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.
Gutters aren't typically an aesthetic feature of a home, they're a functional requirement--something an inspector would pick up on, but not necessarily a potential homebuyer. They are not a desire for anyone, but are a part of the function of the building system of the house, to prevent water intrusion.
With this in mind, some might wonder if gutters in California are needed at all. According to California codes, at least as of this writing, “gutters” themselves are not required, however positive drainage away from the foundation of a building, while controlling erosion, is required.
Unfortunately, a house without gutters is more vulnerable to foundation damage when compared to properties that have seamless gutter systems. When water is not diverted away from your home, it causes soil erosion to the surrounding areas, which alters the foundation.
Top reasons homes fail inspection
Structural problems could include: Foundation flaws such as cracks, troublesome tree roots and uneven settling or lack of steel reinforcement. An aging, damaged or deteriorating roof. Missing flashing or shingles.
Even if your local codes don't explicitly require gutters, there are several reasons to install them. Beyond mere compliance, gutters offer a range of benefits, including erosion prevention, basement waterproofing, and protecting your landscaping from excessive water runoff.
A prospective buyer who sees a house without gutters, or with a faulty gutter system, can very easily be turned off and won't even continue to look at the rest of the house. Leaky, clogged gutters, or even worse, no gutters at all and a virtual waterfall off the edge of your roof, leave an unfortunate first impression.
Your new gutters should be installed at a certain angle to ensure rainwater is diverted to the drains. As a rule of thumb, gutters should have a slope of 1/4 inch for every 10 feet.
While this task can be doable for those who don't mind getting up on a ladder, it's important to remember that improper gutter removal can damage your fascia or roof. That's why most people trust gutter removal to the same contractor they've hired to install a new gutter design.
More specifically, the model codes do not contain any minimum requirements for the durability of such items as doors, windows, gutters and downspouts, painting and wall coverings, kitchen cabinets and carpeting.
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.
Drip Path
Looking to replace the traditional gutter system at your place? Enter the concept of a drip path. Drip paths, simply put, are a smart method that directs rainwater away from the foundation of your home without using gutters. It's essentially a narrow strip filled with gravel or rock bordering your home.
An appraiser will look to ensure that gutters are present and in good condition, and directing water away from the foundation of the house.
Without gutters, water never makes it very far from your home. Often it will land directly below where your roof ends and stand in pools unless there is a natural slope present. That high volume of water can create problems.
Gutters do not necessarily add to the value of your home. If you spend $2,000 on gutters, your home's appraisal value probably won't increase by $2,000. That doesn't mean they're a bad investment though. In fact, they could be one of the best investments you make for your home.
Installing gutters on your own can be a really satisfying project that saves you money and helps protect your home from water damage. However, it does require some careful planning, the right tools, and accurate measurements to make sure you get it right.
Gutters protect your foundation by directing rainwater away from the base of your home. Without them, water pools around the foundation, seeping into the ground. Over time, this can cause cracks and weaken the foundation, leading to significant structural problems.
Rain Gutter Size and Quality
Larger gutters tend to be more expensive per linear foot. Additionally, the quality of the chosen material plays a significant role in the overall cost, with durability and longevity being key considerations.
A cracked foundation can compromise the structural soundness of your home. Slab foundations are susceptible to cracking just like other types of foundations, and a lack of gutters can be a big contributor to this problem. Below, learn how not having gutters can cause cracks and water damage to slab foundations.
Damaged pipes, malfunctioning water heaters, and backed-up sewage systems are commonly found in home inspections. Older homes carry pipes that are outdated and prone to failure. Home inspectors will report these incompatible plumbing materials, as well as any ruptures, leaks, or backups in a home's sewage system.
A home doesn't have to “pass” an inspection in order for a sale to take place, but rather, a home inspection is an essential overview of a home's condition at the time of the inspection. No home is perfect, and buyers should always be prepared to discover the maintenance needs of their new homes.
An inspection can reveal the presence of harmful substances like radon, carbon monoxide and mold. Look for these hazards before the home is officially yours. You don't want any unpleasant surprises after it's too late.