Dripping Tap
A tap that drips constantly, wasting water and causing staining around the sink or basin.
What Is Causing This?
- 1Worn washer or O-ring inside the tap
- 2Corroded valve seat
- 3Loose or damaged tap cartridge
How Urgent Is This?
This should be fixed in the coming weeks. Leaving it may allow the problem to worsen and cost more to repair.
What Needs to Be Done
A plumber will disassemble the tap and replace the worn washer, O-ring, or cartridge. Most repairs take under an hour.
How Much Will It Cost?
National average estimate
Labour: £246 – £620 | Materials: £200 – £830
Enter your postcode for a local price estimate
Prices are estimates based on typical UK rates. Actual costs depend on the specific issue, accessibility, and your location. All quotes from tradespeople on Tradesfolk are completely free.
Find a Plumber
Enter your postcode above to find local plumbers, or browse all plumbers.
Find a PlumberWant a More Accurate Diagnosis?
Upload a photo of the problem and our AI tool will give you a detailed diagnosis, estimated cost, and connect you with local tradespeople.
Try Snap and FixStill Not Sure? Ask a Tradesperson
Post your question and get free advice from tradespeople who deal with this every day.
Ask a QuestionHow to Prevent This
Avoid overtightening taps when turning them off. Replace washers at the first sign of dripping rather than waiting for it to worsen.
Related Problems
Other Plumber Problems
Water comes out slowly from taps or the shower, making everyday tasks frustrating.
Water continuously runs into the toilet bowl after flushing, often with a hissing or trickling sound.
Hot water taps run cold or lukewarm despite the boiler or immersion heater being switched on.
Water drains slowly or not at all from a sink, bath, or shower, often with an unpleasant smell.