Melbourne’s weather is famously unpredictable. One moment you’re enjoying sunshine, and the next, you’re caught in a sudden downpour. With storm season around the corner, homeowners must pay special attention to one critical aspect of property maintenance—gutter cleaning.

Blocked or poorly maintained gutters can cause severe damage to your home, from roof leaks to foundation issues. Unfortunately, many homeowners only realise there’s a problem once it’s too late. To help you avoid costly repairs, here are 10 warning signs that your gutters need urgent cleaning before Melbourne’s next storm hits.

1. Water Overflow During Rainfall

If you notice water spilling over the sides of your gutters during a downpour, it’s a clear indication they are clogged. Instead of directing water safely away from your home, the blockage forces water to overflow, increasing the risk of roof leaks, fascia damage, and soil erosion around your foundation.

2. Visible Plant Growth in Gutters

Gutters filled with dirt, leaves, and organic matter can become the perfect breeding ground for moss, weeds, and even small plants. If you spot greenery sprouting along your roofline, it means your gutters are full of debris and no longer functioning properly.

3. Sagging or Detached Gutters

When gutters are clogged, water and debris add excessive weight. Over time, this can cause them to sag, pull away from the fascia board, or even collapse. Sagging gutters not only look unsightly but also disrupt the water flow, leading to pooling and structural damage.

4. Water Stains on Walls and Ceilings

If you’ve noticed unexplained water stains on your walls or ceilings, your gutters may be the culprit. Overflowing or leaking gutters can direct water into your home instead of away from it, resulting in costly internal damage, mould growth, and weakened plaster.

5. Pools of Water Around the Foundation

After a heavy rain, check your property’s perimeter. Pools of water near your foundation suggest your gutters are not draining correctly. Left unchecked, this can compromise your foundation, cause basement flooding, or lead to soil movement around your home.

6. Rust, Holes, or Cracks in Gutters

Excess moisture caused by stagnant water accelerates rusting and corrosion. If you see rusty patches, cracks, or holes in your gutter system, it’s often because water has been sitting there for too long—another tell-tale sign of clogs.

7. Pest Infestations

Blocked gutters create damp environments that attract pests like mosquitoes, cockroaches, and even rodents. Birds may also nest in the debris. If you’ve noticed increased pest activity around your roofline, your gutters could be to blame.

8. Peeling Exterior Paint or Rotting Fascia

Overflowing water from clogged gutters runs down exterior walls, damaging paint and siding. In severe cases, moisture seeps into the fascia boards, causing rot. This weakens your gutter system’s support structure and makes repairs more complicated and expensive.

9. Unpleasant Odours or Mould Growth

When organic matter like leaves and twigs sit in damp gutters, they begin to decompose, producing unpleasant smells. Additionally, mould and mildew thrive in these moist conditions. If you detect a foul odour near your gutters or spot mould growth on your walls, urgent cleaning is required.

10. You Can’t Remember the Last Time They Were Cleaned

Finally, if you can’t recall when you last scheduled a professional gutter cleaning, chances are your gutters are already overdue. In Melbourne’s climate, with frequent rain and seasonal leaf fall, gutters should ideally be cleaned at least twice a year—before winter and before storm season.

Why Urgent Gutter Cleaning Matters in Melbourne

Delaying gutter cleaning before a storm can expose your property to:

• Roof leaks that damage insulation and ceilings.

• Structural problems from water pooling around foundations.

• Mould growth that impacts indoor air quality and health.

• Costly repairs that could have been prevented with simple maintenance.

Proactive cleaning ensures your gutters perform their essential role: directing water safely away from your home.

How Starvacs Can Help

At Starvacs, we specialise in professional roof and gutter cleaning across Melbourne. Our team uses advanced equipment to clear debris, flush downpipes, and restore proper water flow—keeping your home safe during unpredictable storms.

Whether you’re dealing with clogged gutters, pest issues, or signs of water damage, our experts provide tailored solutions that extend the life of your guttering system and protect your home investment.

Final Thoughts

Storm season in Melbourne is no time to take chances with your gutters. By paying attention to these 10 warning signs, you can prevent minor clogs from turning into major disasters.

If you’ve noticed overflowing water, sagging gutters, or mould growth, it’s time to act. Schedule a professional gutter cleaning service with Starvacs today and ensure your home is storm-ready.