Do I need to buy the new fixture myself?

Either works. Some plumbers will supply and install for a markup, others prefer you buy the fixture so you get exactly the model you want, then they handle the install.

Why did my simple repair turn into a bigger job?

Often the shutoff valve or supply line is old and seizes or leaks once touched, which means it needs replacing too. This is common in houses over 15-20 years old.

Can a leaking faucet always be repaired instead of replaced?

Usually yes if it's a cartridge or washer issue. If the faucet body itself is cracked or the finish is worn through, replacement is the better long-term fix.

New fixture installation vs fixing an existing one

Buyers often aren't sure which category their job falls into: fixing a leaking or malfunctioning fixture in place, versus installing a new one (a different faucet, toilet, or shutoff valve than what's currently there). The two jobs have different scope and different things a plumber checks first.

Repair: fixing a leak at a supply line, replacing a worn cartridge or washer, resealing a toilet base, patching a pinhole leak in copper pipe
Install: swapping in a new faucet, toilet, or fixture, which may involve matching new supply lines, checking for rough-in compatibility, and disposing of the old unit
Mixed jobs: sometimes what looks like a simple repair turns into a replacement once a plumber sees corrosion or a part that's no longer made

Telling the plumber upfront whether you have the new fixture already, or need them to supply it, speeds up the quote.

What it costs

A same-fixture repair (new cartridge, washer, or wax ring) is usually a shorter job than a full swap-out install, which involves disconnecting and removing the old fixture, checking for corrosion on shutoff valves, and connecting new supply lines. Cost rises if old shutoff valves need replacing too, which is common in older homes where valves haven't been touched in years.

Top 3 by our score

Ranked from our published scoring of public Google reviews for leak detection & pipe repair.

1. True Service Plumbing
5.0★ · 1220 reviews

95
2. Advanced Plumbing & Drains
5.0★ · 558 reviews

95
3. Top One Plumbing Inc.
5.0★ · 383 reviews

95

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FAQ

Do I need to buy the new fixture myself?: Either works. Some plumbers will supply and install for a markup, others prefer you buy the fixture so you get exactly the model you want, then they handle the install.
Why did my simple repair turn into a bigger job?: Often the shutoff valve or supply line is old and seizes or leaks once touched, which means it needs replacing too. This is common in houses over 15-20 years old.
Can a leaking faucet always be repaired instead of replaced?: Usually yes if it's a cartridge or washer issue. If the faucet body itself is cracked or the finish is worn through, replacement is the better long-term fix.

When you submit a quote or contact form through this site, your enquiry may be shared with partner providers who can do the work. We may receive a referral fee for these matches, but our rankings and scores are determined solely by our published scoring method and are never influenced by referral fees.