Service
Gutter clearing in the Cotswolds
Short answer
Check and clear gutters and downpipes each year, after the leaves fall. A blocked gutter spills water down the wall, and old stone walls then get damp. HSE says use a ladder only for short, low-risk jobs. Many firms clear gutters with a vacuum pole from the ground. This page lists local firms.
Firms found on a trade register first, then A to Z.
| Firm | Based in | Does | Checks | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Abingdon Property MaintenanceLtd company 03572882 | Steventon OX13 Covers Witney |
Odd jobs, Flat-pack assembly, Shelves and fixings, Small repairs, +7 | Trading, no register found | 07768 323678Website |
| My Village Handyman Stroud | Minchinhampton Covers Stroud, Nailsworth |
Odd jobs, Flat-pack assembly, Shelves and fixings, Small repairs, +7 | Trading, no register found | 07904 058866Website |
| Oxfordshire HandymanLtd company 17100147 | Carterton OX18 Covers Witney |
Flat-pack assembly, Shelves and fixings, Doors and windows, Small repairs, +4 | Trading, no register found | 07401 358649Website |
| The Private Estate Handyman | Evesham Covers Chipping Norton, Moreton-in-Marsh, Bourton-on-the-Water +1 |
Small repairs, Doors and windows, Gutter clearing, Painting and decorating, +4 | Trading, no register found | Website |
No firms match. Clear a filter to see more.
Why gutters matter in old houses
A blocked gutter sends rain down the face of the wall. Old Cotswold stone walls take in some moisture and let it out again. Too much water can cause damp inside.
Cotswold District Council tells owners of old buildings to check gutters, fascias and roof valleys. It says damp can make a building up to three times less energy efficient.
Ladder safety
HSE says a ladder is a sensible choice only for low-risk, short jobs. If a job keeps someone up a leaning ladder for more than 30 minutes at a time, HSE says to use other equipment. HSE also gives these rules for a leaning ladder.
- Use the 1-in-4 rule: one unit out for every four units up, an angle of 75°.
- Keep three points of contact when climbing.
- Do not overreach. Keep your belt buckle inside the ladder’s stiles.
- Carry only light tools and materials.
- Check the ladder for faults before each use.
What a gutter clear includes
A full gutter clear removes leaves, moss and silt from every gutter. It also checks that each downpipe runs free. Some firms use a gutter vacuum on a long pole, so nobody climbs a ladder.
Ask for photos before and after, because you cannot see into most gutters from the ground. Ask the firm to report any leaking joints or broken brackets.
Repairs and replacement
New gutters or downpipes do not need Building Regulations approval. GOV.UK lists them as exempt work.
On a listed building, a change from cast iron to plastic can need listed building consent. Ask the council first. A roofing firm may be the right choice for big gutter or roofline repairs.
Questions
How often should I clear my gutters?
At least once a year, in late autumn after the leaves fall. Houses near trees may need a second clear in spring. Check after big storms.
Is it safe to clear gutters from a ladder?
For a short, low-risk job, a ladder can be suitable if you use it safely. HSE says to use other equipment for work over 30 minutes at a time.
Do I need permission to replace my gutters?
Not under the Building Regulations; gutters and downpipes are exempt. On a listed building, a change of material can need listed building consent.