Who this guide is for
- Homeowners with a tap that will not stop dripping
- Anyone preparing notes before a plumber visit
- People unsure whether the drip is from the spout or handle
- Those tracking a worsening drip over time
Where a tap can drip
A drip can come from the spout when the tap is off, from around a handle, or from the base where the tap meets the surface. Each location points a plumber toward a different part, so identifying the source matters.
Watching the tap when fully off shows whether the spout drips, while feeling around the handle and base reveals other leaks.
What to observe and record
Useful documentation captures the location, rate and timing of the drip.
- Where the drip originates: spout, handle or base
- Roughly how often it drips, such as steady or occasional
- Whether it drips only after use or all the time
- Whether hot, cold or both taps are affected
- Any staining or pooling beneath the tap
Capturing the drip clearly
A short video showing the drip, with the tap clearly off, conveys the rate and source better than words. Photographs of any staining or pooling add helpful context.
Recording over a day or two shows whether the drip is constant or intermittent.
Why it is worth documenting promptly
A persistent drip can stain surfaces, encourage limescale and waste water, and it rarely improves on its own. Documenting it promptly helps a plumber address the cause before related marks set in.
- Note any staining building up beneath the tap
- Record whether the drip is getting worse
- Mention any related damp in the cabinet below a sink
Preparing for a plumber
A plumber can assess the tap and address the cause efficiently with your notes on where and how it drips. Avoid dismantling the tap yourself, as that is part of the work and can complicate the visit.
Dripping tap documentation checklist
- 1Identify whether the drip is from spout, handle or base
- 2Note roughly how often it drips
- 3Record whether it drips constantly or after use
- 4Note whether hot, cold or both are affected
- 5Capture a short video with the tap off
- 6Photograph any staining or pooling
- 7Check for damp in the cabinet below a sink
- 8Note whether the drip is worsening
- 9Keep notes together for a plumber
Common mistakes to avoid
- Dismantling the tap instead of documenting the drip
- Recording that it drips but not from where
- Ignoring staining building up beneath the tap
- Overlooking related damp in the cabinet below
- Assuming a drip will fix itself
- Forcing the handle tighter and risking damage
When to involve a professional
- Have a qualified plumber assess and address the dripping tap
- Route any internal tap or valve work to a licensed trade
- Raise any related damp below the sink with a professional
- Confirm the cause with a plumber rather than guessing
- Requirements vary by location and project, so confirm specifics for your home
Frequently asked questions
Questions readers ask about this topic
Where do taps usually drip from?
A drip can come from the spout when off, around the handle, or at the base where it meets the surface. Identifying the source helps a plumber know which part to assess.
How do I document a dripping tap?
Record where it drips, roughly how often, and whether it is constant or only after use, with a short video showing the tap off. Note any staining or pooling beneath.
Can I fix a dripping tap myself?
Tap internals are plumbing work best left to a qualified professional, and dismantling can complicate the visit. Document the drip and have a plumber address the cause.
Why fix a small drip quickly?
A persistent drip wastes water, encourages limescale and can stain surfaces, and it rarely improves on its own. Prompt documentation helps a plumber address it before marks set in.
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