That rhythmic drip, drip, drip isn't just keeping you awake at night—it’s washing money down the drain. A leaking tap can waste up to 20,000 litres of water a year, adding significantly to your water bill.
But is it cheaper to fix it yourself or call a plumber?
The short answer: In Australia, the cost to fix a leaking tap generally falls between $120 and $250. If the tap is old or corroded and needs a full replacement, the cost for supply and installation typically ranges from $300 to $550+, depending on the quality of the tapware you choose.
Below, we break down the specific plumber rates, the difference between repairing and replacing, and what you should expect to pay in 2026.
Estimated Leaking Tap Repair Costs (2026)
Prices vary depending on whether you need a simple washer change or a brand new mixer installed.
| Service Type | Estimated Cost (AUD) | What's Included? |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Tap Service (Washer/O-Ring) | $120 – $180 | Call-out + replacing washers/jumper valves and reseating. |
| Spindle Replacement | $180 – $280 | Replacing the internal mechanism if the thread is worn. |
| Install Customer-Supplied Tap | $150 – $250 | Labour only. You buy the tap; the plumber installs it. |
| Supply & Install Standard Mixer | $300 – $550 | Includes a standard chrome mixer tap (e.g., Posh or similar). |
| Supply & Install Premium Tapware | $600+ | Designer brands (e.g., brushed brass, matte black) + labour. |
Repair vs. Replace: Which Do You Need?
When you ask for a quote, the plumber will need to know if you want to service the existing tap or replace it entirely.
1. Tap Service (Washer & Reseat)
Cost: $120 – $180 If you have traditional taps (with a handle that turns), the leak is usually caused by a worn rubber washer or jumper valve.
- The Process: The plumber dismantles the tap, replaces the washer, cleans the O-rings, and "reseats" the tap (grinding the metal surface smooth so the washer seals tight).
- Best For: Taps that are in good cosmetic condition but just won't turn off fully.
2. Mixer Tap Replacement
Cost: $300 – $550 (Supply + Install) Modern "Flick Mixer" taps (common in kitchens and newer vanities) use a ceramic cartridge rather than a rubber washer.
- The Issue: When these start leaking, the cartridge is often expensive or hard to source.
- The Solution: It is usually more cost-effective to replace the entire unit.
- Best For: Kitchen mixers, laundry tubs, or when you want to update the look of your bathroom.
Factors That Influence the Price
Why does one plumber quote $150 and another $350?
1. The Call-Out Fee
Most Australian plumbers charge a Service Call Fee (approx. $80 – $120) just to get the van to your driveway. This covers fuel, insurance, and vehicle maintenance. This is why fixing one tap seems expensive—but fixing three taps at once is much better value, as you only pay the call-out fee once.
2. Tapware Brand and Quality
If you are replacing the tap, the hardware cost is the biggest variable.
- Budget (Bunnings/IKEA): $50 – $100. Cheap, but parts may be plastic and wear out faster.
- Mid-Range (Reece/Tradelink): $150 – $300. Solid brass construction, usually with a 5-10 year warranty.
- Premium: $500+. Designer finishes like Brushed Gold or Gunmetal Grey.
3. Accessibility
Is the tap seized shut due to rust? Is the isolation valve under the sink stuck? If the plumber has to cut pipes or work in a tight vanity cabinet, the labour charge (billed in 15-minute increments) will rise.
DIY vs. Professional: Can You Fix It Yourself?
Scenario A: Changing a Washer (DIY Friendly) If you have standard garden or bathroom taps, changing a washer is a classic DIY job. You can buy a pack of washers for $5 at the hardware store.
- Risk: If you don't "reseat" the tap (smooth out the brass), the new washer will tear within weeks, and the leak will return.
Scenario B: Changing a Mixer Tap (Leave it to the Pros) Replacing a kitchen mixer involves reaching up behind the sink bowl and connecting flexible water hoses.
- Risk: Overtightening the flexible hoses can cause them to burst later, flooding your kitchen cabinetry. Under Australian regulations, plumbing work involving the water supply usually requires a licensed professional to ensure compliance and protect your home insurance.
Conclusion
Ignored leaks can lead to mould, cabinet rot, and high water bills. For a standard leaking tap repair, expect to pay around $150. If you are looking to upgrade to a new mixer tap, budget around $350 – $450 for a quality installation.
Pro Tip: Since the call-out fee is the largest part of the bill, check all the taps in your house before the plumber arrives. Getting three dripping taps fixed in one visit is far cheaper than calling them back next month!