1. Observe and protect
Document what's happening at the roofline, limit further damage where it's safe to do so, and note any prior work at the Birmingham property.
2. Evaluate the house and site
Roof area, valleys, tree debris, fascia condition, downspout placement, and the final discharge point matter more in Birmingham than gutter color -- especially given heavy summer thunderstorms and a hardwood tree canopy over the metro's mill-era and postwar neighborhoods.
3. Define a written scope
Clarify preparation, protection, materials suited to Birmingham, access, permits, testing, cleanup, finish restoration, exclusions, and change-order rules.
4. Compare providers
Verify credentials and compare the reasoning and boundaries behind each proposal for your Birmingham project -- not only the total.
5. Inspect closeout
Confirm testing, cleanup, documentation, warranties, and remaining maintenance responsibilities for the Birmingham project.