Fix a tap which isn’t working properly

Trade: Plumber

⭐ Introduction

If your tap isn’t working properly—whether it’s dripping constantly, not turning on or off smoothly, or has low water pressure—it’s more than just a minor annoyance. Left unchecked, a faulty tap can waste water and increase your bills or even cause damage from leaks. Fixing or replacing a tap promptly ensures your plumbing runs efficiently and helps you avoid more costly repairs down the line.

This is a common plumbing issue that homeowners often encounter. A plumber can quickly diagnose the problem and carry out repairs or a replacement if necessary. Whether it’s a washer, cartridge, or valve problem inside the tap, addressing it promptly is the best way to restore proper function.

🔧 What the job involves

Fixing a tap that isn’t working properly usually means identifying the root cause of the problem and either repairing or replacing worn components. Here’s what it might involve:

Diagnosing the issue: Understanding whether the problem is a leak, blockage, stiffness, or pressure drop.
Turning off the water supply: To safely work on the tap without flooding.
Taking the tap apart: Removing the handle and body to access internal parts like washers, O-rings, or ceramic cartridges.
Replacing worn parts: Worn washers or cartridges are common culprits, especially in older taps.
Reassembling and testing: Putting everything back together and checking for leaks or proper flow.
Cleaning affected parts: Sometimes mineral build-up or debris can cause issues, so cleaning might be necessary.
If needed, full tap replacement: In cases of significant damage or if parts are no longer available, the plumber may recommend installing a new tap.

For taps connected to your central heating or boiler system, a Gas Safe registered engineer may be needed if any work impacts gas appliances. Generally, fixing a standard kitchen or bathroom tap does not require special certification but must comply with water regulations and good practice to avoid leaks or contamination.

📝 Step-by-step from booking to completion

Initial enquiry: Contact a reputable, local plumber by phone or online to describe the problem.
Booking a visit: Arrange a convenient date and time for the plumber to inspect your tap.
Survey and diagnosis: The plumber attends, examines the tap, identifies the fault, and explains repair options.
Quotation: You receive a clear quote detailing labour, parts, and any other costs.
Scheduling works: Agree on a date to carry out the repair (sometimes the same day as the survey if the plumber has parts available).
Day-of works: The plumber arrives, isolates your water supply, repairs or replaces parts, reassembles the tap, and tests for proper function.
Clean up: The plumber tidies the workspace and disposes of any old parts responsibly.
Completion and paperwork: You receive a job sheet or invoice detailing the work done, parts fitted, and any guarantees provided.
Post-job advice: The plumber may offer tips on care and warn about warning signs for future issues.

💷 Main costs to expect

Labour: Most plumbers charge between £40 and £70 per hour, depending on location and experience.
Materials/parts: Washers or O-rings can cost just a few pounds; ceramic cartridges or more complex parts up to £30 or more.
Extras: Call-out fees may apply if an initial visit is separate from the repair.
Disposal: Generally included, but sometimes a small fee applies for disposal of old parts.
Certification: Usually not required for tap repairs; no additional costs here unless it links to gas or water regulations.

Example itemisation:

Item	Cost (£)
Call-out charge	40
Labour (1 hour)	50
Replacement cartridge	25
VAT (20%)	23
Total estimate	138

📊 What affects the price

Accessibility of the tap (tight spaces or awkward corners).
Type of tap (traditional pillar taps usually cheaper to fix than modern mixer taps with cartridges).
Complexity of the fault (simple washer replacement vs faulty valve or corroded fittings).
Need for urgent or out-of-hours work.
Whether water needs to be drained from your system.
Location (London and the South East typically more expensive).
If the problem affects other plumbing parts requiring additional work.
Required certifications or compliance to water regulations if linked to other plumbing upgrades.

⏱ How long does it take?

Simple repair or cartridge replacement: Usually 30 minutes to 1 hour.
More complex issues or corrosion: 1 to 2 hours.
Full tap replacement: Around 1 to 2 hours, depending on access and whether plumbing modifications are needed.

If you have multiple taps or additional plumbing jobs, expect more time accordingly.

🏠 Can you DIY it?

Minor tap repairs, such as replacing washers or cleaning aerators, can sometimes be done by confident DIYers with basic tools. However, there are some cautions:

Turning off your water supply correctly is essential to avoid damage or flooding.
Reassembling tap parts must be done carefully to prevent leaks.
Some taps, especially modern mixers or those connected to mains pressure systems, can be more complicated.
If your tap is connected to hot water systems or gas appliances, it’s best left to professionals for safety reasons.
Plumbing work must comply with Building Regulations and water supply safety.

If you’re unsure or uncomfortable, it’s safer and often more economical in the long run to hire a qualified plumber.

💰 Typical UK price range

Expect to pay between £80 and £180 for a straightforward tap repair or cartridge replacement. More complex jobs, full replacements, or emergency call-outs will cost more.

These are rough estimates including VAT at 20%. Always request a clear written quote beforehand.

✅ Handy tips before you start

Locate your stopcock: Knowing where to turn off your home water supply will speed up repairs and reduce risks.
Clear the working area: Remove items under sinks or around the tap to give the plumber easy access.
Keep paperwork: Retain quotes, receipts, and job sheets for any future warranty or servicing.
Check tap warranty: If your tap is relatively new, check whether it’s still under manufacturer warranty before commissioning repairs.
Regularly clean taps: Limescale and debris can cause problems; occasional cleaning of aerators helps maintain flow.
Ask about guarantees: Most plumbers provide a warranty on labour and parts—check the duration.
Avoid delaying repairs: Even minor drips waste water and money.

Fixing your tap soon not only preserves your plumbing but gives you peace of mind at the tap!