| Quick facts | Answer |
|---|---|
| Cost range | $130 to $300 for professional repair; flapper parts $12 to $30 |
| Time | Often same day; a local pro calls back within the hour, Mon-Fri 8am-6pm CT |
| Who's qualified | Ask for proof of licence and insurance; Kansas City requires a city-licensed plumbing contractor |
What should I do today if my toilet is dripping?
Turn off the water at the main shut-off valve if the leak is heavy, and know where that valve is before you need it. To test for a leak, put a drop of food coloring in the tank; if color shows in the bowl after 10 to 15 minutes, the toilet is leaking. A flapper replacement often fixes it.
Will fixing the leak lower my water bill?
HomeGuide says fixing a leaking toilet may save about $100 to $200 a month in the long term if the leak is wasting water. Check your bill after the repair to confirm the savings.
What should I check before hiring a plumber?
Kansas City requires permits for most plumbing work, and licensed contractors must obtain permits for the work they perform. Ask the pro for proof of licence and insurance, and confirm the quote covers the permit if one is needed.
How much more do after-hours or emergency calls cost?
After-hours plumbing service is commonly priced at about 1.5 to 2 times the standard rate in Kansas City. Ask for the after-hours rate in writing before the visit.
What to do next
- Find your main water shut-off valve and turn it off if the toilet leak is heavy.
- Run the food coloring test: add dye to the tank and check the bowl after 10 to 15 minutes.
- Ask the pro for proof of licence and insurance; Kansas City plumbing contractors must carry at least $1 million in liability insurance.
- Request a written quote that lists the toilet repair cost, any after-hours rate, and whether a permit is included.
- Call (816) 750-5918 or email [email protected] for a free quote from a licensed, insured Kansas City plumber.
KC Plumb is a free referral service: an independent contractor does the work and may pay us a referral fee. You never pay us anything.
