Troubleshooting
How long do plumbing repairs usually take?
Updated · Editorial team; not yet technically reviewed
Short answer
Most everyday repairs, such as clearing a sink, replacing a toilet part or fixing a leaking trap, take under two hours once the plumber arrives. Replacing a tank water heater is typically a half-day job. Repiping, slab leak reroutes and sewer line replacement can take one to several days, plus time for permits and inspections.
Typical time on site
| Job | Typical time | What stretches it |
|---|---|---|
| Clear a sink or tub drain | Under 1 hour | Old metal traps that need replacing |
| Main line clog through a cleanout | 1–2 hours | No accessible cleanout; roots needing a camera follow-up |
| Toilet repair (flapper, fill valve) | Under 1 hour | Seized supply valve, corroded tank bolts |
| Toilet replacement | 1–3 hours | Damaged flange or subfloor |
| Faucet replacement | 1–2 hours | Corroded shutoff valves, tight cabinets |
| Tank water heater replacement | 2–4 hours (often half a day) | Code upgrades like an expansion tank, venting changes, permit inspection |
| Tank-to-tankless conversion | 1 day or more | New gas line sizing, venting and electrical |
| Leak detection | 1–3 hours | Several leaks, or leaks under a slab |
| Slab leak reroute | 1–2 days | Length of the reroute, wall and ceiling access |
| Whole-house repiping | 2–5 days typically | House size, number of fixtures, drywall repair afterward |
| Sewer line replacement | 1–3 days | Depth, length, permits, driveway or tree in the way; trenchless is often faster |
What makes jobs take longer
- Access: fixtures behind finished walls, crawl spaces and attics add time.
- Old materials: corroded valves and fittings often have to be replaced before the actual repair can be made.
- Permits and inspections: water heaters, gas lines, repiping and sewer work commonly need an inspection, which can add days between the work and sign-off.
- Parts: a specific water heater size or a matching fixture may need ordering.
How long will I be without water?
For most repairs, only the affected fixture or branch is shut off, so the rest of the house keeps water. A water heater replacement means a few hours without hot water. Repiping usually restores water at the end of each work day. Ask the plumber to tell you the shutoff window before they start.
Common questions
Why does a plumber need a camera inspection before quoting a sewer job?
The time and price depend on the pipe's material, depth and the type and location of damage, which only a camera shows.
General information; codes vary by location. See our editorial standards.