Replacing or installing new plumbing in your home is a major decision—whether you’re renovating an older house or building from scratch. You’re probably asking, “How much to put new plumbing in a house?”—and rightly so. Costs can vary dramatically based on materials, labor, home size, and local regulations. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know to plan your budget confidently and avoid costly surprises.
What Does “New Plumbing” Actually Mean?
Before diving into costs, it’s important to clarify what “new plumbing” entails. It can mean:
Full repipe: Replacing all water supply and drain lines in an existing home.
Partial replacement: Updating only certain sections (e.g., kitchen or bathroom).
For this article, we’ll focus primarily on full repiping and new construction, as these represent the most comprehensive—and expensive—scenarios.
Average Cost to Install New Plumbing in a House (2024)
According to HomeAdvisor and Angi (formerly Angie’s List), the national average cost to install new plumbing in a house ranges from $4,000 to $15,000. However, this can climb to $20,000+ for large homes or complex layouts.
1,000 sq ft
$4,000 – $8,000
1,500 sq ft
$6,000 – $12,000
2,500+ sq ft
$10,000 – $20,000+
💡 Pro Tip: Labor typically accounts for 40–60% of the total cost. Always get multiple quotes from licensed plumbers.
Key Factors That Affect Plumbing Installation Costs
Understanding why costs vary helps you control your budget. Here are the top influencers:
1. Type of Piping Material
The material you choose impacts both upfront cost and long-term durability.
PEX
$0.40 – $2.00
40–50 years
Flexible, freeze-resistant, easy install
Not UV-resistant
Copper
$2.50 – $8.00
50–70 years
Durable, recyclable, high resale value
Expensive, prone to theft
CPVC
$0.50 – $2.00
50+ years
Corrosion-resistant, affordable
Brittle in cold temps
Galvanized Steel
$2.00 – $6.00
20–50 years
Strong
Prone to rust, outdated
PEX is now the most popular choice for new builds due to its affordability and ease of installation.
2. Home Size and Layout
More bathrooms, longer pipe runs, and multi-story homes increase labor and material needs. A ranch-style home is typically cheaper to plumb than a three-story townhouse.
3. Accessibility
If walls are already open (e.g., during a renovation), costs drop significantly. Repiping a finished home often requires drywall removal and repair—adding $1,000–$3,000 to your total.
4. Local Labor Rates
Plumbers in New York or San Francisco charge 20–40% more than those in rural Midwest areas. Always check local averages via sites like HomeAdvisor or Thumbtack .
5. Permits and Inspections
Most municipalities require plumbing permits ($100–$500) and inspections to ensure code compliance. Skipping this risks fines or failed home inspections later.
📌 Did You Know? The International Plumbing Code (IPC) sets national standards, but local codes may add extra requirements. Learn more on Wikipedia’s plumbing page .
Step-by-Step: What to Expect During a Full Plumbing Install
If you’re planning a repipe or new build, here’s what the process looks like:
Assessment & Planning (1–2 days) A licensed plumber inspects your home, reviews blueprints (for new builds), and designs the plumbing layout.
Permit Application (1–5 days) Submit plans to your local building department. Processing time varies by city.
Rough-In Installation (3–7 days) Pipes are installed before walls are closed. Includes water supply lines, drains, vents, and stub-outs for fixtures.
Inspection (1 day) A city inspector checks for code compliance before drywall goes up.
Final Fixtures & Trim-Out (2–4 days) Toilets, sinks, showers, and faucets are installed. Water is turned on and tested for leaks.
Cleanup & Walkthrough (1 day) Debris removal and final quality check with the homeowner.
✅ Best Practice: Always hire a plumber with at least 5 years of experience and proper licensing. Ask for proof of insurance to protect against accidents.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro: Is It Worth the Risk?
While YouTube tutorials make plumbing look simple, 90% of DIY plumbing projects result in leaks, code violations, or costly repairs within 2 years (per the National Association of Home Builders).
When DIY might work:
Replacing a faucet or toilet
Installing a water filter under the sink
When to call a pro:
Any work involving main water lines
Repiping entire sections
Gas line connections (illegal in many states without certification)
⚠️ Warning: Improper plumbing can lead to mold, structural damage, or even health hazards from contaminated water.
How to Save Money Without Sacrificing Quality
You don’t need to overspend to get reliable plumbing. Try these strategies:
Bundle projects: Combine plumbing with other renovations (e.g., kitchen remodel) to reduce labor costs.
Choose PEX over copper: Saves 30–50% on materials with similar performance.
Get 3+ quotes: Compare line-item estimates—not just totals.
Schedule off-season: Many plumbers offer discounts in winter (low demand).
Ask about warranties: Reputable companies offer 1–10 year warranties on workmanship.
FAQ Section
Q: How long does it take to install new plumbing in a house?
A: For a full repipe, expect 3–7 days. New construction plumbing takes 1–2 weeks, depending on home size and crew availability.
Q: Does homeowners insurance cover plumbing replacement?
A: Generally, no—unless sudden damage (like a burst pipe) occurs. Routine upgrades or aging pipe replacement are considered maintenance and aren’t covered.
Q: Can I live in the house during a repipe?
A: Yes, but expect no running water for 1–3 days. Some plumbers stage the work by zone to minimize disruption.
Q: What’s the cheapest way to repipe a house?
A: Use PEX piping and schedule work during a major renovation (so walls are already open). Avoid emergency weekend rates.
Q: How often should plumbing be replaced?
A: It depends on material:
Copper: 50–70 years
PEX/CPVC: 40–50 years
Galvanized steel: 20–50 years (replace ASAP if original)
Q: Will new plumbing increase my home’s value?
A: Yes—especially if replacing outdated or problematic systems (e.g., polybutylene pipes). Buyers favor homes with modern, leak-free plumbing.
Conclusion
Knowing how much to put new plumbing in a house isn’t just about the price tag—it’s about protecting your home, health, and investment. With average costs between $4,000 and $20,000, smart planning, material choices, and hiring qualified professionals make all the difference.
Don’t gamble with your home’s infrastructure. Use this guide to ask the right questions, compare quotes wisely, and invest in a system that lasts decades.
Found this helpful? Share it with a friend who’s renovating—or pin it for your next home project! 🛠️💧
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