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Adolf Hasler AG
Alte Rötelbachstrasse 119463 Oberriet SG
Leaking Tap? Costs, Repair & Tips (2026)
October 5, 2026
5 minutes
A dripping tap is not only annoying but also wastes valuable drinking water. Whether a DIY repair is worthwhile or a plumber is the better choice depends on the model and age of the fitting. As of 2026, we show you how to tackle the problem correctly, what costs you can expect, and how to avoid expensive water damage.
Facts about dripping taps
An overview of the most important facts and figures regarding leaking fittings.
- High water loss
- If a drop falls every second, the loss adds up to around 8.6 litres of drinking water per day.
- Official lifespan
- According to the joint lifespan table (MV/HEV), the lifespan of a chrome-plated fitting in Switzerland is 20 years.
- Repair costs
- A plumber usually charges between 100 and 450 CHF to repair a dripping tap.
- Liability risk
- Anyone who causes water damage during a DIY repair is personally liable for the resulting consequential costs.
- Spare parts guarantee
- Renowned brand manufacturers often keep suitable spare parts such as cartridges or seals available for decades.
These facts will help you decide whether a repair is worthwhile.
Important terms explained simply
Two-handle tap
A classic tap with separate rotary handles for cold and hot water. Sealing is usually done via simple rubber seals in the upper valve parts.
Single-lever mixer
A modern fitting where temperature and water flow are controlled with just one lever. Inside, a complex, often sensitive cartridge does the work.
Angle valve
The small shut-off valve, usually located directly under the sink on the wall. It is used to locally interrupt the water supply to the fitting.
Knowing these technical terms will help you assess the problem correctly and communicate with the plumber.
Repair: Do it yourself or hire a professional?
DIY Repair (Two-handle tap)
When suitable
If it is a simple tap with two handles and only the rubber seal is calcified or brittle.
Costs and time required
The material costs for new seals are usually under 10 CHF. The time required is about 30 to 60 minutes.
Risks and disadvantages
Unsuitable tools can scratch the fitting. Improper installation carries the risk of unnoticed water leaks and expensive water damage.
Who it is suitable for
DIY enthusiasts with the right tools and experience in simple plumbing work.
Plumber (Single-lever mixer)
When suitable
If a modern single-lever mixer is dripping (cartridge replacement) or if it is a high-quality brand fitting.
Costs and time required
A professional repair in Switzerland typically costs between 100 and 450 CHF. The replacement is usually completed in under an hour.
Risks and disadvantages
There are higher initial costs for the tradesperson's working time and travel.
Who it is suitable for
Anyone who does not want to risk water damage and values professional, guaranteed execution.
First aid and procedure for a dripping tap
Before you pick up any tools or call a professional, you should follow these basic steps to avoid major damage.
1
Stop the water supply
Turn the angle valves under the sink clockwise to close them. If there is no angle valve, turn off the apartment's main water valve.
2
Drain residual water
Open the tap completely so that the water remaining in the pipe can drain and the pressure drops.
3
Determine the fitting type
Check whether you have a two-handle tap (with rubber seals) or a modern single-lever mixer (with a sensitive cartridge).
4
Check economic viability
If the fitting is older than 20 years or heavily calcified, a complete replacement is often more worthwhile than an expensive repair.
5
Contact a specialist company
Hire a plumber for single-lever mixers or if you are unsure. **Safety notice:** Improper DIY repairs can lead to unnoticed water damage for which you are personally liable.
With the right approach, you save your nerves, your wallet, and the environment.
Frequently asked questions about dripping taps
Here you will find answers to the most important questions about repairs, costs, and responsibilities.
Replacing a simple seal often falls under "minor maintenance" and is borne by the tenant (usually up to approx. 150 CHF). However, if the entire fitting or an expensive cartridge needs to be replaced, the landlord is usually responsible, provided the lifespan has not yet expired and the defect was not caused by improper use.
If a drop falls every second, the loss adds up to about 8.6 litres per day. Calculated over a year, that is over 3 000 litres of wasted drinking water.
For the repair of a dripping tap (e.g., seal or cartridge replacement), you should expect costs between 100 and 450 CHF. The exact price depends on the effort, material costs, and travel distance.
According to the joint lifespan table of the Tenants' Association (MV) and the Homeowners' Association (HEV), chrome-plated fittings have a lifespan of 20 years. After that, a complete replacement is usually more economical than a repair.
It is theoretically possible, but carries the risk of damaging the sensitive cartridge or the chrome surface. For high-quality single-lever mixers, it is strongly recommended to hire a professional to avoid expensive consequential damage.
Do you have further questions? A qualified plumbing company will be happy to advise you individually.
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