Do plumbers fix leaky pipes?

Author: Brendon Steuber PhD  |  Last update: Friday, May 2, 2025

If a water pipe is leaking, you need to act quickly to prevent damage and avoid costly repairs to floors, walls and ceilings. While you'll need a plumber for a complete repair, we'll show you how to fix a leaking pipe with temporary measures to minimize damage until a professional can arrive.

What is the average cost to fix a leaking pipe?

On average, pipe leak repairs cost $500, though prices can run between $250 and $850 depending on the type and location of the leak and the type of pipe.

Can a plumber fix a water leak?

Trust a plumber to identify the cause of the water damage or a burst pipe and make any necessary repairs. Plumbers have the necessary expertise to install pipes and plumbing fixtures, replace damaged pipes, maintain sewage tanks, review building plans and codes and weld pipes.

Who is responsible for a leaking water pipe?

You are responsible for the drains, water pipes and plumbing fixtures on your property. You are also responsible for ensuring that the plumbing in your property conforms to the required standards.

Can you fix a leaky pipe without replacing the pipe?

Yes, compound sticks, also known as repair sticks or epoxy sticks, can effectively and temporarily seal leaky pipes. They are easy to apply – simply wet the pipe and knead the stick until soft, then apply it to the leak area. Most compound sticks harden within 20-30 minutes, providing a temporary watertight seal.

The ULTIMATE Leaky Copper Pipe Fix Guide | GOT2LEARN

Can a handyman fix a leaky pipe?

Minor issues: For slight plumbing problems such as changing a faucet, repairing a sink's leaky pipe, or clearing out clogged drainages, it is recommended to hire a handyman plumber.

How much does a plumber cost?

Average Flat Rate

Some plumbing jobs are billed at a flat rate. As of 2025, the average plumber rates for larger repairs are typically between $500 to $800, while smaller jobs like repairing toilets, sinks, faucets, or bathtubs typically range from $125 to $350.

Does homeowners insurance cover leaky pipes?

Homeowners insurance typically covers losses resulting from a sudden malfunction, such as a pipe bursting unexpectedly. However, a homeowners policy won't cover slow, constant leaks or other plumbing problems resulting from neglect or improper maintenance.

Do you call a plumber for a leak?

Smaller, slower leaks don't often constitute emergencies, but if you're not skilled in the art of pipe repair, you should contact a plumbing professional as soon as possible. Small leaks in pipes can become big leaks in pipes in shockingly short periods of time, so don't wait to call about a pipe problem.

Do water companies charge for leaks?

Any leaks after the meter is the homeowner's responsibility. If your water bill is increasing, that means that water is flowing through the meter before it gets to the leak. Most water utility companies will charge a fee if they have to send someone out and the leak ends up being on your side of the meter.

Who to call for a leaking pipe?

Once you find the water leak, we recommend calling a licensed plumber in your area to repair or replace the damaged pipe.

Do plumbers deal with leaks?

Plumbers are experts when it comes to water leaks. They'll usually have a range of different equipment and techniques that they can use to detect water leaks in your house.

How long does it take for a plumber to fix a water leak?

Typically, fixing a burst pipe takes anywhere from a few hours to a couple of days. Factors like damage severity, pipe accessibility, and material type affect the time needed.

Can a leaking pipe stop leaking on its own?

A leaking pipe can mean many things. It could mean an expensive visit from the plumber, a satisfying DIY repair project, or the start of a counterintuitive physics puzzle. Recent experiments discovered that a leak from a small hole in a vertical pipe can sometimes stop spontaneously.

Can plumbers fix water leaks?

Your plumber will use moisture meters or infrared cameras to pinpoint the leak's location in your walls. From there, they may cut into your wall to get to the problem areas. Commonly, leaks can be fixed by repairing holes or cracks in pipes. In some cases, you might need your pipes or fittings replaced.

How much does a plumber charge to replace a valve?

The average cost to replace a main water shut-off valve is $500, but most homeowners pay between $375 and $600 for the service.

How do plumbers find leaking pipes?

Expert pipe locators and water leak detectors attend residential and commercial premises to inspect and test with advanced leak detection equipment such as underground pipe locators, Hydrogen tracer gas, acoustic systems, thermal imaging and inspection cameras. Leak detection for plumbers with tracer gas.

Who pays for leaking pipes?

Most buildings insurance policies cover the cost of repairs due to pipes bursting or water leaking. Check the terms and conditions because if you leave a property empty and damage occurs, you might not be covered for this loss.

Do plumbers fix outside pipes?

Whether you have a garage, shed, summerhouse or need a water feature added our plumbers can help. We deal with all types of outdoor plumbing, 365 days a year. So, whether you need a sprinkler installed professionally, or the plumbing in your outhouse has stopped working efficiently, our plumbers can help.

Will insurance pay to repipe a house?

It just depends. Insurance policies may cover repiping if there is significant damage due to a fire or natural disaster. If there is extremely cold winter weather and your pipes freeze and then burst, your insurance policy may cover related expenses, but not always.

How do I make a successful water leak insurance claim?

7 Tips when Filing a Home Insurance Claim for Water Damage
  1. Step 1: Determine the Source of the Water. ...
  2. Step 3: Call your Insurance Agent. ...
  3. Step 4: Get the water and moisture professionally removed. ...
  4. Step 5: Determine if you can remain in your home. ...
  5. Step 6: Take photos of the damaged area. ...
  6. Step 7: Contact an Adjuster or Lawyer.

Does homeowners insurance go up after a claim?

After you file a home insurance claim, it's possible that your premium will increase when your policy renews. If you file one claim, your insurance company may see you as likely to file another in the future. To offset the cost of that potential claim, your insurance company may charge you more for your policy.

Why do plumbers charge so much per hour?

The complexity of the job is one of the main drivers for hourly rates. A more complicated project will require more time and expertise from a plumbing contractor, which can lead to higher rates. The experience level of the plumber is also important.

What is considered a plumbing emergency?

It's an emergency if: The wetness is quickly accumulating or escalating but you cannot visibly see the source of the water. This could mean you have a burst pipe in the wall or under the floor.

How much does it cost to fix a leaking pipe under a sink?

The average pipe leak repair can cost between $250 to $500, although major leaks, with resulting damage, can cost considerably more.

Previous article
Why won't my furnace heat up past 67 degrees?
Next article
Is it better to pour vinegar or bleach down AC drain?