Many gutter problems turn out to be easy to fix - perhaps just a case of clearing a blockage or sorting out a loose bracket. So don't call out an expert when you may be able to do the job yourself.

Here are some likely symtoms:

• Rainwater may overflow the gutter indicating a possible blockage.
• Water may be dripping from a crack in the gutter, or from a joint that has come apart.
• The flexibible seal inside one of the gutter components may have failed, again resulting in a leak at that point.
• The gutter may be sagging because a supporting bracket is loose or broken.
• There may be signs of mould growth or even wet rot on the facia behind the gutter, or damp patches on the wall below, showing that there's a leak or overflow.

If you have any of these symtoms the time has come to investigate your gutters. Lean a ladder against the wall and peer into the gutter where you think the problem is. Then take appropriate action which you'll find by clicking on the relevant  link above.