants or moss visibly growing from your gutters
• Sagging or misaligned sections of guttering
• Damp spots or mould on interior walls or ceilings
• More pests than usual hanging around your roofline

Why London Homes Are Especially Vulnerable

London’s blend of period properties and newer builds means gutter systems can be anything from ornate cast iron to modern uPVC — and older ones often don’t handle modern weather well. Combined with air pollution, tree cover in leafy boroughs, and plenty of rainfall, it’s easy to see why blocked gutters are such a common problem in the capital.

So, Is It Worth Hiring a Professional?

For bungalows and smaller houses with easy access, you might manage with help from a friendly neighbour or an able-bodied relative to scoop out the muck. However, with around 46% of London homes standing over two storeys, we wouldn’t recommend the ladder-and-bucket approach.

Professional gutter cleaners have the right equipment and expertise to tackle hard-to-reach areas — such as gutters behind conservatories or over gabled windows. At Ben’s Gutters, for example, we use a telescopic vacuum system to safely clean gutters on properties taller than two storeys, making it by far the safest and most effective method.

DIY vs. Professional: Cost Comparison

Hiring a professional might seem like an added expense, but it’s often cheaper in the long run than dealing with water damage or mould. In London, professional gutter cleaning typically ranges from £60 to £550 depending on your property’s size and layout. Compare that with the cost of treating rising damp or fixing internal leaks — which can easily run into the thousands — and it’s clear why regular maintenance is a smart investment.

Here at Ben’s Gutters we offer a variety of guttering services. We can come and do a routine clearance for you, or we can even wash down the fascias, soffits and bargeboards while we’re there (which looks particularly good on white uPVC gutters!). If your gutters have come unclipped we can put them back into place and seal a joint if it’s come apart. We also wash conservatories and have an entire team dedicated to roof cleaning, so if you’re not sure who to call you can always get a free quote from us. 

You can call us seven days a week on 020 8194 3011 for a completely free and no-obligation quote.