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🔧 Scope of Works
Identify leak source – spout, cartridge, gland, tail connections or supply hoses.
Isolate hot & cold feeds (service valves or main stop-cock) and depressurise lines.
Remove handle(s)/cover caps and unscrew retaining nuts to extract cartridges, O-rings or washers.
Clean and inspect tap body seats; dress/re-seat if pitted.
Fit new rubber washer, ceramic disc cartridge or pull-out hose seals as required.
Re-grease threads, reassemble tap and tighten to manufacturer torque.
Turn water back on, purge air, check for drips through full temperature/flow range.
Wipe down sink area, reinstate under-sink storage and take away failed parts/packaging.
💷 Typical Cost (incl. VAT, 2025)
Charge type | Low £ | High £ | Notes |
Call-out / minimum | 50 | 100 | One-hour attendance; UK average £40–£60 |
Labour per hour | 40 | 90 | Typical plumber £40–£60; London premium £80–£90 |
Materials | 2 | 50 | Washers <£1; generic cartridges £12–£20; branded up to £45 |
Disposal | 0 | 10 | Small metal/rubber parts – often free recycling. |
Extras (new isolation valves, seized fixings, out-of-hours) | 10 | 60 | Only if required. |
TOTAL (most jobs come in here) | 130 | 220 | One visit, single cartridge/washer swap, no complications. |
🕓 Time on Site
30 – 60 minutes for a straightforward washer or cartridge change.
Up to 1½ – 2 hours if the tap is seized, isolation valves are missing (system drain-down), or a branded cartridge must be collected.
❓ Questions to Ask Your Tradie
Can you service the tap in situ or is replacement more economical?
Will you bring a matching cartridge/washer set, or do you need photos/model number first?
Is the price fixed or hourly after the first hour – and does it include VAT?
Are my isolation valves working, or should they be renewed while you’re here?
How long is your workmanship guarantee and what warranty covers the new parts?
Do you charge extra for evening/weekend call-outs?
Will you dispose of the old parts and leave the sink area tidy?
✅ How to Avoid Surprises
Send clear photos of the tap and any model numbers before booking.
Check the stop-cock and under-sink valves turn off fully.
Empty the cupboard for knee-space and easy access.
Reserve a parking spot or visitor permit for the plumber’s van.
Flag any water-softener, filter, pull-out spray or boiling-water add-ons that may complicate access.
Confirm if an out-of-hours uplift applies and get the call-out charge in writing.
💡 With these points you’ll know exactly what work is involved, the typical 2025 cost range, and how to keep your leaking kitchen tap repair painless and on budget.