The national average cost to repair a toilet is $159. A toilet might need repairs for a number of reasons most notably, a harmful leak. Or, maybe your toilet is clogged or constantly running, creating a never-ending inconvenience. Regardless of what toilet problem is troubling you, you'll want to fix it quick and get your bathroom back in full, working order.
While you can do some toilet repairs yourself, a professional plumber will know the best way to fix your broken toilet quickly, and without causing further problems to your toilet, pipes or bathroom. If a plunger isn't cutting it, get an idea of how much you'll have to spend on plumber costs before you a handyman or plumber to fix your clogged or leaky toilet.
What affects the cost of repairing a toilet?
The toilet repair costs depend on a few factors most notably, what exactly is wrong with your toilet, like a broken flapper, a leaking base or a weak flush. This will impact both the plumber's project costs, and the cost of any parts, like a wax ring or a flange, you need to pay to replace.
Labor costs for toilet repair
For standard, run-of-the-mill jobs, like fixing a clogged toilet, many plumbers will charge a flat rate.
Sometimes, this flat rate comes in two forms: a diagnostic fee and a service fee. Other plumbers might offer a free estimate and charge only for the service fee. For instance,
Other plumbing services charge an hourly rate for their services. Luckily, simple toilet repairs typically only take an hour of two to repair. For example,
Cost of new parts for your toilet
You may also need to pay for parts needed for toilet repairs. However, many toilet parts are relatively inexpensive all of these parts, except for the toilet seat, cost between $5 and $20. A basic toilet seat will cost around $40-$50. Not up on your plumbing lingo? Here are some of the things you might need to replace in your toilet:
Serious leaks and clogs
A simple fix to unclog a toilet may not cost a lot of money -- project costs for a simple toilet repair run about $100 to $250 -- but complicated clogs can increase plumbing costs dramatically. To unclog a serious blockage, your plumber may need to take apart the toilet and snake the main drain. Your plumber may even need to replace a toilet drain pipe.
If your leak has soaked the drywall in your bathroom, you may also need to tear out the wall and replace it. In rare circumstances, if a plumber finds your sewer line clogged with tree roots, a simple repair can transform into an expensive plumbing problem. The to remove a serious blockage from your pipes can be as high as $400.
Replacing wax rings or installing a new flange may be more expensive, too, because the plumber has to remove the toilet entirely to access the old flange or wax ring. The plumber then needs to reseat and reseal the wax ring, flange, and toilet.
How much does it cost to repair a toilet?
Toilet replacement doesn't have to be terribly expensive, so don't panic if your plumber says you might need a new toilet. Typically,
If your toilet is leaking beyond repair, it may be more cost effective to get a new toilet. You can also buy a toilet on your own and have the plumber install it.
How can I save on toilet repair?
While most plumbing services won't break the bank, there are a few ways you can save money when you hire a plumber or handyman to repair your toilet:
Avoid emergency plumbing repairs and weekend services
Sometimes, you don't have a choice: If you live in a one-bath home and your toilet breaks, you can't necessarily wait a few days for a plumber to come fix the appliance.
But if you can wait, you can save serious money. Emergency plumbing repairs may require a plumber to drop what they're doing and they may charge you more for the inconvenience. Weekend service can cost more, too. While the average national rate for plumbers is $45 to $150 per hour, weekend and emergency plumbing can as much as the rate of a plumber's usual fee.
Ask about discounts
You might be eligible for special discounts on plumbing costs. Make sure to ask your local plumber. For example, Minneapolis's
Consider DIY'ing simple repairs
Also consider doing simple repairs yourself. For a clogged toilet, consider renting a toilet augur or snake from your local home improvement store. (In most situations, you'll want to avoid Drano or other liquid plumbers, which can damage your drains and pipes). Renting a toilet augur or plumbing snake will cost about $15 for a day, making this a cheap repair for do-it-yourselfers.
Look at your insurance or warranty
Many toilet manufacturers offer warranties at purchase though you have to register to receive it. Check your warranty to see what it covers, but many will cover the cost of parts and, if needed, the cost of a new, replacement toilet.
For larger problems, like those with your pipes, your home insurance may also be able to help cover costs.
How to hire a plumber
Before you a pro to fix your toilet, consider the following tips: