How much does it cost to fix a dripping tap in Exmouth?

A straightforward washer or cartridge replacement typically costs £60 to £120 in the Exmouth area, including the part and labour. The exact cost depends on the tap type and how accessible it is. If the tap body is corroded and needs replacing entirely, expect to pay £100 to £250 for a new tap supplied and fitted.

Can I fix a dripping tap myself?

Yes, if you are comfortable with basic DIY. Replacing a washer or cartridge is a common DIY job. You will need to turn off the water supply first (via the isolation valve under the sink or the main stopcock), then disassemble the tap to access the worn part. Our dripping tap guide walks you through the steps. If you are unsure or the tap is old and fragile, calling a plumber avoids the risk of a bigger problem.

Should I repair my tap or replace it?

Repair if the tap body is in good condition and replacement parts are available — this is usually much cheaper. Replace if the tap is corroded, cracked, very old (parts unavailable), or if you want to upgrade the style. A plumber can advise after inspecting the tap.

How long does it take a plumber to replace a tap?

A straightforward like-for-like tap replacement typically takes 30 minutes to one hour. If the existing isolation valves are seized or missing and need replacing, or if the pipework needs modifying, it can take up to two hours.

Do I need a plumber to fit a kitchen tap?

You do not legally need a plumber — tap fitting is not regulated work like gas installations. However, a plumber will ensure the connections are watertight, the tap is properly seated and any isolation valves are fitted correctly. Poor DIY tap fitting is a common cause of leaks under kitchen sinks.

How much does it cost to install an outside tap?

An outside garden tap installation in Exmouth typically costs £120 to £250. This includes drilling through the exterior wall, running a short pipe from the nearest internal supply, fitting an isolation valve and installing a frost-proof or standard outside tap. A frost-proof tap is recommended to avoid burst pipes in winter.

Why does my tap keep dripping after I replaced the washer?

The most likely cause is a damaged valve seat — the brass surface the washer presses against inside the tap body. If the seat is scored or pitted, a new washer cannot form a watertight seal. A plumber can re-grind (reface) the seat or replace the entire tap if the damage is too severe.

Tap Repair & Replacement in Exmouth

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Common Tap Problems

These are the most common tap issues reported by homeowners in Exmouth and East Devon. Some are quick fixes — others need a plumber.

Dripping tap

The most common tap problem. A constant drip from the spout usually means the internal washer or ceramic disc cartridge has worn out. A single dripping tap can waste over 5,000 litres of water a year and add noticeably to your South West Water bill.

Stiff or hard to turn

Taps that are difficult to turn on or off usually have worn or corroded internal parts. Forcing them risks snapping the spindle or cracking the tap body. A plumber can replace the cartridge or valve to restore smooth operation.

Low flow or poor pressure

If one tap has noticeably weaker flow than others, the aerator (the small mesh filter at the end of the spout) may be blocked with limescale. Exmouth has moderately hard water, so this is a common issue. Cleaning or replacing the aerator often fixes it immediately.

Leaking from the base or handle

Water seeping around the base of the tap or from under the handle usually points to a worn O-ring or a failed seal. Left unrepaired, this can damage the worktop or sink surround and cause damp in the cabinet below.

Noisy or hammering pipes

A loud banging or vibrating noise when you turn a tap on or off is called water hammer. It is caused by a sudden change in water pressure and can be fixed with a water hammer arrestor or by adjusting the tap valve.

Mixing valve problems

Mixer taps that cannot hold a steady temperature or only deliver hot or cold water usually have a faulty cartridge. Thermostatic mixer cartridges are especially prone to limescale build-up in hard water areas like Exmouth.

Types of Tap and How They Work

Understanding which type of tap you have helps you (or your plumber) diagnose the problem and source the right replacement parts.

Traditional Washer Taps

Found in many older Exmouth homes. They use a rubber washer that compresses against a brass seat to stop water flow. Washers wear out over time and are cheap to replace (under £5 for the part), but the tap needs disassembling. These are the classic taps that require multiple turns to open and close.

Ceramic Disc Taps

The most common modern tap type. Two ceramic discs rotate against each other to control water flow — they open with a quarter-turn. More durable than washers but the cartridge costs more to replace (£15 to £40 for the part). Popular in Exmouth new-builds and bathroom refits.

Mixer Taps

A single unit that blends hot and cold water through one spout. Controlled by a lever or knob. The internal cartridge handles both temperature mixing and flow control. Cartridge replacement is the most common repair and costs vary depending on the tap brand.

Thermostatic Mixer Taps

Found in showers and some kitchen taps. They maintain a set temperature automatically using a thermostatic element. These are more complex and the thermostatic cartridge can seize or fail, especially in hard water areas. Replacement cartridges can be expensive (£30 to £80).

Repair vs Replace vs New Installation

Not sure what your tap needs? Here is a quick comparison to help you decide.

Repair

£60–£150

Replacing a worn washer or ceramic disc
Fitting a new O-ring to stop base leaks
Cleaning or replacing a blocked aerator
Replacing a cartridge in a mixer tap
Fixing a stiff or seized spindle

Replace (like-for-like)

£100–£250

Tap body corroded or cracked
Parts no longer available for older taps
Upgrading from separate taps to a mixer
Cosmetic upgrade to match a new kitchen or bathroom
Uses existing pipework and tap holes

New Installation

£150–£400

Adding a tap where there is not one (e.g. utility room)
Moving tap position during a kitchen refit
Installing an outside garden tap
New pipework run required
May need isolation valves fitted

Tap Repair & Replacement Costs in Exmouth

Typical prices for tap repairs and installations in the Exmouth area for 2026. For a full breakdown of plumbing rates, see our plumber costs guide.

Service	Typical Cost
Replace a tap washer	£60–£90
Replace a tap cartridge (ceramic disc)	£70–£120
Fix a leaking tap base (O-ring replacement)	£60–£100
Replace a single tap (like-for-like)	£100–£180
Replace a pair of bath or basin taps	£120–£250
Install a kitchen mixer tap	£100–£200
Install an outside garden tap	£120–£250
Fit isolation valves under a sink	£60–£120

Prices are estimates for 2026. Always get a written quote before work begins.

Tap Repair & Replacement FAQs

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Want to try fixing it yourself first? Read our step-by-step dripping tap guide. Got low flow? See our water pressure guide. Not sure what's wrong? Try our diagnosis tool. For urgent leaks, see our emergency plumber page.