How to Deal with Gutter Problems: 3 Easy Tips – Part 1: Hiring a Trusted Contractor for the Job

You probably already know how complex some home improvement projects can be. If you want to make the most of your investment and ensure a safe and worry-free experience, hire a reliable contractor. This is especially true when dealing with your gutter problems. Gutter fixes may seem easy, but the reality is that it requires difficult and precise work.

So why choose a pro to handle the job instead of taking the DIY route?

For one thing, pros have the necessary tools and equipment, which means you don’t have to make frequent trips to the local hardware store for the essentials you’ll need. For an untrained homeowner, this means additional costs on top of the tedious work. However, because a trusted contractor will have all the right tools, equipment and materials — and know how to use them safely and efficiently — hiring a pro ensures you of quick, quality work while saving a bit of money, as well.

What qualities should you look for in your prospective contractor?

It won’t do to just hire any gutter contractor whose name you come across online or in the yellow pages. If you want to get a good idea about what your experience will be like with a prospective contractor, it’s best that you ask for referrals from friends and neighbors. Following that, do a bit of research and make sure your choice has the following qualities:

• Licensed. Ask for the necessary business licenses that make them eligible to perform home improvement work in your area. A licensed contractor means legitimate workmanship and familiarity with local codes and regulations–essentials necessary for a successful gutter project.
• Established. Make sure your prospective contractor has a physical business address, with working phone, email and an updated  website. Be wary of contractors who don’t have an online footprint. You can look your contractor up on your local Better Business Bureau’s page or on prominent trade sites like Angie’s List to check for scores and reviews.
• Experienced. You’ll want a pro who can deliver exceptional work on your system — whether it’s for gutter repair or installation — without going over  budget or off schedule. An experienced contractor conscientiously adheres to safety requirements during the process, while ensuring zero potential for callbacks and additional costs.
• Insured. Hire a contractor with applicable insurance, including liability coverage and workers’ compensation. This way, you and your investment have are protected should anything go wrong during the project.

Stay tuned for our next post, where we’ll discuss how a comprehensive inspection makes dealing with gutter problems easier.