How Much Does It Cost to Replace Plumbing in a House?

If you’re noticing low water pressure, discolored water, or frequent leaks, you might be facing a full plumbing replacement. Many homeowners ask, “How much does it cost to replace plumbing in a house?” — and for good reason. Repiping is a major home investment, but knowing what to expect can ease the stress and help you budget wisely. In this guide, we’ll break down real-world costs, materials, labor, and everything else you need to make an informed decision.

What Is Whole-House Repiping?

Whole-house repiping means replacing all or most of the existing water supply pipes in your home. This is often necessary in older homes (built before the 1980s) with outdated materials like galvanized steel or polybutylene, which are prone to corrosion, leaks, and failure.

According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) , homes with aging plumbing systems are at higher risk of water damage and reduced water quality. Replacing old pipes not only prevents emergencies but can also increase your home’s value and efficiency.

How Much Does It Cost to Replace Plumbing in a House? (2025 Pricing)

The average cost to repipe a house in 2025 ranges from $4,000 to $15,000, depending on several key factors:

💡 Real Example: A 2,000 sq ft home in Austin, TX, repiped with PEX in 2024 cost $8,200, including permits, drywall repair, and 3 days of labor.

What Factors Affect Repiping Costs?

1. Type of Pipe Material

• PEX (Cross-linked Polyethylene):
  ✅ Affordable, flexible, freeze-resistant
  ❌ Not UV-resistant (can’t be used outdoors)
  Best for most modern homes
• Copper:
  ✅ Durable (50+ years), recyclable, high resale value
  ❌ Expensive, requires skilled installation
  Preferred in high-end or historic homes
• CPVC or PVC:
  Used mainly for drain lines, not pressurized water supply.

📌 Pro Tip: PEX is now the most common choice for repiping due to its cost-effectiveness and ease of installation. The Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC) reports that over 60% of new repipe jobs in 2024 used PEX.

2. Home Size and Layout

Larger homes = more linear feet of pipe. A typical house uses 200–400 feet of supply piping. Complex layouts (e.g., multi-story, additions) increase labor time.

3. Wall Access & Drywall Repair

If pipes run behind finished walls, contractors must cut access panels. Drywall patching, painting, and cleanup can add $1,000–$3,000 to your total.

4. Local Labor Rates

Plumbers in New York or San Francisco charge 20–40% more than in rural Midwest areas. Always get 3+ local quotes.

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

1. Inspection & Quote
   A licensed plumber inspects your system (often with a camera) and provides a detailed estimate.

2. Permit Application
   Most cities require a plumbing permit. Your contractor usually handles this.
3. Shut Off Water & Demolition
   Water is turned off. Small access holes (6″x6″) are cut in walls near fixtures.
4. Install New Pipes
   New PEX or copper lines are run from the main shutoff to each fixture. Takes 2–5 days.
5. Pressure Testing
   System is tested at 80–100 PSI for 15–30 minutes to check for leaks.
6. Inspection & Drywall Repair
   City inspector approves work. Drywall is patched, sanded, and primed.
7. Restore Water & Final Walkthrough
   Water is turned back on. All faucets and fixtures are tested.

⚠️ Never skip the pressure test—it’s your best defense against hidden leaks.

PEX vs. Copper: Cost Comparison

For most homeowners, PEX offers the best balance of cost, durability, and performance.

Signs You Need to Repipe (Don’t Wait for a Flood!)

• Rusty or brown water
• Frequent pipe leaks or corrosion
• Low water pressure throughout the house
• Pipes older than 50 years (especially galvanized steel)
• Unexplained spikes in water bills

🛠️ According to HomeAdvisor’s 2024 Cost Guide , 70% of repipe jobs are triggered by emergency leaks—often costing 2–3x more than planned replacements.

How to Save Money on Repiping

• Bundle with other renovations (e.g., kitchen remodel) to reduce drywall costs.
• Choose PEX over copper—saves $3,000–$7,000 on average.
• Get multiple quotes—prices can vary by 30% between contractors.
• Ask about financing—many plumbers offer 0% APR for 12–24 months.

🔍 Always verify your plumber’s license, insurance, and reviews on BBB or Angi .

FAQ Section

Q1: How long does it take to repipe a whole house?

A: Most homes take 2 to 5 days. Larger or complex homes may take up to a week. You’ll have limited water access during this time, so plan accordingly.

Q2: Can I repipe my house myself?

A: While PEX is DIY-friendly, most cities require a licensed plumber for permits and inspections. Mistakes can lead to leaks, code violations, or voided insurance. Not recommended unless you’re highly experienced.

Q3: Does homeowners insurance cover repiping?

A: No—insurance typically covers sudden damage (like burst pipes), not preventative upgrades. However, if a leak causes damage, insurance may cover repairs after the fact.

Q4: Will repiping increase my home’s value?

A: Yes! Updated plumbing is a major selling point. Buyers avoid homes with outdated systems, and a full repipe can add 3–5% to your home’s market value, per the National Association of Realtors.

Q5: What’s the cheapest way to repipe?

A: Use PEX tubing, limit wall demolition, and hire a reputable local plumber during off-peak seasons (late fall or winter). Avoid “too good to be true” quotes—they often cut corners.

Q6: How do I know if my pipes are polybutylene?

A: Polybutylene pipes are gray, blue, or black and often stamped “PB2110.” They were used from 1978 to 1995 and are known to fail. If you have them, repiping is strongly advised. Learn more on Wikipedia’s page on polybutylene .

Conclusion

Understanding how much it costs to replace plumbing in a house empowers you to act before a small leak becomes a costly disaster. With average costs between $4,000 and $15,000, repiping is a significant but worthwhile investment in your home’s safety, efficiency, and value.

If you’re considering a repipe, get 3 quotes, choose PEX for most situations, and never skip permits or inspections. Your future self—and your wallet—will thank you.

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