10 Gutter Company Scams to Avoid

When protecting your property, gutters are an essential line of defense against water damage. But not all gutter contractors have your best interests at heart. Here are the top 10 gutter scams that Bay Area homeowners, HOAs, and businesses should be wary of:

Unlicensed Contractors

Some gutter companies may claim to be licensed but aren’t. Always verify the contractor’s license to ensure compliance with California regulations. Unlicensed work can lead to fines and subpar quality.

No Written Estimates

A common trick is to avoid giving a written estimate. Without a detailed quote, you’re left vulnerable to inflated costs once the job is complete. Get every estimate in writing before work begins.

High-Pressure Sales Tactics

Some contractors may push you into signing immediately with scare tactics, like claiming your roof or home is at imminent risk. Take your time and compare options before committing.

Phantom Repairs

This scam involves claiming there are unseen issues with your gutters, such as internal blockages or hidden rot. Demand evidence through photos or video before agreeing to any extra repairs.

Upfront Payment Scams

Contractors who ask for full payment upfront may be planning to skip out before the work is finished—or may not do the work at all. Never pay more than a reasonable deposit until you see progress.

Inflated Material Costs

Some companies will overcharge for materials or claim that your gutters need expensive “special order” parts. Make sure you know what materials are being used and get a second opinion if the cost seems excessive. The biggest example is charging $25-$50 per linear foot for gutter screens for "plastic gutter screens." Ask the gutter company the pricing for different materials and get multiple estimates for each material type so you can make the decision on the products you are comfortable going forward with.

Fake Discounts

Beware of contractors who offer steep “discounts” but only if you sign up immediately. These “discounts” often come with hidden fees or low-quality materials, which can cost more in the long run.

Bait and Switch

The bait-and-switch scam involves advertising premium materials or services and then using lower-quality products. Always verify that the materials used match the description in your agreement.

Roofing Upsell

Undeclared Roofing Problems Some gutter companies may not declare existing roofing issues beforehand and later use their roofing license to negotiate a new roof along with new gutters. This can lead to significantly higher costs than anticipated. Always have an independent inspection before agreeing to any roof and gutter package deals.

Storm Chasers

After heavy storms, “storm chasers” often show up offering quick gutter repairs. They frequently disappear once payment is received, leaving work unfinished. Always choose a local, reputable contractor with solid references.

How to Protect Yourself

Do your homework before hiring any gutter company. Check online reviews, ask for references, and verify licenses. A trustworthy contractor will provide written estimates, reasonable payment terms, and be transparent about the materials and services they offer. Staying informed can make all the difference when choosing a gutter contractor. Contact Global Gutter Systems for a free phone estimate on your gutter needs today.