The faucet valve or cartridge may be leaking
A steady drip from the spout when the handles are fully off usually points to an internal faucet component that building maintenance should service.
Why this result fits
- Water comes from the spout rather than beneath the sink.
- The drip continues after the handle is moved gently to its normal off position.
- There is no active spray, cabinet leak, or water near electricity.
What to do now
Do not force the handle
Turn it only to its normal off position. Stop if the handle is loose, stuck, or requires extra force.
Measure the pattern
Record whether the drip is constant and roughly how long it takes to fill a measured cup.
Submit a repair request
Report the fixture, hot or cold side if known, and whether the drip changes when another fixture runs.
Stop and escalate if
- The leak accelerates or the handle will not control flow.
- Water appears beneath the sink or inside the cabinet.
- Water approaches an outlet, appliance, or damaged surface.
What not to do
- Do not disassemble a landlord-owned faucet unless written permission clearly allows it.
- Do not wrench a stuck shutoff valve.
- Do not use tape or sealant on a moving faucet component.
Message you can send to maintenance
The [kitchen/bathroom] faucet continues dripping from the spout when both handles are in their normal off position. The drip is approximately [rate]. I have not disassembled the fixture or forced the shutoff.
Help prevent a repeat
- Report drips before they become a larger leak.
- Operate handles gently and avoid hanging items from the faucet.
If this does not match
Sources and review date
- Home Maintenance — U.S. Environmental Protection Agency WaterSense
- Fix a Leak Week — U.S. Environmental Protection Agency WaterSense
Content last reviewed: under the Apartmentwise methodology.