How Much Does it Cost to Change a Leaking Tap? [2024]

Did you know that a leaking tap can waste up to 24,000 litres of water per year? 

In spite of this, many Australians put up with the constant "drip, drip, dripping" of leaking taps because they have heard stories about the high cost of calling out a plumber to fix the tap. 

How much does it cost to change a leaking tap, really? Is there any way to get the tap fixed without paying too much for the job?

How much does a plumber charge to change a leaking tap?

For any plumbing job, you will be charged a call-out fee, which is usually the equivalent of a plumber's hourly rate. In 2022, this is usually $50-$85 per hour in Australia. A good plumber can often fix a leaking tap in about 10 minutes, but will still charge you at least their call-out fee.

Leaking taps are common and most plumbers should be able to give you quotes for the job online or over the phone. To save money:

• Be as flexible about the call-out time as possible. If the plumber can come at their convenience, they may charge a lower rate.
• If you have other plumbing jobs that need doing, have the leaking tap fixed at the same time and avoid the extra call-out fee.

Most importantly, get quotes from at least three plumbers. Disreputable plumbers have been known to charge up to $450 for fixing leaking taps when customers don't get quotes ahead of time. 

Reputable plumbers frown on this practice because it reflects poorly on their trade. Get your plumbing quotes in advance and you'll be doing both yourself and reputable, licensed plumbers a favour.

Can you fix a leaking tap yourself?

Many do-it-yourselfers fix their own leaking taps and claim anyone can do it. It's not a hard job if you know what you're doing, have the right tools, choose the right replacement fittings, and know what really needs fixing. 

You also need to know if it's legal in your state. In some Australian states, only licensed plumbers can legally do any plumbing work, including repairing leaking taps, so your first job is to contact your local water authority and ask them if it's legal where you live.

Environment Victoria recommends do-it-yourself tap fixing and offers instructions on their website. Basically, this is what you need to know:

1. You need a shifting spanner or set of spanners, a screwdriver and a couple of rags to protect the chrome when removing the taps with the spanner.
2. You need replacement washers, which can be purchased from most local hardware stores.
3. When you're ready, go out to the water meter and turn the water off. Double check when you go inside by running water. Let all the water in the pipes drain out until dripping stops.
4. Take the top off the tap and then remove the handle.
5. Locate and remove the tap body. You'll see the washer at the bottom of the tap body.
6. Replace the washer with an identical washer and put everything together again.

For more detailed instructions, including photos and a video demonstration, visit the Environment Victoria How to fix a dripping tap page and follow the links provided there.

If it all goes according to plan, it can be easy, but the bottom washer is not always the problem. There are other places that can cause leaks and today, not all tapsets are set up alike - =many require special tools and replacement parts. If in doubt, call a plumber.

*Cost and prices in this article are indicative and should only be used as a guide. They also vary locally and are subject to market forces. 

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