If you’re hearing strange gurgles from your pipes, noticing discolored water, or dealing with frequent leaks, you might be facing a full plumbing replacement. Homeowners often ask, “How much is it to replace plumbing in a house?”—and for good reason. A repipe is a major investment, but delaying it can lead to costly water damage or health hazards. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about costs, materials, timelines, and smart ways to save—so you can make confident, informed decisions.
What Does “Replacing Plumbing in a House” Actually Mean?
Replacing plumbing—often called a “whole-house repipe”—means removing old water supply lines (and sometimes drain lines) and installing new ones throughout your home. This isn’t just fixing a leaky faucet; it’s a comprehensive overhaul of your home’s internal water delivery system.
Most repipes focus on supply lines (hot and cold water going to fixtures), not sewer or drain lines (which flow away). However, if your drains are also failing (e.g., cast iron pipes from the 1950s), those may need separate replacement—adding significantly to the total cost.
How Much Does It Cost to Replace Plumbing in a House? (2024 Breakdown)
According to HomeAdvisor and Angi’s 2024 data, the average cost to repipe a house ranges from $4,000 to $15,000, with most homeowners paying around $8,000. But your actual cost depends on several key factors:
House Size
$2,500 (800 sq ft)
$20,000+ (3,000+ sq ft)
Pipe Material
$3–$6/sq ft (PEX)
$8–$12/sq ft (copper)
Accessibility
Easy access (slab-on-grade)
Hard access (finished walls, multi-story)
Permits & Labor
$500–$1,500
$2,000–$4,000 (in high-cost areas like CA or NY)
💡 Pro Tip: Labor typically makes up 60–70% of the total cost. Always get 3+ quotes from licensed plumbers.
What Factors Influence the Total Cost?
1. Type of Pipe Material
The two most common options are PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) and copper:
PEX: ✅ Flexible, freeze-resistant, cheaper ($0.40–$2.00 per linear foot) ✅ Faster installation (fewer joints = fewer leak points) ❌ Not UV-resistant (can’t be used outdoors without protection)
Copper: ✅ Durable, long-lasting (50+ years), recyclable ✅ Resists bacterial growth ❌ Expensive ($2–$8 per linear foot) ❌ Susceptible to pinhole leaks in acidic water
A 1,200-square-foot ranch-style home with open walls costs far less than a 2,500-square-foot colonial with finished basements and multiple bathrooms. Every additional fixture (sink, shower, toilet) adds labor and materials.
3. Wall Accessibility
If your plumber must cut into drywall, tile, or hardwood floors—and you need those areas repaired afterward—costs can jump by $1,000–$5,000. Ask if your contractor includes wall patching and painting in their quote.
4. Local Labor Rates
Plumbers in San Francisco charge 2–3x more than those in rural Texas. Check your local rates via the Bureau of Labor Statistics or platforms like HomeAdvisor.
Step-by-Step: What to Expect During a Repipe
Inspection & Quote (1–2 days) A licensed plumber inspects your system, often using a camera for hidden pipes. They’ll provide a detailed estimate.
Permit Application (1–5 days) Most cities require a plumbing permit. Your contractor usually handles this.
Shut Off Water & Demolition (Day 1) Water is turned off. Small access holes (6″x6″) are cut into walls near fixtures.
Remove Old Pipes & Install New (2–5 days) Old pipes are extracted. New PEX or copper lines are run from the main shutoff to each fixture. → For PEX: Use ½-inch diameter tubing for branch lines, ¾-inch for mains. → Water temperature during installation isn’t critical, but avoid freezing conditions.
Pressure Testing (Day 5–6) The system is pressurized for 2+ hours to check for leaks.
Inspection & Wall Repair (Final 1–3 days) City inspector approves work. Drywall, paint, or tile is restored.
🛠️ Expert Insight: “For 90% of homeowners today, PEX offers the best balance of cost, durability, and performance,” says Maria Lopez, Master Plumber with 18 years of experience in Chicago.
Signs You Really Need a Full Repipe
Don’t wait for a flood! Replace your plumbing if you notice:
Age: Homes built before 1970 likely have galvanized steel; pre-1990 may have polybutylene (known to fail).
Strange tastes or odors in tap water
⚠️ Warning: Polybutylene pipes (gray or blue plastic, common 1978–1995) are prone to sudden rupture. If you have them, repipe ASAP. Learn more on Wikipedia’s page on polybutylene .
FAQ: Your Top Questions Answered
Q: Can I repipe my house myself to save money?
A: Technically yes—but not recommended. Plumbing requires permits, pressure testing, and code compliance. A DIY mistake can cause leaks, mold, or failed inspections. Plus, most homeowner’s insurance won’t cover damage from unlicensed work.
Q: Does homeowners insurance cover plumbing replacement?
A: No—unless sudden damage (like a burst pipe) occurs. Routine wear-and-tear or aging pipes are not covered. However, insurance may cover resulting water damage if the failure was sudden and accidental.
Q: How long does new plumbing last?
A: PEX lasts 40–50 years; copper can exceed 70 years with proper water chemistry. Avoid acidic water (pH < 6.5) with copper—it causes corrosion.
Q: Will repiping increase my home’s value?
A: Indirectly, yes. Updated plumbing makes your home more attractive to buyers and prevents costly surprises during inspections. It won’t add dollar-for-dollar value, but it removes a major red flag.
Q: How do I find a trustworthy plumber?
A: Look for:
State license and insurance
5+ years of repipe experience
Reviews mentioning “clean,” “on-time,” and “transparent pricing”
Written warranty (at least 1 year on labor)
Q: Can I live in the house during a repipe?
A: Usually yes, but expect no running water for 1–3 days. Plan to shower elsewhere and use bottled water. Most plumbers restore partial water access by Day 2.
Conclusion
Knowing how much it is to replace plumbing in a house empowers you to act before small issues become disasters. While costs range from $4,000 to $15,000, choosing PEX, getting multiple quotes, and hiring a licensed pro ensures you get lasting value—not just a quick fix.
A repipe isn’t just about pipes—it’s about peace of mind, clean water, and protecting your biggest investment: your home.
👉 Found this guide helpful? Share it with a friend who’s dealing with leaky pipes! 💬 Have questions? Drop them in the comments below—we’ll answer every one.
Stay dry, stay informed, and never ignore that drip! 💧
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