Plumbing service guide

Faucet & Sink Repair

Faucet and sink repair fixes drips, leaks and flow problems in kitchen, bathroom and utility faucets and sinks, including cartridges, valves, supply lines, drains and seals.

Gloved hands working on a kitchen faucet
Quick answerA dripping faucet is a small problem that is worth fixing early, and a leak under a sink can quietly damage a cabinet for months. Most faucet issues are cartridge or seal problems; most under-sink leaks come from supply connections or drain slip joints.

What this service solves

  • Dripping faucets
  • Leaks under the sink
  • Low flow from a faucet
  • Loose handles and spouts
  • Cracked or chipped sinks
Hands operating a single-handle kitchen faucet
Stock photo: naipo.de / Unsplash

Common symptoms

  • Drip from the spout
  • Water around the faucet base
  • Damp cabinet floor
  • Handle that is stiff or loose
  • Sprayer that leaks or has weak flow

Most likely causes

Worn cartridge or washer

Cartridges and washers wear out, causing drips from the spout.

O-ring failure

Worn O-rings cause leaks around the base of the spout.

Loose supply connections

Compression nuts and supply hoses can loosen or wear.

Drain leaks

Slip-joint washers on the trap or a failed basket strainer seal cause leaks under the sink.

Mineral buildup

Hard water clogs aerators and cartridges.

How the problem is diagnosed

  1. Identify faucet type (cartridge, ball, ceramic disc, compression)
  2. Check whether the leak is supply (constant) or drain (only when draining)
  3. Inspect shutoff valves

Repair and replacement options

Repair and replacement options
OptionBest forWhat to know
Cartridge or washer replacementDripsMatching the cartridge to the brand and model is important.
Supply line and stop valve replacementUnder-sink supply leaksOld multi-turn stops often fail when first used.
Drain resealLeaks only when drainingReplace washers or the basket strainer.
Faucet replacementCorroded or obsolete faucetsOften more sensible than repair for old faucets without available parts.

What a plumber normally does

  1. Shut off supply valves
  2. Disassemble and identify parts
  3. Repair or replace
  4. Test for leaks

Emergency warning signs

  • Supply line burst under the sink
  • Water reaching other rooms

If you see any of these, shut off water first. See emergency plumbing steps.

What affects the cost

We don’t publish national price figures because real quotes vary too much by region, access and the condition of your system. These are the factors that move the price:

  • Faucet brand and part availability
  • Condition of shutoff valves
  • Sink material and mounting
  • Countertop modifications

Ask for a written quote that names the method, materials and any permit or restoration work before work begins.

DIY vs. calling a professional

Reasonable for homeowners

  • Cleaning aerators
  • Replacing a cartridge on common faucets
  • Tightening slip joints

Call a professional for

  • Seized valves
  • Sink replacement involving countertops
  • Moving supply or drain lines

Prevention and maintenance

  • Clean aerators
  • Replace braided supply lines every several years
  • Do not overtighten handles

Specific faucet & sink repair services

Faucet & Sink Repair: common questions

Why is my faucet dripping?

Worn cartridges, washers or seals are the usual cause. The fix depends on the faucet type, so identifying the brand helps.

Why is there water under my sink?

If it leaks constantly, check supply lines and shutoff valves. If it leaks only when the sink drains, check the trap, drain connections and basket strainer.

Should I repair or replace an old faucet?

If parts are available and the body is in good condition, repair is reasonable. Corroded bodies, obsolete models or repeated leaks favor replacement.

Need a plumber today?

One call connects you with plumbing help in your area.

Call now(866) 417-0220
Call now(866) 417-0220