If you’re hearing strange noises from your pipes, noticing low water pressure, or dealing with frequent leaks, you might be wondering: how much does it cost to redo plumbing? Repiping your home is a major decision—both emotionally and financially—but it’s often necessary for safety, efficiency, and long-term savings. In this guide, we’ll break down real-world costs, key variables, and smart strategies to help you plan without surprises.
What Does “Redoing Plumbing” Actually Mean?
“Redoing plumbing” typically refers to repiping—replacing old or damaged water supply lines throughout your home. This isn’t just fixing a leaky faucet; it’s a full-system overhaul that may involve removing walls, rerouting pipes, and upgrading materials. Common reasons include:
Corroded galvanized steel pipes (common in homes built before 1970)
Frequent leaks or water damage
Low water pressure due to pipe buildup
Upgrading to modern, safer materials like PEX or copper
According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), outdated plumbing can reduce a home’s value by up to 10% and increase insurance premiums due to leak risks.
Average Cost to Redo Plumbing in 2024
The national average cost to repipe a house ranges from $4,000 to $15,000, with most homeowners paying around $8,500. However, this varies widely based on several factors:
Small (1–2 bedrooms)
$2,500 – $6,000
Medium (3 bedrooms)
$6,000 – $10,000
Large (4+ bedrooms)
$10,000 – $20,000+
Source: HomeAdvisor, Angi, and Fixr 2024 Cost Reports
💡 Pro Tip: Labor typically accounts for 60–70% of the total cost. Always get at least three detailed quotes from licensed plumbers.
Key Factors That Affect Repiping Costs
1. Type of Pipe Material
Your choice of piping material significantly impacts cost and longevity:
PEX
$0.40 – $2.00
40–50 years
Flexible, freeze-resistant, easy to install
Not UV-resistant; not allowed in some municipalities
Copper
$2.50 – $8.00
50–70 years
Durable, recyclable, high resale value
Expensive; susceptible to theft
CPVC
$0.50 – $2.00
50+ years
Resists corrosion, handles hot water well
Brittle in cold temps; requires glue
Galvanized Steel
Not recommended
20–50 years
—
Prone to rust, scale buildup, and leaks
PEX is now the most popular choice for whole-house repiping due to its affordability and ease of installation. The Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC) reports that over 60% of new repiping jobs in 2023 used PEX.
2. Home Size and Layout
A 1,200 sq ft ranch-style home is easier (and cheaper) to repipe than a 3,000 sq ft two-story with finished basements. Multi-level homes require more labor for access and drywall repair.
3. Accessibility of Pipes
If pipes run through open crawl spaces or unfinished basements, costs drop. But if they’re buried behind tile, hardwood floors, or custom cabinetry, expect $1,000–$3,000 extra for wall/floor restoration.
4. Permits and Local Codes
Most cities require plumbing permits for full repiping. Fees range from $100 to $500, but skipping them can void your home insurance or cause issues during resale. Always verify local building codes—some areas restrict certain materials (e.g., PEX bans in parts of California were lifted in 2022, but local rules vary).
Step-by-Step: What to Expect During a Repipe
Inspection & Quote (1–2 days) A licensed plumber inspects your system, often using a camera scope. They’ll provide a line-item estimate.
Permit Application (1–5 days) Your contractor usually handles this. Required in most U.S. jurisdictions.
Shut Off Water & Demolition (Day 1) Water is turned off. Small access holes (6”–12”) are cut in walls/floors—not full demolition in most cases.
Install New Pipes (2–5 days) New lines are run from the main supply to each fixture. PEX installations are fastest (often 2–3 days for a medium home).
Pressure Testing & Inspection (1 day) The system is pressurized to check for leaks. A city inspector verifies code compliance.
Patch & Paint (1–2 days) Drywall patches, sanding, and primer. Full painting is usually extra.
✅ Best Practice: Stay in a hotel or with family during active work—your water will be off for 2–4 days.
Hidden Costs to Watch For
Mold remediation: If old leaks caused hidden mold, testing and cleanup can add $500–$5,000.
Upgraded fixtures: Replacing old faucets or shower valves during repipe adds $200–$1,000.
Emergency repairs: If a pipe bursts during demolition, immediate fixes may cost extra.
Water softener or filtration integration: Adding these during repipe costs $800–$3,000 but improves system longevity.
While YouTube makes repiping look simple, 99% of whole-house repipes should be done by licensed professionals. Why?
Code compliance: One mistake can fail inspection or cause future leaks.
Warranty: Reputable plumbers offer 10–25 year warranties on materials and labor.
Insurance: DIY plumbing errors aren’t covered by homeowner’s insurance.
The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) states that improper DIY plumbing is a top-5 cause of water damage claims.
FAQ: Your Top Questions Answered
Q: How long does it take to redo plumbing in a house?
A: Most full-house repipes take 3 to 7 days, depending on size, material, and accessibility. PEX is faster than copper due to fewer joints and no soldering.
Q: Does homeowners insurance cover repiping?
A: Generally, no. Insurance covers sudden damage (like a burst pipe), not preventative upgrades. However, if repiping is required after a covered water damage claim, part of the cost may be reimbursed.
Q: Can I live in the house during repiping?
A: Technically yes, but it’s not recommended. You’ll have no running water for several days, dust from drywall work, and restricted bathroom/kitchen use.
Q: How do I know if my house needs repiping?
A: Signs include: rusty water, frequent leaks, low water pressure, banging pipes (“water hammer”), or a home built before 1980 with original pipes. A $150 camera inspection can confirm.
Q: Will repiping increase my home’s value?
A: Yes—especially if replacing outdated galvanized or polybutylene pipes. Appraisers view modern plumbing as a major upgrade, potentially boosting resale value by 3–7%.
Q: What’s the cheapest way to redo plumbing?
A: Choose PEX piping, limit wall demolition by using existing chases, and schedule work during off-peak seasons (late fall/winter) when plumbers may offer discounts.
Conclusion: Invest Smart, Save Long-Term
Understanding how much does it cost to redo plumbing empowers you to make informed, confident decisions. While the upfront price may seem steep, a full repipe eliminates recurring repair bills, prevents catastrophic water damage, and modernizes your home’s infrastructure. Most homeowners recoup their investment through peace of mind, lower utility bills, and increased property value.
👉 Found this guide helpful? Share it with a friend who’s tackling a home renovation! 💬 Have questions? Drop them in the comments below—we reply to every one.
Remember: When it comes to plumbing, cutting corners today can flood your budget tomorrow. Choose quality, choose safety, and always hire licensed professionals.
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