Not every tap issue needs a plumber. But enough of them do, and the line between what you’re allowed to do yourself and what’s licensed-only is clearer in some states than others.
Here’s a practical guide to tapware installation and repairs in Australia: what you can handle, what needs a licensed plumber, and what it costs.
What a plumber must do
What you can do yourself in most states
Rules vary by state, and in Queensland and NSW the licensed-work list is broader. If you’re not sure, give us a call — a tap repair is one of the fastest jobs we do.
Tap repair cost guide – Australia 2026
| Repair | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Tap washer replacement | $80–$160 |
| Ceramic disc cartridge replacement | $100–$220 |
| Tap reseating (worn seat) | $100–$180 |
| Mixer tap cartridge replacement | $120–$250 |
| Basin tap replacement (your tap) | $120–$220 |
| Supply and install new tap | $200–$500+ |
Choosing the right tapware
Before you buy, check three things:
FAQs about tapware
Why does my tap still drip after I replaced the washer?
A tap that keeps dripping with a new washer usually has a worn or pitted tap seat — the surface the washer presses against. A plumber can reface the seat with a reseating tool for $100–$180, or replace the tap outright.
How do I stop water hammer when I turn a tap off quickly?
Water hammer happens when high-pressure water stops suddenly. The fixes are a pressure limiting valve at the meter to bring mains pressure down, water hammer arrestors on the affected lines, or checking whether flexible hose connections have degraded.
Tap Problems? Call Plumbing Bros.
Fixed-price repairs. No call-out fees. All 13 locations.
