In February 2026, Craig Howell officially opened the doors to Gutter-Vac Brimbank. Although he is only one month into running his franchise, together with his wife, Wendy, and son, Jordon, they are ready to become Brimbank gutter gurus. His journey into business ownership is a great example of how industry experience and the desire for a better work life balance can combine to create a successful start in franchising.
Craig’s gutter cleaning story did not begin with Gutter-Vac. Before joining the franchise, he spent several years cleaning gutters for a company on the Sunshine Coast. That hands-on experience gave him a deep understanding of the challenges homeowners face when it comes to maintaining their properties. It also sparked something else. He wanted to take his skills and knowledge and turn them into something of his own. A business where he could set his schedule, choose his lifestyle, and build a trusted reputation under a strong national brand.
When Craig began researching franchise opportunities, Gutter-Vac stood out immediately. The company’s long history, proven systems and strong brand recognition all matched what he was looking for. He wanted independence: to be his own boss while still feeling supported. Choosing Gutter-Vac was a natural fit.
Now operating in Brimbank, Victoria, Craig spends most of his days carrying out the type of work he knows best—professional gutter cleaning for single and double story homes. The suburbs across Brimbank are known for their tall gum trees and leafy streets. As beautiful as they are, those gum trees drop large amounts of leaves, bark, and twigs, which quickly fill gutters and downpipes. Craig sees the impact of this every day. Blocked gutters overflow during storms, water runs back into roof cavities, and debris builds up faster than many homeowners realise.
That is why regular gutter cleaning is so important for properties in the area. It is not just about appearance. It is about protecting homes from preventable water damage. Craig takes pride in knowing that his work helps keep local families safe, dry, and stress free during heavy rain. For him, gutter cleaning is a way of giving homeowners peace of mind.
Although Craig came into the franchise with real industry experience, one thing surprised him during his first month as a business owner. The level of technical detail involved in running a franchise. There were new systems to learn, processes to follow, and business responsibilities he had not managed before. There is a real jump from employee to owner, but instead of seeing this as a challenge, he embraced it. Every new skill has strengthened his confidence and expanded his capabilities.
When asked what he enjoys most about being part of Gutter-Vac, Craig’s answer is clear. The best part about running his franchise is helping local homeowners protect their properties while building a trusted business in the community and enjoying the freedom of being his own boss.
Craig may only be one month into his Gutter-Vac journey, but he is already proving that a strong work ethic and a supportive franchise system can create a powerful start. Brimbank homeowners are in good hands, and Craig is excited for everything ahead as his business continues to grow.
If you’re looking for gutter cleaning in the Brimbank region, request your free quote today!
