By StoneRepair team · Published
Start with the condition, rather than a replacement order
A gap beneath the stone, a bowl sitting lower than before or movement at the rim needs attention. Stop using or loading a loose sink. Do not pull on it, try to push it back up or crawl beneath an unstable bowl for a photograph. Tell us if the sink has completely detached or water is leaking. A repair enquiry can begin with accessible photos; there is no need to dismantle anything to obtain a quote.
Make clear whether the existing sink is being re-fitted
The phrase remove and replace can be ambiguous. Ask whether the proposal means removing and reinstalling your current sink or supplying a different bowl. Re-fitting depends on the condition of the sink, the stone opening, the fixing surfaces and available access. Buying another sink first can create a second problem if its rim, bowl depth or opening does not suit the installed benchtop. If you want a different model, provide its manufacturer drawing before ordering.
Ask what preparation and support are included
A useful scope explains how the failed fixing will be addressed, what preparation is included and whether additional support is required. Existing adhesive, previous repair attempts and restricted access can affect the work. Ask how the sink will be held in position during curing and what support remains afterwards. The method should suit the existing bowl, stone and cabinet; the fact that a visible gap can be sealed does not establish that the sink is securely supported.
Separate stone work, plumbing and cabinet work
Confirm who is responsible for disconnecting and reconnecting plumbing and any waste unit, and when those tasks occur. Plumbing should be coordinated with a licensed plumber unless the written scope already provides for it. Re-fitting a sink does not automatically include changing the stone opening, repairing surrounding chips or cracks, replacing swollen cabinet panels or supplying a new bowl. List these items separately so an apparently lower price is not compared with a broader repair.
Send a photo set that shows access as well as damage
Include an overall benchtop view, the rim or gap from above and an accessible view inside the cupboard showing the underside, brackets, shelves and plumbing. Take photos only from a safe position. Add your suburb and postcode, approximate bowl dimensions and material if known. Tell us about leaks, previous repairs, waste units, drawers or shelves that restrict access. If you cannot safely show the underside, explain that rather than moving the bowl.
Check the return-to-use instructions before arranging trades
Ask for the curing period and restrictions for the actual bonding and support system selected. Do not assume that plumbing reconnection, water use or loading the bowl can happen as soon as it looks secure. Confirm the order of work with the repairer and plumber, and arrange suitable access to the cupboard. Keep the written instructions so everyone using the kitchen knows when normal use can resume.
Know the limits of a re-fitting quote
Reattaching a suitable sink does not by itself resolve damaged stone, water-damaged cabinetry or an unsuitable replacement bowl. Ask what happens if the photos reveal a wider issue, and which assumptions the quote relies on. Any separate chip or crack repair may remain visible, depending on the material and damage. A clear scope should state the proposed work, exclusions and any additional approval needed before extra work starts.
Request a quote with the whole installation in view
Use the enquiry form and select the dropped undermount sink job type. Send the photo set, location and details of whether you want to keep the same sink. Mention any related plumbing or stone damage so the response can address the complete job rather than just the visible gap.
Questions, answered.
Should I buy a replacement sink before asking for a repair quote?
Send the existing installation and proposed model first. A different bowl may not suit the opening, rim, cabinet or plumbing. A suitable existing bowl may be able to be re-fitted.
Does a sink re-fitting quote include plumbing?
Only when expressly stated. Check responsibility for disconnection, reconnection and any waste unit in the written scope before arranging the visit.
Can photos establish every aspect of the repair?
Photos support initial assessment and quoting but cannot show every concealed condition. Disclose previous repairs and restricted access, and ask which assumptions apply to the quoted scope.