Gutter cleaning is essential to prevent water damage to your home, but how much should you expect to pay for it?
In New Zealand, the cost of gutter cleaning typically depends on factors like property size, the height of your roof, and the condition of your gutters.
Based on our experience as an exterior cleaning service, we’ll break down the pricing structure, explain what affects the cost, and show you how bundling services can save you money.
Gutter Cleaning Cost in New Zealand (Pricing Chart)
The cost of gutter cleaning in New Zealand depends primarily on your property’s size. The larger your home, the more it costs to clean the gutters. Here’s a typical breakdown of prices based on the size of the property:
| Property Size (sqm) | Gutter Cleaning Cost |
|---|---|
| 50–80 sqm | $159 |
| 81–120 sqm | $169 |
| 121–180 sqm | $189 |
| 181–220 sqm | $199 |
| 221–290 sqm | $209 |
| 291–350 sqm | $220 |
| 351–450 sqm | $249 |
| 451–550 sqm | $279 |
| 550+ sqm | $299+ (based on size and complexity) |
The price is calculated by your home’s square footage. Larger properties require more work and time, which is reflected in the cost. Keep in mind that other factors may influence the final price, which we’ll discuss further below.
What Affects the Final Gutter Cleaning Cost?
Several factors can impact the cost of gutter cleaning.
Here’s what you need to consider:
1. Property Size
The size of your property is the most significant factor in determining the cost. Larger properties with more gutter length require more time, tools, and labor to clean, driving up the cost.
2. House Type and Height
- Double-storey homes: If your property has multiple levels, it will require additional safety measures and equipment like taller ladders, which can increase the cost.
- Difficult-to-reach areas: If your roofline is complex or steep, it adds extra labor and time to clean the gutters safely, increasing the overall cost.
3. Gutter Condition
- Full or blocked gutters: If your gutters are filled with debris, such as leaves or moss, it will take more time to remove it all, which can increase the cost.
- Gutters in need of repair: Damaged gutters or those that require extra attention, like unclogging downspouts, may add additional costs.
4. Accessibility
- If the property is difficult to access due to a steep roof, trees blocking access, or other obstructions, the cleaning process will take longer and be more complicated. This can result in higher costs due to additional labor and specialized equipment.
5. Debris Removal
If the debris collected during the cleaning needs to be bagged and removed from your property, this could add to the cost. Some services charge an extra fee for debris disposal.
What’s Included in Gutter Cleaning?
Gutter cleaning involves more than just clearing debris from the gutters. Here’s what you can expect to be included in a professional gutter cleaning service:
1. Removal of Debris from Gutters
The primary task is removing all debris, such as leaves, twigs, dirt, and moss, from inside the gutters. This is crucial for ensuring proper water flow and preventing blockages.
2. Gutter Flushing
After debris is removed, the gutters are often flushed with water to clear out any remaining dirt and ensure the downspouts are free of obstructions. This helps improve water flow and prevent future clogging.
3. Downspout Cleaning
Professionals will also check the downspouts to ensure they are not blocked. If necessary, they will clear any debris that could prevent water from flowing freely through the downspouts.
4. Site Cleanup
Once the cleaning is complete, the team will clean up any debris left around the property. This includes bagging and disposing of any waste collected from the gutters, leaving your property tidy and clean.
5. Inspection and Reporting (Optional)
Some gutter cleaning services will inspect the gutters for damage or signs of wear and report any issues that may need attention. This can help you avoid expensive repairs in the future.
Gutter Cleaning in Package Deals
Gutter cleaning is often included in comprehensive maintenance packages, which can provide better value for homeowners. Here’s how package deals typically work:
1. House Wash + Roof Treatment + Gutter Clean
- Starting from $590 + GST (up to 150 sqm)
- This package combines house washing, roof treatment, and gutter cleaning, giving your property a full exterior refresh.
- Additional cost: For homes larger than 150 sqm, expect an additional $1.50 per extra sqm.
2. Why Bundle Services?
- Better Value: Bundling multiple services like house washing, roof treatment, and gutter cleaning allows you to take advantage of shared labour and equipment, reducing the overall cost per service.
- Convenience: Instead of scheduling multiple visits for different services, you can get everything done in one go, saving time and hassle.
- Comprehensive Care: A full-service package ensures that all aspects of your exterior are cleaned and maintained, from gutters to the roof, helping to prevent damage and extend the lifespan of your home’s surfaces.
3. Ideal for Property Maintenance
Package deals are perfect for homeowners looking to maintain their property’s value and curb appeal. By investing in regular, bundled services, you can keep your home in excellent condition, avoid costly repairs, and maintain a clean and safe environment.
How Often Should You Have Your Gutters Cleaned?
Regular gutter cleaning is essential to prevent water damage, foundation issues, and the buildup of debris. Here’s how often you should clean your gutters based on different factors:
1. Standard Maintenance: Once a Year
For most homes, cleaning the gutters once a year is sufficient. This ensures that leaves, dirt, and other debris don’t accumulate and block the gutters, especially after autumn when trees shed leaves.
2. After Autumn or Stormy Weather
If your property has a lot of trees, it’s a good idea to clean the gutters after the autumn leaf fall or after storms. Storms often carry debris that can block gutters and downspouts, so cleaning after bad weather can prevent buildup that might cause overflow and water damage.
3. Properties with Trees or Overhanging Vegetation: Twice a Year
If your property is surrounded by trees or has significant foliage near the roofline, you should clean your gutters twice a year—once in early spring and once in autumn. This helps remove fallen leaves and twigs before they cause issues.
4. If You Notice Blockages or Overflow
If you notice water spilling over your gutters, it’s a clear sign that cleaning is overdue. Regular checks can help spot blockages early and prevent costly repairs. Gutters should always be clear to allow water to flow freely and prevent overflow.
5. Special Conditions: Every 3-6 Months
For homes with extensive moss buildup or clogged gutters after every storm, cleaning might be necessary more frequently—every 3 to 6 months.
Additionally, if your home is near coastal areas where salt and debris can build up more quickly, cleaning more often may be needed.
How to Choose the Right Gutter Cleaning Service
When selecting a gutter cleaning service, it’s important to ensure that you’re getting professional, reliable, and safe service. Here’s what to look for when choosing a provider:
1. Experience and Reputation
Look for a company with proven experience in gutter cleaning. Sun SoftWash, for example, has years of expertise in cleaning gutters across New Zealand and a solid reputation for reliable, thorough service. Check customer reviews and ratings to get an idea of their service quality.
2. Insurance and Safety Measures
Gutter cleaning involves working at heights, so safety is crucial. Make sure the service provider is fully insured and follows proper safety protocols. This protects you and your property in case of an accident. Sun SoftWash is fully insured and ensures safety measures are in place for every job.
3. Transparent Pricing
A reputable service provider should offer clear, upfront pricing with no hidden fees. Ask for a detailed quote before the job begins, and ensure they explain any potential additional costs. At Sun SoftWash, we provide transparent pricing, so there are no surprises when the job is done.
4. Equipment and Tools
A professional service should have the right equipment to handle the job efficiently. This includes ladders, safety gear, and tools for cleaning gutters thoroughly. Avoid companies that use inadequate or unsafe tools that could cause damage to your home or gutters.
5. Package Options
Many companies, including Sun SoftWash, offer bundled services like house washing, roof treatment, and gutter cleaning, which can provide greater value for your money. Bundling services allows you to maintain your property efficiently and at a lower overall cost.
6. Service Area
Make sure the company serves your area. Sun SoftWash provides services across Auckland, Hamilton, and Tauranga, ensuring local expertise and quick response times.
Conclusion
Gutter cleaning is a vital part of home maintenance, preventing water damage and ensuring your property remains in top condition. Whether you choose to tackle it yourself or hire a professional, regular gutter cleaning will save you from expensive repairs down the line.
For a thorough, safe, and reliable service, Sun SoftWash is here to help. We offer transparent pricing, professional expertise, and tailored solutions to fit your needs. Don’t wait for the gutters to clog up—contact us today for a free quote and keep your home in great shape.
