How much does gutter cleaning cost in Australia?

Maintaining one’s home can be very demanding, as it entails a variety of chores. Sometimes, this leads to putting a few tasks like gutter cleaning on the back burner or forgetting about them altogether. Fortunately, you can hire service providers who can help tick a box or two on your to-do list.

But how much will this set you back? This guide outlines the factors that affect gutter cleaning costs and gives you an idea regarding how much the service is priced in your area.

What are some signs of dirty or clogged gutters?

A rain gutter full of fallen leaves (Source: iStock)

Some of the telltale signs that your roof’s gutters are dirty or clogged include:

• Water spilling over when it rains;

• Gutters sagging or collapsing;

• Water stagnating in the gutters;

• Pests or animals hanging around near the gutters;

• Plants, mould, or mildew growing; and

• House sidings becoming stained.

If you notice any of these signs, it might be time to schedule gutter cleaning services or even a simple drainage checkup.

What are the average costs of gutter cleaning in Australia?

The table below can give you an idea of the average cost to clean rain gutters in various parts of Australia.

*These estimates are based on recent Airtasker marketplace data and external Australian pricing benchmarks. Your final price may vary.

What factors affect the costs of gutter cleaning?

The average gutter cleaning cost depends on a range of factors, including the type of your house, the condition of your roof gutters, and any additional services that you may need.

House size and height

House size affects gutter cleaning costs because larger properties generally have longer gutter systems and require more time to clean. Property height is also important, as upper-storey gutters may require additional safety equipment, more workers, or specialised access methods.

The gutter cleaning price list below also shows how the number of storeys in your house can affect the average price for gutter cleaning.

Gutter type

A brown plastic gutter against a backdrop of foliage (Source: iStock) 

Traditional seamed or sectional gutters tend to accumulate more dirt than the seamless ones used in many modern homes. As such, bringing seamed gutters back to their original spotless state can take more time and therefore result in a pricier gutter cleaning job.

Gutter condition

A small tree sprouting from a damaged roof gutter (Source: iStock)

If your roof’s drainage is relatively new and undergoes regular maintenance, the cost of gutter cleaning will likely be minimal. However, there is more work to be done if your gutters are old, damaged, or full of hard-to-remove dirt and debris. In this case, expect gutter cleaning charges to be higher than usual.

Gutter accessibility

A man on a ladder cleaning debris from house gutters (Source: iStock)

The safety of the activity is also taken into account when computing gutter cleaning prices. Hence, do not expect cheap gutter cleaning if accessing your gutters entails greater risk than usual.

Roof pitch

Roof pitches can vary from lowly sloped to sharply steep. The latter entails greater hazards, more rigorous safety requirements, longer cleaning times, and higher service costs.

Obstacles

Cleaning gutters may cost extra if there are various objects that block or restrict access to your roof’s drainage system. These obstacles can be in the form of fences, outdoor home features, trees, and other landscaping elements.

Terrain

Uneven terrain—as opposed to level ground—can make gutter cleaning more challenging and costlier. For instance, more manpower and specialised equipment (such as scissor lifts) may be necessary to complete the procedure in a hilly area.

Additional services

A gutter positioned beneath a roof heavily covered with moss (Source: iStock)

Compared to regular gutter cleaning, an operation with additional services will cost more due to the extra skills, time, effort, and tools involved.

Downspout cleaning

This service refers to unblocking, washing, and draining downspouts or downpipes. This is done to prevent damage and ensure that water can pass through with no issue.

Downpipe cleaning may be included in a complete gutter cleaning service or charged separately, depending on the extent of the blockage and how easily the downpipes can be accessed.

Gutter whitening

Also known as gutter brightening, this service removes unsightly brown stains and other discolouration that can develop over time. Gutter whitening can easily refresh your home's appearance and give it a trim, tidy look.

Roof debris removal

Removing debris and other clutter from your roof can prevent gutter blocks that can be detrimental to your home’s structural integrity. This service is recommended after storms, whose typical aftermath involves roofs littered with leaves, branches, pine needles, and other rubbish.

Gutter flushing

Gutter flushing is basically letting an excessive amount of water flow through your roof’s drainage system. This process detects any remaining obstruction that may be difficult to discover with regular gutter cleaning.

Moss and algae removal

Removing moss and algae is important to keeping your gutters in tip-top shape. This service can significantly increase the cost of cleaning gutters, but it can be a crucial step in preventing blockage and moisture damage.

Waterproofing and protective coatings

Waterproofing and adding protective coating are extra services that can increase the cost to get gutters cleaned. However, if your gutters have gaps or cracks, these measures can stop leaks and prevent further damage that may require pricier repairs or total replacement.

Time of year

A gutter encased in ice due to freezing temperatures (Source: iStock)

How much does it cost to clean gutters based on the time of year? Recent Airtasker data shows that spring demand can outpace the availability of Taskers, while customers may encounter more competitive pricing in autumn. Weather conditions and local vegetation can still influence the best time to arrange cleaning.

What are some ways to save on gutter cleaning?

A mesh screen installed on rain guttering to prevent debris (Source: iStock)

Nowadays, in light of the rising cost of services, it is wise to find ways to save through DIY solutions and the availment of discounts. In the case of gutter cleaning, some cost-cutting measures you can take include the following:

Invest in gutter guards

Installing gutter guards involves shelling out a significant amount of money initially, but consider this move an investment since these devices prevent obstructions, keep gutters attached to the roof, and make cleaning less of a hassle.

Maintain gutters between professional cleanings

How often should gutters be cleaned to keep costs low? You can minimise the cost and frequency of hiring an expert by conducting regular checkups and cleaning your gutters at least twice a year.

But if your gutters are surrounded by overhanging branches, doing it every quarter may be necessary. You can utilise various tools—such as a garden hose, a wet/dry vacuum, or a leaf blower—during the operation.

Group service with neighbours

Take advantage of the deals available when you and your neighbours book a gutter cleaning package together. You can find these promos on gutter cleaning company websites, in emails, and on social media, among other sources.

What should you look for in a professional gutter cleaner?

In your search for the right gutter cleaning expert, be sure to find out the answer to these questions:

• How many years of industry experience do they have?

• Do they have experience dealing with a property or outdoor environment similar to yours?

• What do their former customers say about their service?

• How much do their services cost?

• Do they have the right permits, certifications, and insurance to perform gutter cleaning?

• What kind of tools and equipment do they use during a cleaning procedure?

Restore your gutters’ cleanliness with Airtasker

A man unclogging a rain gutter filled with debris (Source: iStock)

Dealing with a clogged and dirty roof drainage system? Airtasker has a roster of professional gutter cleaners who can help you with this issue. But if your gutters’ problems can’t be solved with regular cleaning, you can also find repairers and other roofing experts on the website.

After signing up on the platform, you can reach out to Taskers by posting a task that includes basic details (such as your location and budget). Once they get back to you with quotes, you can pick the best gutter cleaner for your needs.