Any leak, even a small one, can grow into an emergency depending on its severity and location. If the leak is substantial, located in a critical area near electrical systems or causes flooding, immediate action is usually required. Delaying repairs can lead to severe water damage, mold issues and significant repair costs. 

If you spot a leak outside a tub or sink, shut off your home’s water supply. If possible, mop up the water to minimize damage. Then, contact a professional plumber so they can pinpoint the cause and repair it.

According to Thumbtack data, the national average cost to fix a leaky pipe ranges from approximately $230 to $750.* However, you may need to pay a surcharge to a leak detection pro near you if your water leak emergency happens outside normal business hours.   

Burst pipes are a common cause of water leaks. On average, burst pipe repairs cost about $420 in the US, and prices range from about $230 to $765, on average.

*Data on file at Thumbtack. For a personalized cost estimate, request a quote from a professional.

Many plumbers can fix leaks in water supply lines, sewer pipes, water heaters, faucets, showers, bathtubs and toilets. 

Sometimes, plumbers can also help with leaky dishwashers and washing machines. But you may have to call an appliance repair technician instead. The same goes for pools and hot tubs — a pool repair professional may be the better choice for these specialized plumbing systems. 

Also, most plumbers don't have the tools and training to fix a leaking roof or a basement that fills with groundwater. Call a roofing professional or a foundation repair professional for these issues.

While some plumbers are trained to fix gas leaks, many may choose not to work with this dangerous material. If you suspect a gas leak, treat it as an emergency. Evacuate the area, call the gas company and then contact a plumber. 

When repairing a plumbing leak, a specialist will typically take the following steps:

• Locate the leak: The plumber may need to use a leak detection device (acoustic listening device, thermal camera, moisture meter, etc.)

• Shut off the water supply: This prevents water from spilling out during the repair.

• Access the leaky pipe: They may need to remove any drywall or plaster blocking access to the leaky pipe.

• Repair the leak: Depending on the severity of the leak, the repair could involve pipe putty, tightening a loose connection or replacing a section of pipe.

• Test the pipe: Turn the water back on to check for any remaining leaks.

In most situations, a plumber can fix a leak in one to two hours. Simple leaks like a dripping faucet or a loose pipe connector may take even less time to repair. These three factors will determine how long it takes to repair the leak:

• Location: If the leak is in a tight space or behind a wall, it will take longer for the plumber to locate and repair it.

• Material: Some pipe materials require soldering or cutting to repair, which takes longer than simply tightening a connection.

• Parts required: If your leak requires a specialty component, it may not be available the same day.

Remember: The timeline for your project will vary depending on many factors. Always ask your pro to provide an estimate.

A water leak is often an emergency due to the amount of damage it can wreak on your home. If you can’t find the leak or you’re unsure how to safely remove and replace the affected pipe, call a leak specialist or plumber.

That said, sometimes a water leak is an easy DIY project. For example, if water leaks out of a faucet handle, you can solve the problem by replacing the faucet yourself. You can also replace water leaking out of a toilet tank by replacing the seal. And if there's a leaky connection under the sink, you can swap in a new flexible hose. 

Depending on the scope of the fix, you may need to pull a plumbing permit and get the finished product inspected — even if you do the work yourself. Contact your local building division or a plumber to learn more.

Water leaks in homes are commonly caused by the following:

• Fozen pipes. The water expands as it freezes, increasing pressure inside the pipe until it bursts at a weak point. 

• Normal wear and tear. Rubber seals around pipe joints and valves will eventually dry out, crack and crumble, leaving room for water to escape.

• Corrosion: Metal pipes may corrode and weaken until they burst.

• Hard water: The minerals found in hard water accelerate the rate of corrosion by reacting with the metal pipe and thinning its walls.

• Clogs: In sewer lines, leaks can be caused by clogs. The clog pressurizes the sewer line, which can cause wastewater to spill out of a weak joint.

• Tree roots: Aggressive tree roots may also invade sewer pipes at a weak point and create a leak. 

No matter the cause, a leak specialist or plumber should be able to diagnose the problem and come up with a plan to protect your home against future leaks.