Leaking Tap Repair: DIY Guide vs Calling a Plumber
23 May 2026 · Plumbers On Duty Editorial
Quick answer
Replace a tap washer in 15 minutes with R30 in parts — or know when the cartridge, seat or whole mixer needs a pro.
This guide breaks down everything South African homeowners need to know about leaking tap repair: diy guide vs calling a plumber — based on current 2026 pricing, SANS regulations, and on-the-ground advice from PIRB-registered plumbers.
Tools you'll need
- Adjustable spanner
- Pliers
- A bucket and old towels
- Replacement washers or seals (Builders / Leroy Merlin stock most common sizes)
Step by step
- Close the isolation valve under the fixture (or the main if there isn't one)
- Open the tap to release pressure
- Unscrew the handle, then the bonnet
- Replace the washer or cartridge
- Reassemble and slowly reopen the supply
When to stop and call a pro
If the seat is corroded, the thread is stripped, or water is leaking from behind the wall, stop. A plumber will charge less to fix the original problem than to undo a botched DIY.
Get a vetted quote
Use Plumbers On Duty to find PIRB-registered plumbers in your area, compare reviews, and request quotes without sharing your number publicly. Every plumber on the directory is verified before being listed.