Eaves gutters are the lowest risk roof drainage method when installed and maintained correctly.
However, we still see defects caused by incorrect fall, poor bracket spacing, inadequate downpipe provisions, as well as a common lack of maintenance.
Eaves gutters must comply with AS/NZS 3500.3, NCC H2D6, and manufacturer installation requirements. This includes correct fall toward downpipes, correct number and spacing of downpipes, secure fixing, and discharge to a complaint stormwater point. A gutter that holds water is non-compliant.
Even a perfectly installed eaves gutter will fail if filled with leaf litter or blocked at the downpipes. Overflow from blocked gutters is a very common cause of water damage to the home, and often causing nuisance water staining to light coloured walls.
Modern systems now available significantly reduce this risk, including gutter guard systems, covered gutter profiles, leaf-shedding designs, and higher capacity gutter profiles. These are not mandatory, but they are effective risk-reduction measures, particularly in treed suburbs in the bush capital.
Providing correct installation, clear maintenance advice to homeowners, and the option for gutter protection systems can greatly reduce future defect/maintenance risk and dispute exposure.
If you have any questions or need further guidance, please don’t hesitate to contact our Advisory team:
📞 (02) 6175 5900
📧 workplace@mba.org.au
