Emergency
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Uncleared gutters may contain the perfect fuel for ember attacks to ignite a fire on your home.
Most houses lost in Australian bushfires are from ember attacks, not direct flame contact.
Combustible materials like dry leaves, twigs and bark that have become trapped in your gutters can be easily ignited by an ember attack and spread fire to your roof. That’s why it’s important to clean your gutters regularly.
Working at heights is dangerous. Always consider professional help, especially for multi-storey homes. Any clearing of debris that requires the gutter or downpipe to be detached or altered must be carried out by a roof plumber. Call a roofer to assess the condition of your roof and carry out any repairs.
Check they’re in good condition. Make sure your gutters are secure by checking the bolts and screws – these should be tight.
There may be more to clearing your gutters than you first thought. Always use protective gear, find out which tools will help you do a thorough job, and engage a professional if you need to.
Consider using a telescopic gutter clearing tool
To avoid working at heights, consider using a telescopic gutter clearing tool with an extendable pole to scoop or brush debris from the ground.
Wear gloves
Especially when removing debris by hand. Clear out leaves, twigs, and other debris from gutters. Work systematically from one end to the other.
Use a gutter scoop or trowel
These will allow you to effectively scrape along the gutter. Avoid pushing debris into the downpipes, and be careful not to put too much pressure, or lean on the gutters as you clean, as this can damage them.
Flush away remaining dirt
Hose down gutters after you’ve removed debris to clear away any build-up.
Dispose of debris
Collect debris and dispose of it in your green bin or compost later.
Working at heights is dangerous so ask for help if you need it
Some repairs must be carried out by certified tradespeople. Always consider calling an expert to help clear your gutters:
It helps to have a few details ready
Gloves
Hose
Hose jet nozzle attachment
Narrow gutter scoop
Bucket
Pop-up garden bag
Garden trowel
The risk ratings displayed by this tool are based on postcode-level data only and are not based on your own home’s characteristics. They reflect an average across all properties within a postcode and are provided as general information. They are not a substitute for a property-specific risk assessment.
Risk is distributed unevenly across properties within any postcode, which means most individual properties will not have the postcode-average risk rating, but will have a risk rating that is either higher or lower than the postcode average shown. This tool should not be used to calculate, predict or estimate the sum insured applicable to any individual property nor is this tool used by NRMA Insurance to calculate your premium. NRMA Insurance accepts no liability for any loss or damage arising from reliance on the information provided by this tool.
The information provided by this tool is general information only and does not constitute financial or professional advice. It does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation, or needs (“your personal circumstances”). Before making any insurance decision, you should consider your personal circumstances and the relevant Product Disclosure Statement. The Product Disclosure Statement and Target Market Determinations are available at nrma.com.au. Insurance is issued by Insurance Australia Limited ABN 11 000 016 722 AFSL 227681 trading as NRMA Insurance.