Downspouts channel water from your roof and gutters into the ground following a specific route so water doesn’t accumulate around your house’s foundation. Without a downspout, the standing water will wash away material and disrupt the soil, leading to foundation erosion. The standing water will also form ice around your house during cold weather, causing a safety hazard.

It’s technically possible to remove some soffit material without removing your gutters, but it’s usually a good idea to remove gutters, fascia, and soffit and then reinstall them in the opposite order. Replacing soffits without removing gutters is likely to leave you with a less professional and clean appearance, and you’re more likely to do damage to your gutters and fascia boards in the process.

While minimal drippage may not be problematic, gutters that are constantly leaking or overflowing indicate damage or improper installation. A rain chain gutter or other ornamental feature may produce more dripping than usual. Likewise, rain dispersal systems may also cause water to sprinkle to the ground. However, if you notice pools of water or flooding around your property, then it’s a good idea to have your gutter system inspected.

Icicles don't necessarily mean your gutters are clogged or bad, but they can indicate an underlying issue. While clogged gutters can cause icicles to form, the problem could also be an ice dam on your roof from poor insulation. In that case, melting snow can refreeze in the gutter even without a clog. Regardless of the cause, the weight of the ice can damage your gutters or even rip them completely off the house. If you are unsure of the underlying problem, it's best to call a roofing company to assess the issue and implement a permanent solution.