How much does Sink repair cost?

Kitchen and bathroom sinks are countertop workhorses that eventually break, chip, clog, leak, or fall out of service. Because sinks are central to kitchen and bathroom activities, it’s critical to restore their functionality as soon as possible. 

This guides explains the cost of hiring a professional plumber to fix common sink repair issues. Pricing information is based on quotes provided to consumers by plumbing businesses on Yelp, along with trusted industry data. Learn more in the methodology section at the end of the guide.

The cost of sink repair is typically $185, according to Yelp data. Repair costs can range from $135–265, depending on the type of repair needed, the complexity of the problem, and location.

Minor repairs can be handled by a handyperson for $40–80 per hour plus materials. Examples of jobs they can do include buffing out scratches on a stainless steel sink, repairing minor scratches in porcelain with a DIY scratch-repair kit, and caulking around the perimeter of a sink. Any of these jobs should take about 1–2 hours.

For sink repairs, plumbers typically charge $148 per hour, according to Yelp data. Hourly rates can range from $85–230, depending on location. For example, sink repair rates are typically about $93 per hour in Houston, but in Brooklyn, New York, the typical rate is much higher: $302 per hour. 

For simple sink repairs, such as unclogging a drain or replacing faucet parts, one hour of a plumber’s time is usually enough. More complex tasks, like replacing a sink, might take 3–4 hours. At $148 per hour, the total bill for sink replacement could exceed $400 (not including the new sink cost, which can run $90–3,000, depending on the model). 

Keep in mind that the cost of replacement parts, like a new faucet cartridge (which controls water flow), is typically added to a plumber’s bill. As a result, your final bill is likely to be more than the initial quote.

For sink repairs and other plumbing jobs, some plumbers charge a “service-call fee” to come to your home—typically $50–120. This fee covers time and travel if you don’t hire them. It’s usually deducted from the plumber’s bill if you hire them to do the work.  

For common sink services like drain clearing, some plumbers charge flat rates. “I’d say 90+ percent of our jobs are flat rate,” says Patrick Finegan, owner of Drain-EEZ Plumbing in Chicago. “This is the cost, this is what it’s going to take. Nothing changes.” 

“Our flat rate for drain clearing is about $350, but truth is, we can work with customers on that,” Finegan adds. “For example, right now we’re offering a $49 discount for Yelpers. We don’t charge to look at the problem. Once we start pulling out tools and taking things apart, then we have to charge.”  

Here’s a breakdown of typical costs for several of the most common sink repairs.

Typical cost: $185

Cost range: $125–245

Simple clogs in sink drain traps are commonly cleared by homeowners with a plunger or by handypeople dissembling the trap and flushing it out with a garden hose outside. Deeper clogs further down the drain line will need to be cleared by a plumber. The cost of repair typically includes labor and materials (such as industrial-strength drain cleaners).

Typical cost: $195

Cost range: $135–275

Depending upon what’s leaking, sink leaks can waste water or cause damage to cabinets and flooring. Repair costs cover fixing the leaky sink—which could be an issue with the faucet, pipes, or connections beneath the sink—or the sink drain. The repair may require new gaskets, O-rings, strainer, shutoff valve, or even replacement pipes or a drainpipe. In addition to the repair cost, you can expect to pay $30–80 for materials.

Typical cost: $220

Cost range: $135–330

The cost to repair a broken or cracked sink depends on the severity of the damage. Hairline cracks or small chips in a composite or porcelain sink can often be patched by a sink crack-and-chip repair specialist at a relatively low cost. More extensive damage may require sink replacement. DIY porcelain repair kits are also available at hardware stores and home improvement centers for under $25—some are color matched, but most are white. These can be used for very minor repairs—either as a DIY project or by hiring a handyperson.

These repairs are related to a sink’s functionality, rather than the sink itself.

Typical cost range: $100–350

The cost of faucet repair depends upon the type of faucet and the parts needed. For a low-cost economy faucet, it’s often better to just replace the faucet unless the fix is very simple.  

Typical cost range: $85–187

The cost to fix low water pressure depends on the underlying cause. It may require replacing faucet parts, adjusting under-sink shut-off valves or the home’s water pressure regulator, or addressing more serious water-supply issues, such as a build-up of mineral deposits in supply pipes or the hot water heater, both of which can greatly increase repair costs. For serious issues like clogged pipes, ask the plumber to provide a bid for repiping.

Typical cost range: $85–300

The costs for other common sink repairs, such as addressing foul odors, slow drainage, or clogged garbage disposals depends on the specific problem and the materials required for repair. A simple job like caulking around a sink can be handled by a handyperson for $40–80 per hour plus about $10 for silicone caulk. Various small repairs that require a plumber typically cost $85–300. 

The type of kitchen sink or bathroom sink you have can have a small impact on repair costs. 

A sink’s material affects the cost of repairing cracks, chips, and other damages.  

Sinks made of ceramic are less prone to damage. Small chips and scratches can be repaired with a 2-part epoxy adhesive; cracks in the glaze can be fixed with porcelain touch-up pens. A handyperson can do these jobs for $40–80 per hour plus less than $20 in materials, totalling about $50–150 in most cases. Consult a plumber for larger repairs—it may be necessary to replace the sink. 

Commonly used in utility areas, PVC sinks are usually easy to repair. A handyperson or a plumber can handle most repairs using PVC cement at a typical cost of $50–150. Ask your plumber to bid on the cost of replacement, as that might be less expensive.

Stainless steel is durable and resistant to corrosion and damage. Most stainless steel sink repairs involve buffing out scratches with very-fine-grit sandpaper. A handyperson can do this for $75–150. For an older sink in bad shape, consider replacing it for $500–800.

Fiberglass sinks are lightweight and generally budget-friendly. Repairing them is a relatively straightforward process of cleaning, sanding, and applying a fiberglass repair resin. This can often be handled by a handyperson. Expect to pay between $75–200 for fiberglass sink repairs. For more extensive repairs, sink replacement might be more economical.

Repairs for durable and long-lasting composite sinks are similar to fiberglass, except that you’ll need a specific composite repair kit. Depending on complexity, costs may range from $100–300. You can also ask your plumber to bid on the cost of replacing the sink.

Sinks made of porcelain are susceptible to chipping and cracking. Repairing very small issues can be handled by a DIY homeowner or handyperson, using porcelain touch-up paint. Larger epoxy repairs usually require a skilled porcelain repair or refinishing specialist for a cost of $300–600. Since a new porcelain sink can cost as little as $80, replacement may bemore cost-effective than repair. 

Here are some other issues that can affect how much it will cost to have your sink repaired. 

Where you live can significantly affect the price of sink repair. Costs typically range from $165 per repair in the Los Angeles area to $200 in and around New York City to $225 in the San Francisco Bay Area, according to Yelp data. These variations are due to regional differences in labor rates, travel, and market competition.

Solving complex problems takes more time, increasing the cost of sink repairs. If a plumber must thoroughly investigate the issue and potentially disassemble components, repairs will take longer and cost more. 

The cost and quality of replacement parts (such as drain assemblies) can vary considerably. Finding compatible parts for older faucets can also be challenging and more costly. While higher-quality replacement parts cost more, plumbers recommend them for durability and reliability, potentially saving you money in the long run. 

Got a weekend, holiday, or after-hours emergency plumbing repair? Plumbers typically charge as much as twice their regular rates during those times. Those in high-demand may even charge a premium during the regular workday. Always try to schedule non-urgent repairs on a weekday, during normal business hours.

You may be able to reduce your project costs for sink repairs with the following tips.

If you’re handy with tools, consider tackling minor plumbing repairs—like small cracks and chips—yourself using sink repair kits, epoxy filler, or touch-up paint. These repair kits are affordable and can be effective for small issues. You can find everything you need at home improvement stores. 

Prevent problems by taking care of your sink. Avoid washing large or leafy objects down the drain or disposal, clean your sink regularly, and fix minor issues promptly. Flush the kitchen sink with hot water once a week to help keep its drain clear. Avoid letting hair go down bathroom sink drains. If sinks begin to drain slowly, call a drain service. 

Be sure to keep the silicone seal around your sinks in good condition. If water seeps down into the countertop or cabinets, it can cause serious damage to the structure.

If you opt for professional repair, choose a plumber who you know and trust, or find a local plumber with good reviews on Yelp. Ask for specifics on their service area, and whether there will be any fees for travel to your home. For a big job, like replacing an expensive sink, obtain quotes from multiple local plumbers to find the most competitive price. Also be aware that some local plumbers offer specials or discounts.

Make the repair site as accessible as possible—clear away rugs or floor mats and unnecessary clutter, including everything on the sink top and the adjoining countertop. Also, clear out the under-sink cabinet, as many repairs involve accessing the area under the sink. This will save labor time. 

Some local plumbers may offer discounts to new customers, senior citizens, and military vets. Or they may have online coupons or seasonal specials. Be sure to check their Yelp Business Page for deals, too. For example, Drain-EEZ Plumbing in Chicago currently offers $49 off for Yelpers.

If a handyperson has experience unclogging drains or fixing faucets, your total project cost may be lower than hiring a plumber. A handyman service typically charges $40–80 per hour, plus the cost of materials. 

Tackling a DIY sink repair project may save money, but it also depends on the complexity of the repair and your experience. Simple issues like minor clogs or changing a washer can usually be handled successfully by a confident DIYer. For more complex problems, like major leaks, it’s best to hire a professional plumber. 

For cracks and chip repair, seek out a qualified sink repair or refinishing specialist. A professional can efficiently diagnose the issue, provide expert solutions, and ensure the repair is done correctly the first time, potentially avoiding costly mistakes down the road.

When interviewing a plumber for sink repairs, ask about their qualifications and customer-service practices. The following information is often available on the pro’s Yelp Business Page:

Questions about the business 

Questions about repair costs:

How much does a plumber charge to repair a sink?

According to Yelp data, the cost to repair a sink is typically $185. That price can range from $135–265, depending upon the type of sink and the problem and your location. It usually takes a plumber 1–2 hours to repair a sink.

How much does a sink replacement cost?

The typical labor cost for a basic sink installation is $215–590, according to Yelp data. To calculate the total cost of installing a new sink, add the sink price—which may range from $200–1,500—to the plumber’s labor costs. 

How much does it cost to repair a sink faucet?

To repair a faucet, it’ll cost between $100–350, depending on the faucet type. In most cases, you’ll pay for an hour of the plumber’s time, plus the cost of the faucet and parts. 

Find a sink repair professional in your area.

Cost data in this guide is based on project quote estimates provided to Yelp users by licensed professionals and businesses on Yelp (as well as analysis of industry data). Actual project costs may vary depending on location or complexity of the project. Cost data has been reviewed by our industry expert, Don Vandervort, a nationally known home improvement author. Don is the founder of the website HomeTips.com and has written or produced more than 30 home improvement books.