If your home’s pipes are old, leaking, or causing low water pressure, you might be asking: How much does it cost to have plumbing replaced? It’s a big decision—both emotionally and financially—but knowing what to expect can ease the stress. Whether you’re dealing with corroded galvanized pipes or planning a proactive upgrade, this guide breaks down real-world costs, materials, and timelines so you can make an informed choice without overspending.
What Does “Plumbing Replacement” Actually Mean?
Before diving into costs, it’s important to understand what “plumbing replacement” entails. In most cases, this refers to a whole-house repipe—replacing all the water supply lines (hot and cold) from the main shutoff to every fixture. This is different from spot repairs, which fix isolated leaks or clogs.
A full repipe typically includes:
- Removing old pipes (often galvanized steel or polybutylene)
- Installing new supply lines (commonly PEX or copper)
- Patching drywall or flooring after access
- Permits and inspections (required in most U.S. cities)
💡 Did You Know? Homes built before 1970 often have galvanized steel pipes, which corrode over time and reduce water flow. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency , outdated plumbing can also contribute to poor water quality.
Average Cost to Replace Plumbing in 2025
The national average cost to repipe a house in 2025 ranges from $4,000 to $15,000, depending on several key factors:
| 1,000 sq ft | $2,500 – $6,000 | $6,000 – $12,000 |
| 2,000 sq ft | $4,000 – $9,000 | $8,000 – $15,000 |
| 3,000+ sq ft | $7,000 – $15,000+ | $12,000 – $25,000+ |
Source: Angi (formerly Angie’s List), HomeAdvisor, and 2025 industry contractor surveys
These estimates include labor, materials, permits, and minor wall repairs—but not major remodeling (e.g., full kitchen or bathroom renovations).
Key Factors That Affect Plumbing Replacement Cost
1. Type of Piping Material
- PEX (Cross-linked Polyethylene):
- Cost: $0.40–$2.00 per linear foot
- Pros: Flexible, freeze-resistant, easy to install, lower labor cost
- Cons: Not UV-resistant; not allowed in some municipalities for outdoor use
- Copper:
- Cost: $2.50–$8.00 per linear foot
- Pros: Durable (50+ year lifespan), recyclable, high resale value
- Cons: Expensive, requires skilled soldering, vulnerable to theft
🛠️ Expert Insight: “Over 80% of new repipe jobs we do now use PEX,” says Mark Delaney, master plumber with 22 years of experience in Phoenix, AZ. “It’s faster, cheaper, and just as reliable for residential use.”
2. Home Size and Layout
Larger homes need more piping. Multi-story homes increase labor time due to vertical runs and access challenges.
3. Accessibility
If pipes run through finished walls, ceilings, or concrete slabs, contractors must cut openings—adding $500–$2,000+ for drywall repair and repainting.
4. Local Labor Rates
Plumbers in New York or San Francisco charge $100–$180/hour vs. $60–$100/hour in the Midwest or South.
5. Permits and Code Compliance
Most cities require permits ($100–$500) and inspections. Skipping this risks fines or failed home inspections later.
PEX vs. Copper: Which Is Right for You?
| Installation Time | 2–4 days | 4–7 days |
| Lifespan | 40–50 years | 50–70+ years |
| Cost Efficiency | ✅ Lower upfront cost | ❌ Higher material + labor |
| Resale Appeal | Good | Excellent |
| Eco-Friendliness | Moderate (plastic) | High (100% recyclable) |
For most homeowners, PEX offers the best balance of cost, durability, and ease of installation—especially in retrofits.
Step-by-Step: What to Expect During a Repipe
- Inspection & Quote (Day 1)
A licensed plumber inspects your system, checks water pressure, and identifies pipe types. Request 3 written estimates. - Permit Application (Day 2–3)
Contractor files for permits. Some cities offer expedited review for repipes. - Shut Off Water & Demo (Day 1 of Work)
Main water turned off. Old pipes cut and removed. Access panels cut in walls (typically 12″x12″ per fixture). - Install New Pipes (Day 2–3)
PEX lines run from main shutoff to each fixture. Manifold systems (home-run) reduce joints and improve pressure. - Pressure Test & Inspection (Day 4)
System pressurized to 80–100 PSI for 2+ hours. City inspector verifies code compliance. - Patch & Clean (Day 5)
Drywall patched, sanded, and primed. Debris removed. Water restored.
⏱️ Timeline Tip: Most repipes take 3–5 business days for a 2,000 sq ft home. Plan to be home during key phases.
When Should You Replace vs. Repair?
Not every plumbing issue requires a full repipe. Consider replacement if:
- Your home has polybutylene pipes (gray plastic, common 1978–1995)—known to fail unexpectedly
- You have frequent leaks (2+ per year)
- Water appears rusty or discolored
- Water pressure is consistently low despite cleaning aerators
For isolated leaks or clogs, a repair may cost just $150–$500. But repeated fixes on aging pipes often cost more long-term.
📚 Learn more about outdated plumbing materials on Wikipedia’s plumbing page .
Hidden Costs to Watch For
- Mold remediation: If leaks caused hidden moisture, testing/remediation adds $500–$5,000
- Upgraded fixtures: Many homeowners replace faucets or water heaters during a repipe (+$1,000–$4,000)
- Emergency pricing: Avoid “24/7” plumbers for non-emergencies—they often charge 2–3x standard rates
Always get a fixed-price contract, not hourly, to avoid budget overruns.
FAQ Section
Q1: How long does a plumbing repipe last?
A: PEX lasts 40–50 years; copper can last 70+ years with proper water chemistry. Both far exceed the 20–30 year lifespan of old galvanized or polybutylene pipes.
Q2: Does homeowners insurance cover plumbing replacement?
A: Typically no—insurance covers sudden damage (e.g., burst pipes), not preventive upgrades. However, if a leak causes water damage, the repair might be covered, but not the pipe replacement itself.
Q3: Can I repipe my house myself?
A: Technically yes, but not recommended. Most states require licensed plumbers for permits and inspections. DIY mistakes can lead to leaks, code violations, or voided home warranties.
Q4: Will repiping increase my home’s value?
A: Indirectly, yes. Updated plumbing makes your home more attractive to buyers, avoids red flags during inspections, and prevents future repair liabilities.
Q5: How disruptive is a repipe?
A: Moderate. You’ll lose water access for 2–4 days. Walls will have small access holes (professionally patched). Most families stay home with minimal inconvenience.
Q6: What’s the cheapest way to repipe?
A: Choose PEX, schedule during off-peak seasons (late fall/winter), and bundle with other renovations to share drywall repair costs.
Conclusion
Understanding how much does it cost to have plumbing replaced empowers you to act confidently—whether you’re preventing a disaster or upgrading an aging system. With average costs between $4,000 and $15,000, a repipe is a significant investment, but one that pays off in peace of mind, water efficiency, and home value.
If your pipes are over 40 years old or you’re noticing recurring issues, don’t wait for a major leak. Get quotes from 3 licensed, insured plumbers, and prioritize transparency over the lowest price.
Found this guide helpful? Share it with a friend or on social media—someone you know might be silently stressing over rusty water or mysterious leaks! 💧🔧
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