How Much Does It Cost to Repair a Leaky Sink?

You hear it. The drip-drip-drip that haunts your kitchen late at night. Maybe you see a puddle under the cabinet, or water stains blooming on the ceiling below. A leaky sink can go from annoyance to disaster faster than you might think. At Sky High Plumbing, we get calls like yours all the time—residents and business owners frantic to stop the water, save their property, and avoid a surprise bill.

But how much does it actually cost to fix a leaky sink? Let's break it down—so you know what to expect, what you’re paying for, and when you might need emergency plumbing help.

Types of Sink Leaks 🚰

Not all leaks are created equal. Some are quick fixes. Others dig deep, hiding behind walls or under floors. Here are the main culprits:

• Leaking Faucet: That steady drip is usually caused by worn washers or seals inside the faucet. Sometimes it's just age; sometimes it's mineral buildup.
• Leaking Drain or P-Trap: Water under the sink? The culprit could be the curved drain pipe (the p-trap) or loose connections.
• Supply Line Leaks: Flexible hoses connect your sink to the main water line. If these crack or their fittings loosen, leaks can spring up fast.
• Seal and Caulking Failures: The ring around your sink basin or countertop can wear out, letting water seep into cabinets or walls.
• Under-Sink Shutoff Valves: These tiny valves can rust out, leak, or fail completely.

Each leak has its own signature—and its own repair price. Knowing where the water’s coming from is the first step to stopping it.

Factors Affecting Sink Repair Cost

So, what goes into the bill? Here are the big-ticket variables:

• Location of the Leak: A faucet leak is easier (and cheaper) to reach than a supply line hidden in the wall.
• Parts Needed: Simple washers cost pennies. A new faucet, supply hose, or p-trap can run from $10 to over $200, depending on brand and model.
• Labor Time: Most plumbers charge by the hour. Quick fixes might take 30 minutes; complex jobs can stretch to several hours.
• Emergency vs. Scheduled: Need a plumber at 2 a.m.? After-hours or emergency plumbing rates are often higher.
• Extent of Damage: If water has warped cabinets or soaked drywall, the repair bill can include far more than plumbing.
• Business vs. Home: Commercial sinks, especially in restaurants or shops, may have specialized fixtures or code requirements—sometimes raising costs.

Most homeowners report spending between $150 and $450 for basic sink leak repairs. But prices can swing higher for hidden leaks, custom parts, or emergencies.

DIY vs. Pro Costs

You might wonder: Can I fix this myself? Sometimes, yes. Sometimes, no.

DIY Sink Repairs

• Faucet drips: Replacing a washer or O-ring can be a quick Saturday project if you’re handy with a wrench.
• Loose connections: Tightening the slip nuts on your p-trap or supply line might solve the problem.
• Caulking: Refreshing the seal around your sink with silicone is usually straightforward.

But...

• If water is leaking inside the walls, beneath the floor, or from the shutoff valves, it’s time to call in a licensed plumber.

When to Call Sky High Plumbing

• Persistent leaks: If you’ve tried tightening and resealing but water keeps coming.
• Rusty or corroded pipes: These need more than a quick patch.
• Emergency flooding: Rapid leaks that threaten your property or safety.

Professional plumbers have the right tools, follow local codes (refer to the International Plumbing Code), and can spot hidden damage before it gets worse. And when things go sideways, insurance often prefers licensed repairs.

How to Get an Accurate Estimate 💡

No one likes surprise bills. Here’s how to get a fair, transparent quote:

• Describe the Problem: Be as specific as possible—where’s the water showing up? When did you notice it?
• Ask What’s Included: Does the estimate cover parts and labor? Are emergency plumbing fees or inspection costs extra?
• Request Upfront Pricing: At Sky High Plumbing, we believe in clear numbers. No hidden fees, and no mystery charges.
• Check Credentials: Always hire a licensed, insured plumber. This protects you if things get complicated.
• Ask About Insurance: For significant water damage, your homeowners’ insurance may step in. Check your policy and ask your plumber for documentation.

By the time your plumber arrives, you’ll know exactly what you’re dealing with.

Typical Price Ranges for Sink Repair

Here’s what most people pay for sink leak repairs:

• Faucet Washer/O-Ring Replacement: $100–$200 (including parts and labor)
• P-Trap or Drain Repair: $120–$350
• Supply Line Replacement: $150–$300
• Full Faucet Replacement: $250–$600 (depends on fixture style)
• Emergency Service Fees: Add $75–$300 to standard rates for after-hours calls

These are ballpark figures. If your leak is part of a bigger plumbing problem—or if there’s water damage involved—costs can rise. For commercial locations, expect higher quotes due to code requirements or specialized equipment.

DIY vs. Pro Costs: What’s Really at Stake?

There’s a reason people Google “Sink Repair near you” instead of diving in. While DIY can save money, a misstep could flood your home or business, turning a $150 fix into thousands in repairs. Licensed plumbers can:

• Spot hidden leaks
• Use specialized leak detection tools
• Replace worn or nonstandard parts
• Ensure code compliance (critical for insurance claims)

So, weigh your skills and the risk before grabbing your tools.

When Is Sink Leak Repair an Emergency? 🚨

Some leaks can wait. Others demand action—fast.

• Rapidly spreading water
• Electrical outlets or appliances near the leak
• Sewage smell or water discoloration
• Water pressure loss throughout the building

If you’re facing any of these, don’t wait. Emergency plumbing protects your property, your health, and your wallet in the long run.

What’s Included in Professional Sink Repair?

Here’s what you get when you call Sky High Plumbing:

• On-site diagnosis: Pinpointing the leak source
• Parts replacement: From washers to valves, as needed
• Labor: Removing, installing, and testing components
• Cleanup: Ensuring your kitchen or bathroom is safe and dry
• Advice: On preventing future leaks

No two jobs are quite the same, but you’ll always get a clear breakdown before work begins.

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Sink Leaks?

It depends. Insurance may help with:

• Sudden and accidental water damage (like a burst supply hose)
• Resulting structural repairs (warped cabinets, damaged drywall)
• Mold remediation (if addressed promptly)

But routine wear-and-tear, neglect, or slow leaks are usually not covered. Always document the damage and repairs, and ask your plumber for written invoices.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does sink leak repair take?

Most basic repairs take 30–90 minutes. Hidden or major leaks can require a few hours or multiple visits, especially if parts are special order or there’s significant water damage.

Can I wait to fix a small leak?

It’s tempting, but even “minor” leaks can rot cabinets, create mold, and drive up your water bill. Early action saves money and hassle.

Are commercial sink repairs more expensive?

Often, yes. Businesses may have specialized fixtures or stricter code requirements, raising both parts and labor costs.

Do I need to replace the whole sink?

Not usually. Most leaks are solved by replacing washers, supply lines, or drain components. Full sink replacement is rare unless there’s physical damage to the basin itself.

Local and Seasonal Considerations

Here’s something many forget: Sink leaks can get worse with the seasons. In winter, freezing pipes can split, especially in older homes or buildings. Summer humidity can speed up mold if leaks go unchecked. And in busy commercial kitchens, wear and tear adds up fast.

If you live in an area with hard water, mineral buildup can chew through washers and seals faster—making regular maintenance extra important.

Always check your local building codes if you’re handling repairs yourself. For homes and businesses alike, a licensed plumber will ensure compliance with the latest safety and plumbing regulations.

Whether it’s a slow drip or a sudden flood, sink leaks can’t wait. Clear pricing, licensed repairs, and no surprise bills—that’s what you get with Sky High Plumbing. Need a fast, fair quote or emergency plumbing service?

Call Sky High Plumbing now — or reach us anytime at  877-730-8216 .