How Much Does It Cost To Replumb a House? (2024 Guide)

If you’re hearing strange noises from your pipes, noticing low water pressure, or dealing with frequent leaks, you might be facing a full replumbing job. Many homeowners ask, “How much does it cost to replumb a house?”—and for good reason. Replumbing is a major investment, but it’s often necessary to protect your home’s value, safety, and functionality. In this guide, we’ll break down real-world costs, key variables, and smart strategies to help you plan confidently.

What Does “Replumbing a House” Actually Mean?

Replumbing a house—also called “re-piping”—means replacing some or all of the existing water supply and/or drain lines throughout your home. This isn’t just fixing a leaky faucet; it’s a comprehensive overhaul of your plumbing infrastructure.

There are two main types:

• Partial replumbing: Replacing only problem sections (e.g., corroded galvanized pipes in the kitchen).
• Full replumbing: Replacing all supply and drain lines, often during major renovations or when pipes are outdated (like polybutylene or lead).

According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), homes built before 1970 are most likely to need full replumbing due to aging pipe materials.

How Much Does It Cost To Replumb a House? (2024 Average)

The national average cost to replumb a house in 2024 ranges from $4,000 to $15,000, with most homeowners paying around $8,500. However, this can vary dramatically based on several factors.

Here’s a quick cost breakdown by home size:

Source: HomeAdvisor, Angi, and Fixr 2024 Cost Reports

Keep in mind: these figures include labor, materials, permits, and minor drywall repairs. Major wall reconstruction or custom finishes will increase costs.

6 Key Factors That Affect Replumbing Costs

Understanding what drives the price helps you budget smarter. Here’s what matters most:

1. Pipe Material Chosen
   • PEX (cross-linked polyethylene): $0.40–$2.00 per linear foot. Flexible, freeze-resistant, and affordable. Most popular for modern homes.
   • Copper: $2.50–$8.00 per linear foot. Durable and long-lasting but expensive and labor-intensive.
   • CPVC (chlorinated polyvinyl chloride): $0.50–$2.00 per foot. Good for hot/cold water but less flexible than PEX.
   • Galvanized steel or polybutylene: These are obsolete and must be replaced due to corrosion or failure risks.
2. Home Size and Layout
   Larger homes = more pipe = higher cost. Multi-story homes add complexity (and labor hours) due to vertical pipe runs.
3. Accessibility of Pipes
   Pipes behind finished walls, under slabs, or in tight crawl spaces require more demolition and reconstruction—adding 20–40% to your total cost.
4. Type of Plumbing System
   Replacing only supply lines (water in) costs less than replacing both supply and drain-waste-vent (DWV) systems.
5. Permits and Local Labor Rates
   Permits typically cost $100–$500. Labor rates vary by region—e.g., $85/hour in rural Texas vs. $150+/hour in New York City.
6. Emergency vs. Planned Project
   Emergency replumbing (e.g., after a pipe burst) often costs 20–30% more due to overtime rates and urgency.

💡 Pro Tip: PEX is now the go-to for most contractors. It’s faster to install, requires fewer fittings, and is approved by all major U.S. building codes—including the International Plumbing Code .

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

If you decide to move forward, here’s what the process typically looks like:

1. Inspection & Quote (1–2 days)
   A licensed plumber inspects your system, often using a camera for hidden pipes, and provides a detailed estimate.
2. Permit Application (1–5 days)
   Your contractor pulls permits from the local building department. Never skip this—it affects resale value and insurance.
3. Demolition (1–3 days)
   Walls, floors, or ceilings are opened to access pipes. Contractors try to minimize damage, but some drywall removal is unavoidable.
4. Pipe Installation (3–7 days)
   New pipes are run throughout the house. PEX installations are faster—often completed in half the time of copper.

5. Pressure Testing & Inspection (1 day)
   The system is tested for leaks at 80–100 PSI for 2+ hours. A city inspector verifies code compliance.
6. Restoration (2–5 days)
   Drywall is patched, painted, and flooring is repaired. Some homeowners hire separate handymen for this phase to save money.

Total timeline: 1–3 weeks, depending on scope.

PEX vs. Copper: Which Is Better for Replumbing?

Many homeowners debate between PEX and copper. Here’s a clear comparison:

Verdict: For most U.S. homes, PEX offers the best balance of cost, durability, and ease of installation. Copper is still preferred in high-end builds or areas with strict material codes.

How to Save Money on Replumbing (Without Sacrificing Quality)

You don’t have to break the bank. Try these expert-backed strategies:

• Get 3+ quotes: Prices can vary by 30% between contractors.
• Bundle with other renovations: If you’re remodeling a kitchen or bathroom, do replumbing at the same time to avoid duplicate demolition.
• Choose PEX over copper: Save $2,000–$5,000 on materials and labor.
• Schedule in off-peak seasons: Late fall or winter may offer lower rates.
• Ask about payment plans: Many plumbing companies offer 0% financing for 12–24 months.

⚠️ Warning: Avoid “too-good-to-be-true” bids under $3,000 for a full replumb. They often cut corners on materials, skip permits, or use unlicensed labor.

FAQ Section

Q: How long does it take to replumb a whole house?
A: Most full replumbing projects take 7–14 days. Smaller homes may finish in 5 days; large or complex layouts can take 3+ weeks.

Q: Can I live in my house during replumbing?
A: Yes, but expect disruptions. Water will be shut off for 2–5 days. Plan for temporary bathroom use or stay with family if multiple zones are offline.

Q: Does homeowners insurance cover replumbing?
A: Generally, no—unless damage is caused by a sudden, covered event (like a burst pipe). Routine pipe replacement is considered maintenance.

Q: How do I know if my house needs replumbing?
A: Watch for: rusty water, frequent leaks, low water pressure, strange smells, or visible pipe corrosion. Homes with polybutylene (gray pipes) or galvanized steel (installed pre-1980) should be inspected ASAP.

Q: Will replumbing increase my home’s value?
A: Yes—especially if you’re selling. Updated plumbing is a major selling point and can prevent failed inspections. It may add 3–5% to your home’s market value.

Q: Do I need a permit to replumb my house?
A: Yes, in all 50 states. Permits ensure work meets safety codes and protect you during resale. Your licensed plumber should handle this.

Conclusion

Knowing how much does it cost to replumb a house empowers you to make informed, confident decisions. While the upfront investment may seem steep, modern plumbing boosts safety, efficiency, and home value for decades. Whether you choose PEX for affordability or copper for longevity, working with a licensed, insured contractor is non-negotiable.

If this guide helped you understand your options, share it with a friend who’s tackling home repairs! 💧
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Disclaimer: Costs are estimates as of 2024 and vary by location. Always consult a licensed plumber for a personalized quote.