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🧼 How Often Should You Clean Your Gutters in NYC?

How Often Should You Clean Gutters in NYC? | Landlord’s Guide

NYC landlords: Prevent costly damage with proper gutter cleaning. Learn how often to clean, signs of clogging, and whether to DIY or hire pros.

🏙️ As a Landlord in NYC, Neglecting Gutter Cleaning Can Cost You Thousands

If you own property in Brooklyn, Queens, or Manhattan, routine gutter maintenance isn't optional — it's critical.

Yet many landlords push it down the list.

But here's the truth:

Clogged gutters = water damage, foundation cracks, mold, tenant complaints, and even city fines.

This quick guide breaks down how often you need to clean your gutters in NYC and how to protect your investment with minimal effort.

🌧️ Why Gutter Cleaning Is Essential for NYC Properties

New York's weather brings:

  • Heavy seasonal rainfall

  • Autumn leaf fall

  • Flat or aging roofs

  • Winter snow + ice dams

When gutters back up, water overflows and infiltrates your roof, stucco, siding, and foundation — leading to:

✅ Leaks✅ Rot & mold✅ Ice damage✅ Flooded basements✅ Costly violations

According to NYC property data, gutter-related issues are among the top 5 preventable maintenance problems in residential buildings.

📆 How Often Should You Clean Your Gutters in NYC?

📍 Minimum: 2x Per Year

At a minimum, clean your gutters:

  • Spring (May–June): After snow melts and tree pollen/debris accumulates.

  • Fall (October–November): After leaves drop but before freezing temps arrive.

🕵️ When to Clean More Often:

Situation

Gutter Clean Frequency

Property under large trees

Every 3–4 months

Nearby construction or high dust

Quarterly

Building with flat or complex roof

After major storms

History of foundation water issues

Seasonal inspections

Pro Tip: Book fall cleanings before November 15th to prevent ice dams.

🔍 Warning Signs Your Gutters Are Clogged

Don’t wait for damage — look for:

  • Water spilling over the edge of gutters

  • Sagging gutters or separated joints

  • Staining on stucco or siding

  • Water pooling near your building’s base

  • Foundation cracks or basement leaks

  • Downspouts not draining

If you see these signs, act immediately.

🧽 DIY or Hire a Pro? Here’s the Real Cost

Cleaning gutters yourself seems simple — but NYC makes it tricky:

  • Ladder placement is risky on uneven sidewalks

  • 2–4 story buildings require proper harnessing

  • Flat roofs hide clogs in drains and leaders

  • Improper DIY can damage gutters and void warranties

📊 Average Gutter Cleaning Costs in NYC:

Property Type

Price Range

1–2 Family Homes

$100–$200

Brownstones

$150–$250

Multifamily/Flats

$200–$350+

The cost of not cleaning them? $5,000–$15,000 in water damage.

🧠 Gutter Maintenance = Peace of Mind for Property Owners

Keeping gutters clear isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s protection.

At MLM Roofing NYC, we offer:

  • Safe, insured gutter cleanings

  • Flat roof drainage solutions

  • Gutter guard installation to reduce cleaning frequency

  • Priority scheduling for property managers

📩 Ready to Protect Your Property?

Schedule a FREE estimate today and get peace of mind before the next storm hits.

📍 Serving: Brooklyn | Queens | Manhattan📞 Call now or click below to book your inspection.


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🔁 Summary for NYC Landlords

Action

Frequency

Gutter cleaning (standard)

2x per year

After storm/visible overflow

As needed

Gutter guard inspection (if installed)

1x per year

FAQs

Q: Can I skip cleaning if I have gutter guards? Gutter guards reduce cleaning but don’t eliminate it. You still need yearly inspections.

Q: How long does a pro cleaning take? Most jobs take 1–2 hours. We clean and inspect to catch early damage.

Q: Do you offer multi-property discounts? Yes — property managers and landlords can receive bundled pricing.

Final Word:

Don't wait until you see water pouring over the edge. Stay proactive and protect your investment — one clean gutter at a time.


 
 
 

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