Did Falcon Homes Use Kitec Plumbing? The Truth Revealed

Buying a home in Las Vegas is an exciting milestone, but it can quickly turn into a nightmare if you discover hidden structural issues. One of the most pressing concerns for homeowners in properties built between 1995 and 2007 is the presence of Kitec plumbing, a defective piping system known for catastrophic failures. If you are looking at a property built by Falcon Homes, you are likely asking: Did Falcon Homes use Kitec plumbing in Las Vegas?

The short answer is that while Falcon Homes was a prominent builder during the era when Kitec was widely installed, there is no single public record confirming they used it exclusively or universally across all subdivisions. However, given the prevalence of Kitec in Southern Nevada during that period, the risk is significant. This guide will help you identify the signs, understand the risks, and take the necessary steps to protect your investment.

What Is Kitec Plumbing and Why Is It Dangerous?

Before diving into specific builders, it is crucial to understand what Kitec is and why it has become a four-letter word in the real estate industry.

Kitec was a brand of flexible piping made from cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) with an aluminum layer sandwiched in between. It was marketed as a cheaper, easier-to-install alternative to copper. From 1995 to 2007, it was installed in millions of homes across North America, including a high concentration in Las Vegas, Arizona, and California.

The Science Behind the Failure

The system failed due to two main reasons:

1. Brass Fittings Degradation: The brass fittings used to connect the pipes contained high levels of zinc. In a process called dezincification, the zinc leaches out, leaving the brass brittle and prone to cracking.
2. Heat Sensitivity: The plastic pipes themselves degrade faster when exposed to hot water, leading to bursts and leaks.

According to Wikipedia, a class-action settlement was reached in 2012, setting up a $1 billion fund to compensate homeowners. However, the deadline for claims has passed, meaning new homeowners must bear the full cost of replacement.

Did Falcon Homes Install Kitec in Las Vegas?

Falcon Homes was a major homebuilder in Nevada during the late 1990s and early 2000s, a peak period for Kitec installation. While Falcon Homes did not issue a widespread public recall or admission specifically linking their entire portfolio to Kitec, the timeline matches perfectly.

The “Era of Installation” Factor

In Las Vegas, Kitec was not limited to one builder. It was used by many large construction companies because it reduced labor costs and material expenses. If your Falcon Home was built between 1998 and 2006, the probability of having Kitec plumbing is high.

Real estate experts in Clark County often note that subdivisions developed during the housing boom of the early 2000s have a higher incidence of Kitec. Since Falcon Homes was active in areas like Henderson, North Las Vegas, and Summerlin during this window, due diligence is non-negotiable.

Expert Insight: “We don’t look at the builder’s name alone; we look at the permit dates. If the home was permitted between 1995 and 2007 in Southern Nevada, we assume Kitec is present until proven otherwise.” – Senior Home Inspector, Las Vegas Valley.

How to Identify Kitec Plumbing in Your Home

You do not need to be a plumber to spot Kitec. The system has distinct visual markers that make it relatively easy to identify during a walkthrough or inspection.

Visual Checklist for Identification

Look for the following characteristics in your utility room, under sinks, or near the water heater:

• Color Coding: Kitec pipes are usually bright orange (for hot water) and blue (for cold water). Sometimes they are gray, but orange and blue are the most common identifiers.
• Markings on the Pipe: Look for printed text on the side of the pipe. It will typically read:
  • KITEC
  • KTC
  • ASTM F1281
• Brass Fittings: The fittings (elbows, tees, valves) will often be a dull gold/brass color and may have the words Kitec or KT stamped on them.

Comparison Table: Kitec vs. Standard PEX vs. Copper

The Risks of Keeping Kitec Plumbing

If you confirm that your Falcon Home has Kitec plumbing, ignoring it is not a viable option. The risks extend beyond minor inconveniences.

1. Catastrophic Water Damage

Kitec failures are rarely slow drips. They often result in sudden bursts. In Las Vegas, where homes may be vacant for periods or have second-story bathrooms, a burst pipe can cause thousands of dollars in damage to drywall, flooring, and personal belongings in a matter of hours.

2. Insurance Issues

Many insurance companies in Nevada now require a 4-point inspection for homes built before 2010. If Kitec is identified, insurers may:

• Deny coverage entirely.
• Require proof of full repiping before issuing a policy.
• Charge significantly higher premiums.

3. Reduced Resale Value

Homes with known Kitec plumbing sit on the market longer. Buyers are wary of the $10,000–$15,000 cost associated with repiping. You may have to lower your asking price or offer a credit to close the deal.

Step-by-Step: What to Do If You Find Kitec

If you suspect or confirm Kitec plumbing in your Falcon Home, follow these steps immediately.

Step 1: Hire a Licensed Plumber for Verification

Do not rely solely on a general home inspector. Hire a licensed plumber in Las Vegas to perform a specific plumbing inspection. They can trace the lines and confirm the extent of the installation.

Step 2: Check for Previous Replacements

Ask the seller for permits. If the previous owner replaced the plumbing, there should be a city permit from Clark County or the respective municipality (Henderson, North Las Vegas, etc.) verifying the work was done to code.

Step 3: Get Repiping Quotes

If the plumbing is original Kitec, start getting quotes for a full repipe.

• Average Cost in Las Vegas: $8,000 to $15,000 depending on square footage and stories.
• Material Choice: Most homeowners switch to standard PEX (Uponor or Viega) or Copper. PEX is more cost-effective and resistant to freezing, though freezing is less of a concern in Vegas.

Step 4: Negotiate or Budget

• If Buying: Request a seller credit for the repiping cost or ask the seller to complete the work before closing.
• If Owning: Budget for the replacement immediately. Do not wait for a leak.

FAQ Section

1. Did all Falcon Homes in Las Vegas use Kitec?

No, not all. However, a significant portion of homes built by major developers in Southern Nevada between 1995 and 2007 utilized Kitec. It depends on the specific subdivision and the year of construction. Verification is required for each individual property.

2. Can I just replace the brass fittings instead of the whole system?

While replacing fittings with plastic or stainless steel alternatives can mitigate some risks, it does not address the degradation of the plastic pipe itself, especially on the hot water lines. Most experts and insurers recommend a full system replacement to ensure long-term safety and insurability.

3. How long does it take to repipe a house in Las Vegas?

For an average single-story home (1,500–2,000 sq. ft.), a professional repipe typically takes 2 to 3 days. Larger two-story homes may take 3 to 5 days. The process involves accessing walls through small cutouts, which are then patched and painted.

4. Does homeowners insurance cover Kitec replacement?

Generally, no. Insurance covers sudden and accidental damage (like a burst pipe), but it considers Kitec replacement a maintenance issue or a pre-existing defect. You will likely have to pay for the repiping out of pocket. However, if a Kitec pipe bursts and damages your floor, the damage might be covered, provided you didn’t neglect known risks.

5. Is Kitec plumbing still legal in Nevada?

Kitec was banned from installation in 2007. It is not “illegal” to have it in your home currently, but it is considered a defective product. You are not required by law to remove it, but failing to disclose it when selling your home can lead to legal liability.

6. How can I tell if my home was built by Falcon Homes?

Check your property deed, title report, or original purchase documents. You can also search the Clark County Assessor’s website using your parcel number. The builder’s name is often listed in the property history or subdivision records.

Conclusion

So, did Falcon Homes use Kitec plumbing in Las Vegas? While there is no definitive “yes” for every single home, the overlap in construction timelines makes it a very strong possibility. For homeowners and buyers in Las Vegas, assuming the presence of Kitec in homes built between 1995 and 2007 is the safest approach.

Identifying this plumbing early can save you from devastating water damage and financial loss. Whether you are buying a Falcon Home or have lived in one for years, take action today. Inspect your pipes, consult with a licensed plumber, and plan for repiping if necessary.

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