How long does it take a plumber to fix a leaky toilet?

Author: Mrs. Darlene Hammes  |  Last update: Tuesday, July 29, 2025

One of the first questions homeowners ask is, “How long does it take a plumber to fix my toilet?” If you're wondering how long it will take a plumber to fix a toilet, don't worry. Often, it will be as little as an hour, or no more than two hours. Most plumbing repairs can be done yourself, if you're not too picky.

Is a leaking toilet pipe an emergency?

Your ability to control or stop the water flow may be limited, so an emergency service is required. Here are a few methods you can attempt to mitigate leaks if they are minor or as you wait for the plumber: Turning off the water supply valve behind the toilet.

What is the average cost to repair a leaky toilet?

One-piece toilet repairs fall around $50 to $200, and these toilets don't need as many repairs or maintenance. Two-piece toilets are easier to install but need more frequent repairs, which cost $50 to $250. Wall-hung toilet repairs range between $50 and $400 and could include issues with leaks in the wall.

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

Fixing a leaky faucet usually takes about an hour, assuming the problem is relatively simple, like a worn-out washer or seal. But if the entire fixture needs replacing, or if there's a larger issue at play, the process could take a few hours.

How long should it take to fix a leak?

A leaky pipe may take a few hours, while a water heater replacement can take several hours to a full day. If the issue involves sewer line work or major pipe replacements, it might take multiple days, depending on the extent of the repair.

How to Fix a Leaky Toilet | Plumbing Repairs

What is the most common reason for a leaky toilet?

An undetected toilet leak could waste as much as 5 gallons of water per minute. The most common toilet leak is caused by a deteriorated flush valve (flapper) at the bottom of the toilet tank.

Are toilet leaks covered by insurance?

If the source of the damage comes from inside your home, such as a water leak from plumbing , a broken pipe or overflowing appliance, you'll likely be covered by your homeowners insurance.

Can a plumber fix a leaky toilet?

Some of the ways a professional might address your leaking toilet includes: For loose or worn-out seals: A plumber will remove the existing seals from the base of your toilet and reapply new ones. For a damaged toilet tank: A professional can apply temporary toilet repair by applying putty and sealants.

How long does it take to fix a toilet?

One of the first questions homeowners ask is, “How long does it take a plumber to fix my toilet?” If you're wondering how long it will take a plumber to fix a toilet, don't worry. Often, it will be as little as an hour, or no more than two hours. Most plumbing repairs can be done yourself, if you're not too picky.

How much to fix a dripping toilet?

Find an approved plumber

Most repairs cost between £80 and £140, depending on the work required, so it's a worthwhile investment when a leaky loo could be costing you around £200 a year.

How urgent is a leaking toilet?

Leaking toilets are unsafe, damaging and just flat-out disgusting, so they need to be repaired as soon as possible. Here's what homeowners need to know about water leaking from under a fixture base.

Can you claim for a leaking toilet?

Water damage to your property is usually covered as a standard feature in your buildings insurance policy. Often referred to as 'escape of water' by insurers, it can be caused by several issues, from burst pipes due to freezing temperatures, to a leaking dishwasher or an overflowing blocked toilet.

Should I turn off water if toilet is leaking?

If a homeowner discovers water behind the toilet, it's crucial to first turn off the water supply to the toilet by shutting the valve.

How many years does a toilet seal last?

It ensures that when the toilet drains, all the water goes down the pipe and not under your finished floor into your subfloor. A properly installed toilet ring forms a watertight seal that can last for 30 years or more with no maintenance needed.

Why is my toilet leaking from the bottom seal?

When a toilet leaks at the base, with water pooling on your bathroom floor, it's typically due to the failure of the wax gasket that seals the toilet to the floor. This seal should make a watertight connection between the toilet and floor. A leak often means that the wax seal may need to be replaced.

Is it cheaper to fix a toilet or replace it?

Some problems require expensive, complicated repairs. If you encounter these issues frequently, scheduling a replacement will most likely be the most cost-effective solution, as you can save money.

How to tell if a toilet is leaking under tile?

If you see pooling water around your toilet's base, clean up the water and thoroughly scrub the tiles until they are clean and dry. Wait a few minutes before reevaluating the space for leakage. If the pooling water returns after you clean the area, you probably have an under-tile toilet leak.

When I flush my toilet, it fills up with water then slowly drains.?

Check your water levels

Low water levels in your tank are common causes of toilets filling up with water when flushed. They can also cause slow-draining toilets. You can manually top up your tank with water to help the flush. Then, check the flush tube for cracks and bends that lead to leaks.

How long do toilets last?

The average homeowner typically replaces their toilet every 10 to 15 years. However, when properly cared for, a toilet can last up to 50 years or longer. Toilets usually show signs that they need a repair or replacement, but some reach the end of their lifespan with little or no physical signs.

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.

How much should I charge to fix a leak?

On average, the cost of a plumber ranges from $125 to $350 for small jobs like fixing a sink, toilet, faucet, or bathtub, to $500 to $800 for major repairs, like fixing a water line. Most plumbers also charge a minimum call-out fee of $50 to $200.

Is leak sealer a permanent fix?

You may get a result from it in the short term, but it does not remove the hole, crack or gap that causes your leak. You may find that after getting some initial benefit (stopping or slowing a leak) that your leak returns.

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