Does a home warranty cover gutter replacement?
When insurance replaces gutters
- Hail dented the runs and downspouts.
- Wind tore sections from the fascia.
- A falling limb crushed a run.
Report gutter damage on the same claim as any roof damage from that storm so you pay one deductible. Check the estimate for gutter and downspout lines per linear foot, plus guards if you had them.
When it is on you
Gutters that rust through, leak at every seam, sag from rotted fascia, or are simply undersized for the roof are upkeep. That is the time to plan an upgrade rather than a like for like swap.
Smart timing: replace with the roof
Gutters and the roof edge work together. When the roof is replaced, the drip edge is installed so it laps into the gutter. If the gutters will be replaced in the next few years anyway, doing both at once avoids detaching and rehanging gutters twice and lets the fascia be repaired while everything is open.
What to specify
- Seamless aluminum in a heavier gauge resists dents and sagging.
- Six inch gutters and 3 by 4 inch downspouts for large or steep roofs.
- Hidden hangers spaced closely, driven into solid fascia.
- Downspouts discharging well away from the foundation.
For storm claims, see the after a hail storm checklist, and to read gutter lines on the insurer's estimate, see the Xactimate guide.