How Much Does It Cost to Have Your Plumbing Redone?

If you’re noticing low water pressure, rusty water, or frequent leaks, it might be time to consider a full plumbing overhaul. But before you call a contractor, you’re probably asking: “How much does it cost to have your plumbing redone?” The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all—but this guide breaks down everything from average costs to hidden variables so you can budget wisely and avoid costly surprises.

What Does “Redoing Your Plumbing” Actually Mean?

When homeowners say they want to “redo their plumbing,” they usually mean re-piping—replacing old or damaged pipes throughout the home. This is different from fixing a single leak or upgrading a fixture. A full repipe typically involves:

• Removing outdated pipes (like galvanized steel or polybutylene)
• Installing new piping (usually PEX, copper, or CPVC)
• Reconnecting all fixtures (sinks, toilets, showers, etc.)
• Patching walls, floors, or ceilings after access work

According to HomeAdvisor, the national average cost to repipe a house ranges from $4,000 to $15,000, but that can vary widely based on your home’s size, location, and materials used.

How Much Does It Cost to Repipe a House? (By Size & Material)

The biggest cost drivers are square footage and pipe material. Here’s a realistic breakdown:

💡 Why PEX dominates: Cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) is flexible, freeze-resistant, and easier to install than rigid copper—making it the go-to choice for 80% of modern repipes (source: Wikipedia).

What Factors Influence Plumbing Replacement Costs?

Beyond square footage, several variables affect your final bill:

1. Type of Pipes Being Replaced

• Galvanized steel (common in homes built before 1960): Prone to rust and corrosion. Removal adds labor.
• Polybutylene (used 1978–1995): Known to fail unexpectedly. Most insurers won’t cover homes with this material.
• Lead pipes: Rare but hazardous—require EPA-compliant disposal.

2. Accessibility

If pipes run behind finished walls, contractors must cut drywall, then repair it afterward. Basements or crawl spaces reduce costs by up to 30%.

3. Permits & Inspections

Most cities require plumbing permits ($100–$500). Skipping this risks fines or failed home inspections later.

4. Labor Rates by Region

• Midwest: $45–$75/hour
• West Coast: $80–$120/hour
• Northeast: $70–$110/hour

(Source: Angi 2025 Labor Rate Survey)

PEX vs. Copper vs. CPVC: Pros, Cons & Long-Term Value

Choosing the right material impacts both upfront cost and future maintenance.

🛠️ Pro Tip: If you live in a cold climate, PEX is often the smartest long-term investment due to its flexibility under freezing conditions.

Step-by-Step: What to Expect During a Full Repipe

A typical repipe takes 2–5 days. Here’s what happens:

1. Day 1: Inspection & Planning
   • Contractor assesses current system
   • Determines pipe routes and material needs
   • Pulls permits (if required)
2. Day 2–3: Pipe Removal & Installation
   • Shut off main water supply
   • Remove old pipes (may involve cutting small access holes)
   • Install new main lines and branch lines
   • Connect to water heater, fixtures, and appliances
3. Day 4: Pressure Testing & Inspection
   • System pressurized to 80 PSI for 2+ hours to check for leaks
   • City inspector verifies code compliance
4. Day 5: Drywall Repair & Cleanup
   • Holes patched, sanded, and primed
   • Debris removed; site cleaned

✅ Note: You’ll likely be without water for 1–2 full days. Plan accordingly!

Hidden Costs to Watch Out For

Even with a detailed quote, surprises can arise:

• Wall/floor restoration: Basic patching is usually included, but painting or tiling isn’t.
• Upgraded fixtures: Want new faucets or showerheads? That’s extra.
• Water softener or filtration integration: Adds $500–$2,000.
• Emergency repairs: If a hidden leak is found, immediate fixes may be needed.

Always ask for a contingency clause (e.g., “+10% for unforeseen issues”) in your contract.

When Should You Repipe Instead of Repairing?

Not every plumbing issue requires a full redo. Consider repiping if:

• Your home is over 50 years old and still has original pipes
• You’ve had 3+ major leaks in the past year
• Water appears discolored or smells metallic
• Water pressure drops consistently across all fixtures

Minor leaks or isolated corrosion? A localized repair may suffice—and save thousands.

FAQ Section

Q1: How long does a repipe last?

A: With PEX or copper, expect 40–70 years of reliable service—far longer than patching old pipes.

Q2: Does homeowners insurance cover repiping?

A: Generally no—repiping is considered preventive maintenance. However, if a sudden pipe burst causes damage, insurance may cover repairs (but not the pipe replacement itself).

Q3: Can I stay in my house during the repipe?

A: Yes, but expect no running water for 1–2 days. Some contractors offer temporary toilet setups or water tanks.

Q4: Is PEX safe for drinking water?

A: Yes. PEX is NSF-certified and widely used in residential potable water systems across the U.S.

Q5: How do I choose a reputable plumber?

A: Look for:

• Licensed & insured contractors
• 5+ years of repipe experience
• Itemized written estimates
• Reviews mentioning “clean,” “on-time,” and “transparent pricing”

Q6: Will repiping increase my home’s value?

A: Indirectly, yes. Updated plumbing makes your home more attractive to buyers and can prevent inspection failures—potentially speeding up a sale.

Conclusion

Understanding how much it costs to have your plumbing redone empowers you to make informed decisions without overspending. While the average U.S. homeowner pays between $4,000 and $15,000, smart choices—like selecting PEX and planning for wall repairs—can keep costs predictable and add decades of reliability to your home’s infrastructure.

If this guide helped you feel more confident about your plumbing project, share it with a friend or on social media! Whether they’re dealing with rusty water or just curious about home upgrades, this info could save them time, money, and stress.

Got questions we didn’t cover? Drop them in the comments below—we’re here to help!