Does a House Need Gutters To Pass Inspection?

If you’re purchasing a new home, you want to ensure it’s in the best possible condition. When you get it inspected, there’s a collection of requirements and codes that it must meet. If you notice that the home doesn’t have gutters, you might wonder, “Does a house need gutters to pass inspection?” We’re here to tell you everything you need to know. 

Does a House Need Gutters To Pass Inspection?

In short, the answer is no — a house does not need gutters to pass inspection. Gutters aren’t code-mandated, so a home inspector is unlikely to call out missing gutters. However, if the inspector notices damage to the property that could be due to the lack of gutters, they may recommend that you install them.

Legislation doesn’t require gutters, but they can help protect your home from various problems, including soil erosion, rot around the base of the house, or damage to the foundation. 

Do Home Inspectors Check Your Gutters?

During the home inspection process, the inspector should examine the gutter system (if you have one). They’ll look at the gutters, downspouts, and water flowing away from the foundation. Here’s what they’ll be keeping their eyes out for:

• Debris clogging the gutters, preventing proper water drainage
• Evidence of overflow from the gutter system
• Secure gutter piping that’s sloped to ensure water can flow freely
• Leaks caused by damage, cracks, splits, or rust
• An adequate number of downspouts
• If downspouts discharge onto the roof surface
• Damage to the foundation from the downspouts

How Can I Tell if My House Needs Gutters?

When you’re house shopping, you’ll notice that not every home has gutters. While gutters aren’t required to keep a home up to code, they can be a fantastic investment that can help protect your house. 

If you’re wondering if your house needs gutters, several factors come into play. Here’s what you need to evaluate: 

• • Overhang – Typical roof overhangs used to protect from rainfall are 16-18 inches wide. If your overhang is less than this, consider installing gutters.
  • Climate – If you live in an area that doesn’t experience a lot of snow or rainfall, gutters might not be necessary. The amount of water falling along and off the roof isn’t significant enough, and water damage is unlikely to occur.
  • Eave flashing – If your home already has eave flashing, that could be enough to protect it. If it doesn’t, you could have bare wood exposed, and water could rot your roof. Adding eave flashing or gutters will prevent this.

• • Slopes – Implementing a gutter system is a good idea if your home sits at the bottom of a hill or other upward slope. Without gutters, rainwater could build up around your foundation instead of moving away from it.

Werner Roofing Is Here for All Your Gutter Needs

Do you need help preparing for your home inspection, or do you have repairs to make post-inspection? Werner Roofing is here to help!

Our Werner Roofing team can come to your property and evaluate your roof’s condition at no cost. We’ll make recommendations for maintenance or repair and provide you with a free estimate to get your roof in tip-top shape. Give us a call today to schedule a roof inspection, repairs, or, if need be, a roof replacement by dialing 616-844-5382 today.