Roof
Clear the gutters and downspouts
Twice a year, in October.
What to do
Scoop the gutters out and flush them with a hose, then check the water leaves the downspouts and goes somewhere away from the house.
Why it matters
Overflowing gutters put water at the base of the wall, which is exactly where it must not go. The Alberta warranty excludes water damage traced back to eavestroughs and downspouts the owner did not manage.
What to look for
- Standing water in the gutter after flushing, which means it is not draining or not sloped
- Shingle granules collected in the trough — normal in small amounts, a sign of a worn roof in quantity
- Joints pulling apart or brackets lifting away from the fascia
- Downspout extensions still attached and directing water at least two metres out
- Staining on the wall below a joint, which is a leak you cannot see from above
Where this comes from
Habitat Studio p.16 says at least twice a year, plus after any heavy windstorm; CMHC agrees. October and April here — after leaf fall, and after the melt.
Catch it while it’s still maintenance.
Domisura keeps this schedule for your house — dated to when things went in, and reminding you when each task comes round. The record stays with the address when you sell.
Start a record for your homeGeneral guidance, not professional advice. For gas, electricity, structure or water, get a qualified trade.