How much does Toilet repair cost?

Is your toilet clogged, running, cracked, or leaking? A properly functioning toilet is essential, and the best way to get it fixed quickly and correctly is by calling a licensed professional plumber. The cost to hire a pro for toilet repair will depend on the type of problem, severity of damage, and a variety of other factors. 

This guide explains the costs to fix common toilet repair issues. Pricing data is based on estimated project costs provided to Yelp users by plumbing businesses on Yelp, and industry research. Learn more in the methodology section at the end of the guide. 

The typical cost to repair a toilet is $190, according to estimates quoted by Yelp pros on real-life projects. However, the price could range from $140–270 (including parts and labor), depending on the type and complexity of the repair and homeowner location. 

Most common repairs involve replacing inexpensive parts in the toilet tank. “Ninety percent of the time, we’re called to fix flappers that are leaking or a fill valve that’s running,” says master plumber Steve Hutkin, owner of Advantage Plumbing & Rooter in Montrose, California. 

“On a normal toilet like an American Standard, the cost would be $120 for the one-hour service call plus parts, so you’re looking at $165,” Advantage Plumbing & Rooter’s Hutkin adds. “Other types of toilets may have more expensive parts.” (Read more about how these parts work below.)

When making toilet repairs, plumbers charge a typical hourly rate of $148 across the US. Hourly fees, however, range from $85–230, depending on location, according to Yelp data, and can be even higher in some areas. For example, average hourly rates for toilet repairs range from $93 in Houston to $302 per hour in Brooklyn, New York, according to Yelp quotes. 

One hour generally covers most minor toilet repairs, such as:

More complex toilet repairs, such as fixing a leaky toilet, could take 3–4 hours. At the typical hourly rate of $148 plus parts, the total cost could exceed $400. Complex jobs that typically take longer than 1 hour include:

The cost of replacement parts, such as a toilet flapper, is generally added to the hourly rate. So your total price may be higher than a plumber’s hourly quote. 

Some plumbers quote what they call a “service-call fee” for their initial visit. That’s the basic charge to come to your home—typically $50–120. This fee covers time and travel in the event that they’re not hired for your job. “If we come out and we don’t do any work, we charge $85,” says Patrick Finnegan, the owner of Drain-EEZ Plumbing in Chicago. If a plumber does handle the toilet repair, this fee is usually deducted from the plumber’s hourly rate charges.  

Some plumbers charge flat rates for common plumbing services like toilet repairs or drain clearing. “I’d say more than 90 percent of our jobs are flat rate for something like toilet repair. This is the cost, this is what it’s going to take to do it. Nothing changes here,” says Finnegan of Drain-EEZ Plumbing. 

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

Some types of toilet problems are faster and easier to repair than others. While some toilet problems can be resolved during the initial service call, others may require a second visit—often to replace parts that have to be ordered—which can increase the expense. 

Here’s a look at typical toilet repair costs, based on common problems.

The price of clearing a clog depends on the type and location of the blockage. Some clogs are local, meaning they’re in the toilet itself. Other blockages may be further down the drain line and can be caused by tree roots or broken sewer pipes.

Plumber estimates for unclogging a toilet range from $120–275, according to Yelp data. Easy “local” clogs can often be cleared by a homeowner with a plunger—or during a one-hour service call by a pro. More complex clogs can cost $400 or more to fix. For example, a plumber will typically clear blockages in the main line to the sewer (such as those caused by tree roots) with a motorized drain auger for $120–400. The deeper the clog is in the system, the higher the price.

Toilet leaks are a serious issue that can damage your floor. The price to repair a leak depends on the defective part (or toilet) to be replaced. Plumbers’ estimates provided to consumers through Yelp range from $125–275 to fix a leak or $185–400 for new toilet installation.

Here’s the cost of common toilet leak repairs, based on industry averages:

A running toilet is most commonly caused by tank parts that need to be adjusted, a worn-out fill valve (which refills water in the tank), or an improperly sealing flapper and flush valve (which let tank water into the bowl). These are simple repairs that are often covered by a service call, plus the cost of parts.

According to Yelp data, plumber quotes to fix a running toilet range from $145–270. This includes parts and labor to adjust or replace tank parts, such as a flapper or flush valve.

Running toilets continuously (and often silently) leak water from the tank to the bowl, resulting in costly wasted water. “A lot of people don’t realize water is running until they get a high water bill,” says Hutkin. “The first thing we tell them is to check their toilet to see if it’s running or leaving a line or a residual mark inside the bowl.” 

Other malfunctioning parts of the toilet’s water system—a defective fill valve, old or improperly adjusted shutoff valve, or defective supply tube—may be causing a slow fill. This can often be resolved in an hour during a service call. The cost for a plumber to repair a slow-filling tank, which involves adjusting or replacing the fill valve or shut-off valve, ranges from $85–230, plus parts.

When there’s not enough water to flush properly or the tank fills too slowly, the problem may be a malfunctioning flapper valve or fill valve. This repair can often be covered in an hour by a service-call visit. The cost to adjust a flush lever, flapper, chain, fill valve, and other tank parts: $85–230, according to Yelp data, plus $8–30 for parts.

Calcium buildup in the toilet itself can also cause a weak flush, says Hutkin—especially with toilets more than 15 years old. In this case, toilet replacement is often the solution. According to Yelp data, you’ll typically pay $185–485 to replace a toilet. 

When there’s less water in the bowl than usual, it’s typically caused by mineral buildup that clogs inlets to the bowl or a defective fill valve. Fixing a low water level can usually be covered by a service-call fee or an hour of labor at the plumber’s rate (typically $85–230). The plumber will adjust or replace the fill valve or dissolve the minerals with a chemical cleaner like CLR (calcium, limescale, and rust remover).

A “phantom flush” is when the toilet randomly refills without being flushed. Fixing the problem—typically by replacing the flush valve and flapper or the fill valve—can be covered by a service call fee or an hour of labor at the plumber’s rate (typically $85–230), plus $8–30 for parts. When these parts are malfunctioning, water may leak slowly into the bowl from the tank. As the water enters the bowl, the fill valve periodically replenishes the water in the tank, resulting in the sound of a flush. 

Toilet parts can wear out or malfunction. The parts themselves are usually inexpensive, costing less than $30 typically. But to fix or replace them, you’ll also pay $85–230 for an hour of the plumber’s time. Some repairs, like replacing a fill valve, are easy enough for a handy homeowner to make. Other repairs, such as replacing a flange or wax ring, are more complex and require the services of a professional. 

Here’s what you’ll typically pay for parts and labor, based on industry averages:

Replacement parts for a toilet’s flushing and filling mechanisms, such as fill valves, flush valves, flappers, shutoff valves, and water-supply lines, are commonly available at local home-improvement centers for less than $30—although some higher-end parts, like uncommon flush valves, can cost as much as $200. Nearly all are designed for DIY installation by handy homeowners. A plumber will typically replace these parts for a basic service-call fee.

The toilet flange secures the toilet to the floor and connects it to the drain pipe, while the toilet wax ring seals the connection. These are crucial for preventing leaks at the base of the toilet. Toilet flange repair or wax ring replacement usually costs $225–450. This charge is mostly for labor—the parts cost just $5–25—but it’s a time-consuming repair that includes removing and re-installing the toilet. This is best handled by a professional plumber. “I usually charge $225 to pull and reset the toilet, including the new wax ring,” says Hutkin.

If your old toilet is cracked, broken, or clogged due to long-term buildup of mineral deposits—or if replacement parts are no longer available—you’ll need to replace it. That costs $285–485+ for a standard toilet—or more for a high-efficiency or dual-flush toilet. 

A new toilet seat can cost $20–140 at a big-box store or home improvement center, depending on the type and brand. Replacing it is an easy DIY project, unless the seat bolts are rusted. If a plumber does the job, you’ll pay a $85–230 for labor, plus the cost of the seat. 

A new toilet flush handle costs $8–20, depending on the brand (be sure to get one that’s right for your toilet tank). A handle can break or become defective over time. A handy homeowner can easily replace this part. Or hire a professional handyperson to do the work, ranging from $40–80 per hour according to industry estimates, plus the cost of the handle.

A pressure-assist toilet creates a strong flush with less water. It relies on internal parts that are different from—and more expensive than—those of conventional gravity-flush fixtures. The average cost for a pressure-assist replacement unit is $150–200, plus a labor charge of $85–230 per hour. Replacement will take at least 2 hours. 

Several factors can increase the average range of toilet repair costs.

Your geographic area can affect toilet-repair pricing. Rates tend to be higher in major cities than in rural or less expensive regions. The cost to repair a toilet is typically $180 in Washington, DC but $249 in the Chicago area.

Diagnosing and resolving complex problems takes more time, increasing the cost of toilet repairs. If a plumber must thoroughly investigate the issue and potentially disassemble components (such as removing the toilet from the floor), repairs will take longer and cost more. 

Standard toilets are generally less expensive to repair than specialized or high-end models, such as eco-friendly toilets. That’s because their replacement parts are easier to obtain, and plumbers are more familiar with common fixtures. 

The cost and quality of replacement parts for toilet repairs can vary considerably. Finding compatible parts for older toilets, for example, can be challenging and more costly. Also, higher-quality replacement parts cost more—but plumbers recommend them for their durability and reliability, potentially saving you money in the long run. 

Weekend, holiday, and nighttime hourly rates tend to be 1.5–2 times higher than regular rates. And because plumbers typically have tightly scheduled workdays, they may charge a similar premium to come right away for an emergency plumbing repair. If your plumber charges more for off-hours visits, schedule non-urgent repairs on a weekday, during normal business hours, if possible.

To reduce project costs for toilet repairs, consider this cost-effective advice.

Hire a local plumber, if possible, to minimize travel time. Ask for specifics on their service area, and whether there will be any fees for travel to your home. If their main office is more than a few miles away, travel time might not be included in their service fee.

Make the repair site as accessible as possible—clear away obstacles such as over-the-toilet shelving, rugs, or unnecessary clutter stored around the toilet area. This will save labor time. 

To be sure you’re choosing a plumber who can do the work properly and at a fair price, check their reviews on Yelp. A good plumber might also share money-saving tips, and some offer specials or discounts. 

Should you tackle basic toilet repairs yourself or hire a professional plumber? DIY repairs can save money, but you should be comfortable with basic plumbing tasks and have the necessary tools and knowledge. If you’re keen on DIY toilet repair, these are the easiest tasks you might tackle:

Some issues, however, are best left to the experts. If you decide to hire a pro, do some research to find a reliable plumber in your area, and be sure to ask the right questions in advance, so there are no surprises.

When interviewing a plumber for toilet 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 it cost to fix a toilet?

The typical cost of materials and labor for professional toilet repair is $140–270, according to Yelp cost data. The actual cost will depend on a number of factors, including the specific repair, home location, and whether it’s an emergency repair.

How much does it cost to replace a toilet fill valve and flapper?

The cost of hiring a plumber to replace a toilet fill valve and flapper ranges from $85–230, plus parts. This is usually the necessary repair if water leaks from the tank into the toilet. For DIYers who want to save on labor costs, a flush valve, flapper, chain, and other parts can be purchased for $8–30 each.

Is it cheaper to fix a toilet or replace it?

It’s almost always cheaper to fix a toilet than to buy and install a new one. The national cost of toilet repair is $140–270, while toilet replacement costs typically run from $185–400 (for labor only), depending on the toilet type and brand. Replacement makes more sense when a toilet has a cracked bowl or tank, is clogged by mineral deposits, or if replacement parts are unavailable. 

How much does a plumber charge to replace a toilet?

The national cost of toilet replacement is $185–400 (for labor only); costs can be higher depending on the type of toilet and difficulty of installation. You could potentially save money by buying the toilet yourself and having it onsite for a professional to install.

Find a professional plumber 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.