A dripping tap isn't just annoying — a single leak can waste hundreds of litres of water a year and leave ugly stains on your sink. The good news is that most leaks come from a worn washer or cartridge, and you can often fix it yourself with a couple of basic tools.
Why taps leak
The most common cause is a worn-out rubber washer or ceramic cartridge inside the tap. Every time you turn the tap on and off, these parts wear a little. Eventually they can no longer form a watertight seal and water seeps through. Hard water — common across London — speeds this up by leaving limescale that damages the seals.
What you'll need
An adjustable spanner, a flat-head screwdriver, a cloth to protect the chrome, and a replacement washer or cartridge (take the old one to a DIY store to match it). Most importantly, turn off the water first.
Step 1: Turn off the water
Find the isolation valve for the tap — usually under the sink — and turn it off. If there isn't one, turn off the main stopcock. Open the tap to drain any remaining water.
Step 2: Remove the tap handle
Pop off the cap on the handle (often hiding a screw) and unscrew it. Lift off the handle to reveal the valve. Wrap a cloth around the chrome to avoid scratching it with your spanner.
Step 3: Replace the washer or cartridge
For a traditional two-tap setup, unscrew the valve and swap the washer at the base. For modern lever taps, you'll usually replace the whole cartridge. Reassemble in reverse order.
Step 4: Test it
Turn the water back on and check for leaks — both at the spout and around the base. If the drip has stopped, you're done.
When to call a plumber
Call a professional if: the tap is a sealed monobloc you can't open; the leak is from the base or pipework rather than the spout; the valve is seized; or you'd simply rather not risk it. A botched DIY repair can crack the basin or strip the thread, turning a small job into an expensive one.
Goodman Plumbing repairs and replaces taps of every type across London. If your tap won't stop dripping, get in touch and we'll sort it quickly.