Six-footer removes roof leaves (5)

I believe the answer is:

exits

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'leaves' is the definition.
('exit' can be a synonym of 'leave')

I cannot understand how the rest of the clue works.

(Other definitions for exits that I've seen before include "Goes out, leaves" , "Withdraws" , "Egresses" , "Ways out" , "Leaves the stage" .)

I've seen this clue in the Irish Times.

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