15 Common Plumbing Problems and What They Cost to Fix
Quick Reference: All 15 Problems & Costs
| Problem | Typical Repair Cost | Urgency |
|---|---|---|
| Dripping faucet | $100-$350 | Low |
| Running toilet | $100-$300 | Low |
| Clogged drain | $150-$400 | Medium |
| Low water pressure | $150-$500 | Low |
| Leaky pipes | $200-$1,000 | High |
| Water heater failure | $200-$1,500 | High |
| Sewer line backup | $300-$5,000 | Emergency |
| Slab leak | $2,000-$6,000 | Emergency |
| Frozen pipes | $200-$2,000 | Emergency |
| Garbage disposal jam | $100-$300 | Low |
| Hose bib leak | $100-$300 | Medium |
| Toilet clog (severe) | $150-$500 | Medium |
| Pipe corrosion | $4,000-$15,000 | Medium |
| Water line leak | $500-$3,000 | High |
| Gas leak | $200-$1,000 | Emergency |
1. Dripping Faucet — $100-$350
A dripping faucet wastes up to 3,000 gallons of water per year. The most common cause is a worn-out washer, O-ring, or cartridge inside the faucet body.
What to expect: A plumber will disassemble the faucet, identify the worn component, and replace it. Most faucet repairs take 30-60 minutes. If the faucet is old or the parts are unavailable, a full faucet replacement ($200-$500) may make more sense.
2. Running Toilet — $100-$300
A constantly running toilet can waste 200+ gallons per day. The usual culprits are a faulty flapper valve, fill valve, or flush valve seal.
What to expect: Most toilet repairs involve replacing the flapper ($10-$20 part) or the fill valve assembly ($15-$30 part). A plumber charges $100-$300 for the visit and repair. This is one of the easier DIY repairs if you're comfortable with basic tools.
3. Clogged Drain — $150-$400
Slow or clogged drains are the single most common plumbing call. Kitchen drains clog from grease buildup; bathroom drains from hair and soap scum; main lines from tree root intrusion.
What to expect: A plumber will snake the drain ($150-$300) or use hydro jetting ($300-$600) for severe clogs. If you have recurring clogs, it may indicate a deeper issue like root intrusion in the sewer line.
4. Low Water Pressure — $150-$500
Low water pressure can result from corroded pipes, a faulty pressure regulator, mineral buildup, or a municipal supply issue.
What to expect: The plumber will test pressure at multiple fixtures to isolate the cause. Fixes range from cleaning aerators (free) to replacing a pressure regulator ($200-$400) to addressing pipe corrosion (which may require repiping).
5. Leaky Pipes — $200-$1,000
Pipe leaks range from minor joint weeps to catastrophic bursts. Common causes include corrosion, high water pressure, freezing, and joint failure.
What to expect: A visible leak under a sink is a quick fix ($200-$400). A leak behind a wall requires drywall removal and potentially more extensive pipe repair ($500-$1,000+). For hidden leaks, leak detection ($150-$500) may be needed first.
6. Water Heater Issues — $200-$5,400
Water heater problems include no hot water, insufficient hot water, strange noises, leaking, and discolored water. Some are repairable; others require full replacement.
What to expect: Simple repairs like thermostat or element replacement cost $200-$500. If the tank is leaking or the unit is over 10 years old, replacement ($1,200-$5,400) is usually the better investment. Read our guide on signs you need a new water heater.
7. Sewer Line Backup — $300-$5,000+
A sewer line backup is one of the most unpleasant and expensive plumbing emergencies. Signs include multiple drains backing up simultaneously, gurgling sounds, and sewage odors.
What to expect: A camera inspection ($150-$500) determines the cause. Simple clogs cost $300-$600 to clear. If tree roots have infiltrated or the pipe is damaged, sewer line repair or replacement costs $2,000-$15,000.
Bottom line: Most common plumbing problems cost under $500 to fix when caught early. The expensive ones — sewer lines, slab leaks, repipes — are the result of deferred maintenance or aging infrastructure. A home warranty can help protect against these major expenses.