For many London homeowners, gutter cleaning is one of those maintenance tasks that often gets overlooked until there’s a problem. Blocked gutters can quickly lead to water damage, structural issues, and even pest infestations. The question we’re often asked is: when is the best time of year to clean gutters in London?

The truth is, there isn’t just one perfect time of year—it depends on your home, the surrounding environment, and London’s unpredictable weather. However, there are certain seasons that are particularly important when it comes to keeping your gutters in good condition. At Ben’s Gutters, we’ve been looking after London homes for years, and in this blog, we’ll break down the seasonal approach to gutter cleaning, explain why timing matters, and show you how we can help protect your property all year round.

Why Gutter Cleaning Matters in London

London’s mix of historic buildings, tree-lined streets, and ever-changing weather make gutters particularly vulnerable to blockages. Homes in areas like Hampstead, Highgate, Dulwich, or Greenwich often sit under large trees, meaning leaves and moss can clog gutters quickly. Meanwhile, older Victorian and Edwardian properties often have more intricate guttering systems that require regular upkeep.

If gutters aren’t cleaned regularly, rainwater has nowhere to go. Instead of flowing safely into the downpipes and drains, it overflows and causes problems such as:

• Damp and mould inside your home.
• Damage to brickwork from constant water exposure.
• Rotting fascias and soffits.
• Flooding in basements and gardens.
• Pest infestations, as birds and rodents nest in debris-filled gutters.

By timing your gutter cleaning correctly, you can prevent these issues before they even begin.

How Often Should Gutters Be Cleaned in London?

For most London homes, we recommend at least once a year, ideally after autumn. However, if your property is near trees or you’ve had issues with damp in the past, twice a year is much safer.

Signs your gutters need attention include:

• Overflowing water when it rains.
• Plants or moss growing out of your gutters.
• Damp patches on walls or ceilings.
• Sagging or broken guttering.

If you spot any of these issues, don’t wait for the next season—book a clean right away.

The Best Seasons to Clean Gutters in London

🌸 Spring: Clearing Out Winter Debris

Spring is another great time for gutter cleaning. After a long winter, gutters may be clogged with moss, dirt, and debris washed down by heavy rain. For many London homes, spring is also when plants and trees begin releasing seeds, which can quickly settle in gutters and start growing.

Cleaning gutters in spring helps protect your home against summer storms and ensures everything is working properly after the harsher winter months. It’s also a good opportunity to check for any damage caused by frost or ice over the winter.

☀️ Summer: Maintenance and Prevention

Summer may not be the busiest season for gutter cleaning, but it’s the perfect time for prevention. The drier weather makes it easier for us to inspect your guttering and complete any minor repairs. For London homes surrounded by trees, summer is also a good mid-year check, especially if moss is a recurring problem.

At Ben’s Gutters, we recommend that many homeowners schedule at least two cleans per year—once in late autumn, and once in spring or summer. This ensures that your gutters are always in good condition, whatever the season.

🍃 Autumn: The Most Important Season

Autumn is, without a doubt, the most crucial time for gutter cleaning in London. As the leaves fall, they accumulate in gutters and downpipes, mixing with moss and rain to create heavy blockages.

If you only clean your gutters once a year, autumn should be your choice. Clearing out the leaves ensures that your gutters are ready for the heavier winter rainfall.

At Ben’s Gutters, we use the SkyVac system, which allows us to clear gutters quickly and safely from the ground—even in hard-to-reach areas. By scheduling your clean after the bulk of the leaves have fallen (usually late October through November), you’ll keep your home protected through the wettest months.

❄️ Winter: Preventing Ice and Overflow

While you don’t need to schedule routine cleans in winter unless you have a problem, it’s important to know that blocked gutters are at their most dangerous during this season. Water that can’t drain away may freeze in the gutters, adding weight and risking cracks, sagging, or even collapse.

In London, where temperatures regularly drop below freezing, this is a real risk. If you notice overflowing gutters or icicles forming, it’s a sign they need urgent attention. Our team can respond quickly, using equipment that works safely even in winter conditions.

Professional vs DIY Gutter Cleaning

Some homeowners in London attempt DIY gutter cleaning, but it’s not always the best option. Gutter systems can be tricky to access safely, especially on tall or terraced houses. There’s also the risk of missing hidden blockages in downpipes.

At Ben’s Gutters our cleaners are fully trained and will arrive with the correct tools for the job. Ladders and poles for smaller properties, and telescopic vacuum systems and high-reach poles for 3+ storey work, which allow us to clear gutters thoroughly without the need for scaffolding. We clean conservatory roofs, soffits and fascias as well as gutters – just ask us about our additional services when you call. 

By choosing professional cleaning, you save yourself time, reduce risk, and ensure the job is done properly the first time.

Why Choose Us to Clean Your Gutters in London?

We understand that London homeowners want reliability, efficiency, and value. Here’s why so many choose us:

• Local expertise: We know the unique challenges of London homes, from tree-lined streets to historic properties.
• Professional equipment: The correct tools for the job ensure safe, thorough cleaning every time.
• No mess: We remove all debris and leave your property tidy.
• Peace of mind: Regular gutter cleaning helps protect your home from costly damage.
• Flexible bookings: We work around your schedule, whether you need a one-off clean or regular maintenance.

When you choose Ben’s Gutters, you’re not just getting clean gutters—you’re investing in the long-term health of your home.

Final Thoughts: Timing is Everything

So, when is the best time of year to clean gutters in London? The answer depends on your home and surroundings, but for most households:

Autumn is essential.

Spring or summer is highly recommended as a second clean.

Winter requires urgent attention if you spot problems.

By timing your cleans around the seasons, you’ll prevent blockages, protect your property, and save money on costly repairs.

At Ben’s Gutters, we take the stress out of gutter maintenance for London homeowners. Whether you need a one-off clean or regular service, we’re here to keep your home safe, dry, and protected all year round.

“Great job and efficient service with a smile.

Have used Ben’s Gutters for a few years and always had a good, efficient service. This time Jake was on time, very pleasant and did a really good job.” ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

– M W, Trustpilot Review

“Pleasant, efficient and friendly from start to finish.” ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

– NC D, Trustpilot Review