Water drips from the spout while off
This confirms unintended flow at the outlet but not which internal model-specific component is responsible.
Notice next: Record the drip pattern and the fixture manufacturer or model if visible.
United States guidance50 states + DC context
Practical plumbing guidance
Reviewed and updated September 21, 2026
Why is my faucet dripping, and when should it be repaired?
Put safety before diagnosisStop hands-on checks when water reaches outlets or appliances, enters a wall or cabinet rapidly, or a shutoff is leaking, stuck or visibly corroded.
A faucet can drip from the outlet, leak around a handle or base, or allow water below the sink, and those patterns do not share one guaranteed cause. Record where water first appears and whether it happens while the faucet is off, running or being moved.
A contained outlet drip still deserves repair because it indicates unintended water flow, while water entering a cabinet, wall or electrical area needs faster containment and inspection. Match any parts or procedures to the exact fixture model and do not force a corroded shutoff.
Start with observable differences
Which pattern best matches the home?
Water appears at a handle or faucet base
The location is useful service context, but water can travel across the fixture surface.
Notice next: Dry the visible surface only if safe, then note where moisture first returns during ordinary use.
Water appears below the sink
The faucet, supply connection, drain or another source may be involved; the cabinet puddle alone does not identify which.
Notice next: Observe from a dry position whether moisture begins at a supply, drain or upper fixture area without tightening parts.
Safe observation
What should you record before the call?
A short, factual description helps the next professional choose the right first inspection without treating a symptom as proof.
Leak location and timing narrow the service scope; they do not prove the internal part, supply, drain or fixture body is the cause.
What to record
- Where water first appears: spout, handle, base, supply area, drain area or unknown.
- Whether leakage occurs while off, during flow or when the spout or handle moves.
- Whether water remains contained in the sink or reaches the cabinet, wall or floor.
- Fixture manufacturer and model if visible without dismantling.
- Condition of accessible shutoffs without turning, forcing or tightening them.
Stop and get appropriate help
- Water is spreading inside the cabinet, wall, backsplash or floor.
- Water is near an outlet, disposal or other electrical equipment.
- A fixture or building shutoff leaks, will not turn normally or is not clearly identified.
Short answers
Questions people ask before the call
Does a spout drip prove which cartridge or washer failed?
No. Faucet designs differ, so the exact model and inspection determine compatible parts.
Can I ignore a small contained drip?
It still represents unintended flow and should be scheduled for repair, but this page does not claim a specific bill impact.
Should I tighten every connection under the sink?
No. Blind tightening can damage parts or miss another source; record the first visible wet point and obtain model-appropriate guidance.
Where this guidance applies
The safety and observation sequence on this page is general U.S. guidance.
Utility ownership, permits, trade licensing, rental responsibility, codes, prices and provider availability must be checked for the exact property.
A ZIP helps identify possible utilities and service areas, but it does not prove jurisdiction, address-level coverage or an available plumber.
Sources and boundaries
What supports this guide?
- U.S. EPA WaterSense — Fix a Leak WeekHousehold leak detection, toilet flapper and flow-monitoring context. Scope: national. Source checked 2026-09-15.
- U.S. EPA WaterSense — Home MaintenanceLeak, toilet, faucet, fixture and household water-maintenance observations. Scope: national. Source checked 2026-09-15.
Educational information only: this page cannot inspect the property, diagnose hidden work, provide legal advice, quote a repair or promise service availability.
Sources support the general guidance shown here. Address-specific rules, responsibility, price and availability still require current local confirmation.
If conditions are unsafe or rapidly worsening, stop troubleshooting and contact the appropriate emergency service or qualified local professional.