Fix a Leaky Faucet
A drip from the spout or a leak at the handle is usually a cartridge, washer, or O-ring. The trick is matching the parts, not the plumbing.
This is a judgment page, not a step-by-step how-to. The procedure lives in the vetted links at the bottom.
The call
Replacing a cartridge, seat washer, or O-ring is a DIY if the shutoff valves under the sink work and you can identify the faucet. Hire a plumber if the valves are seized, the faucet body is cracked, or you would rather replace the whole faucet and the supply lines look corroded.
- Difficulty
- Time
- 1–2 hours
- DIY estimate
- $15–$80
- Pro estimate
- $150–$350
2 of 5
Rough national estimate, not a quote. Prices move with the city, the brand, and whatever the job turns into once you open it up.
Tools
- TODO: affiliate link
Allen wrenches and a screwdriver set
- TODO: affiliate link
Adjustable pliers, with tape on the jaws so they don't scar the finish
- TODO: affiliate link
Flashlight
- TODO: affiliate link
A rag to cover the drain
Materials
- TODO: affiliate link
Replacement cartridge, or a seat-and-spring kit
Match the brand. A photo of the old cartridge saves a second trip.
- TODO: affiliate link
O-rings or a washer assortment
- TODO: affiliate link
Plumber's grease, the kind rated for potable water
Affiliate slots are placeholders. A live shop link will be marked as sponsored. See the affiliate disclosure.
Safety notes
- Shut both the hot and cold valves under the sink. Open the faucet to bleed pressure before you take the handle off.
- If a shutoff valve leaks when you turn it, stop and shut the house main. Old valves fail when they are disturbed.
- Tub and shower valves can dump water into the wall if you pull the cartridge without the water off. Confirm the water is off.
- Don't use a chemical drain opener in a faucet you are about to take apart.
Do I need a permit?
A cartridge or washer is a repair, not a remodel.
Replacing faucet internals almost never needs a permit. Replacing the faucet on the same sink is still usually a repair. Moving the sink, opening a wall, or changing the valve in a shower behind tile can. If the job grows, check your state page and call the local building department.
Permit triggers are local. This is general information, not legal advice. All state pages · Disclaimer
Best How-To Videos & Articles
We link to guides that already exist. We don't rewrite them.
- How to Repair a Leaking Faucet
This Old House · Article
- Fixing a Leaky Faucet
This Old House · Article
TODO: add a verified YouTube link for this project.
Questions people ask first
- Can I fix a leaky faucet myself?
- Yes, if you can shut the water off and match the cartridge or washers. Hire a plumber if the shutoff valves are seized or the faucet body is cracked.
- How much does it cost to fix a leaky faucet?
- A cartridge or repair kit is often $15–$80. A plumber is often $150–$350. Those are rough estimates, not a quote.
- Do I need a permit to fix a faucet?
- Not for a cartridge, washer, or a same-location faucet swap. Call the local building department if you are opening a wall or moving plumbing.