Record existing drainage problems before demolition
Give the contractor photographs of overflow, staining on fascia or siding, loose gutters and erosion near downspouts. Identify whether problems happen at one valley, a roof-wall corner or along a whole eave. These locations help the team evaluate collection and outlet arrangements.
PNNL’s Building America guidance connects gutters and downspouts with keeping roof runoff away from the building. The right layout and discharge arrangement still depend on the property; one standard downspout detail will not fit every site.
Coordinate flashing and gutter work
Ask how drip-edge flashing, underlayment and the gutter will be integrated. At roof-wall intersections, step flashing and kick-out flashing help direct water away from the wall and toward the gutter. These details deserve their own line in a scope when affected by reroofing.
If siding or masonry blocks access to concealed flashing, discuss that condition before work starts. A roofing-only allowance may not include the exterior work needed to create an effective connection.
Make reuse and replacement decisions explicit
Gutters do not automatically need replacement because shingles do, and an old gutter should not automatically be reused because it looks intact. Ask the contractor to evaluate condition, attachment and the reported drainage problem.
- Identify gutters that will be removed and reinstalled versus replaced.
- State how fascia deterioration discovered during work will be handled.
- Review downspout discharge so it does not create a walkway or foundation-area problem.
- Coordinate any gutter guards with future cleaning access.
Check performance after completion
Closeout should include the drainage work shown in the contract, not just the new roof surface. Keep photographs of the completed roof-edge connections and note any excluded underground drainage work. Ask how remaining overflow or leakage complaints will be evaluated after a rain.