If you’re staring at leaky pipes, low water pressure, or rusty fixtures, you might be wondering: how much to redo plumbing in entire house? It’s a big decision—both emotionally and financially—but one that can prevent costly emergencies and boost your home’s value. Whether you’re in an aging 1970s ranch or a fixer-upper with galvanized pipes nearing failure, this guide gives you realistic, up-to-date costs based on 2025 data, contractor insights, and regional pricing trends.
What Does “Redoing Plumbing in Entire House” Actually Mean?
Redoing (or “re-piping”) your home’s plumbing means replacing all water supply lines—and sometimes drain lines—from the main shutoff valve to every faucet, shower, and appliance. This isn’t a minor fix; it’s a full-system overhaul typically needed when:
- Pipes are made of galvanized steel (common in homes built before 1980)
- You have polybutylene pipes (used 1978–1995, prone to bursting)
- Frequent leaks, corrosion, or water discoloration occur
- You’re renovating and walls are already open
💡 Note: Most full repipes focus on supply lines (hot/cold water). Replacing drain-waste-vent (DWV) pipes adds significant cost and is usually only done if severely damaged.
How Much Does It Cost to Repipe an Entire House in 2025?
According to HomeAdvisor’s 2025 National Cost Report and data from Angi (formerly Angie’s List), the average cost to redo plumbing in an entire house ranges from $4,000 to $15,000, with a national median of $8,500.
But your actual cost depends heavily on four key factors:
1. House Size
- Small home (under 1,000 sq ft): $4,000–$7,000
- Medium home (1,000–2,500 sq ft): $6,000–$12,000
- Large home (2,500+ sq ft): $10,000–$20,000+
2. Pipe Material Chosen
| PEX | $0.40–$2.00 | 40–50 yrs | Flexible, freeze-resistant, easy install | Not UV-resistant; not allowed in some municipalities |
| Copper | $2.50–$6.00 | 50–70 yrs | Durable, recyclable, adds home value | Expensive; labor-intensive |
| CPVC | $0.50–$2.00 | 50+ yrs | Affordable, handles hot water well | Brittle in cold temps; less flexible |
💬 Expert Insight: “PEX is now the go-to for 80% of repipe jobs,” says Michael Torres, master plumber with 22 years of experience in Phoenix. “It’s faster to install, reduces wall damage, and costs 30–50% less than copper—without sacrificing performance.”
3. Accessibility & Home Layout
Homes with open walls, basements, or crawlspace access cost 20–30% less than homes with finished walls, second stories, or slab foundations. Slab homes may require trenching or overhead routing, adding $1,500–$4,000.
4. Location (Labor Rates)
- Low-cost states (e.g., Alabama, Ohio): $4–$6/sq ft
- High-cost states (e.g., California, New York): $8–$12/sq ft
Labor can account for 60–70% of your total bill.
Step-by-Step: What Happens During a Full Repipe?
A professional repipe typically takes 2–5 days and follows this process:
- Shut off main water and drain existing system
- Demolish access points (small drywall cutouts near fixtures)
- Remove old pipes (copper, galvanized, or polybutylene)
- Install new supply lines (usually PEX or copper)
- Reconnect to fixtures, water heater, and main line
- Pressure-test system for leaks (minimum 80 PSI for 2+ hours)
- Patch drywall, clean up, and schedule inspection
✅ Pro Tip: Ask your contractor to use home-run PEX manifolds—they reduce water waste, improve pressure, and simplify future repairs. Learn more about plumbing systems on Wikipedia .
Should You Repipe or Just Repair?
Not every plumbing issue requires a full replacement. Consider these signs you do need a full repipe:
- Age: Pipes older than 50 years (galvanized) or 25 years (polybutylene)
- Multiple leaks in different areas within 12 months
- Low water pressure that doesn’t improve with aerator cleaning
- Discolored water (brown or rusty) even after flushing
- High water bills without obvious leaks
If you only have one or two leaky joints, a localized repair ($150–$500) may suffice.
How to Save Money on a Whole-House Repipe
- Get 3+ quotes from licensed, insured plumbers—prices can vary by 40%
- Bundle with renovations: If you’re remodeling a kitchen or bathroom, piggyback the repipe to avoid duplicate drywall work
- Choose PEX over copper: Save $3,000–$7,000 on materials and labor
- Schedule off-season: Winter (non-emergency months) may offer 10–15% discounts
- Check for insurance coverage: Some policies cover sudden pipe bursts—but not gradual corrosion
Common Mistakes Homeowners Make
- Delaying action: Ignoring small leaks leads to mold, foundation damage, or insurance denial
- Hiring unlicensed handymen: Improper installs can fail inspection or cause floods
- Skipping permits: Most cities require plumbing permits for full repipes—unpermitted work voids home insurance
- Not getting a warranty: Reputable companies offer 10–25 year warranties on PEX/copper work
FAQ Section
Q1: How long does it take to redo plumbing in an entire house?
A: Most full repipes take 2 to 5 days for a 2,000 sq ft home. Slab foundations or complex layouts may extend to 7–10 days.
Q2: Will my homeowners insurance cover repiping?
A: Typically no—insurance covers sudden, accidental damage (like a burst pipe), not preventive maintenance or aging system replacement. However, if a leak causes damage, the repair portion may be covered.
Q3: Can I live in the house during a repipe?
A: Yes, but expect no running water for 1–2 days. Most contractors restore partial water access by evening. Plan to eat out and use neighbors’ bathrooms if needed.
Q4: Does repiping increase home value?
A: Indirectly, yes. Updated plumbing prevents sale delays, avoids inspection red flags, and reassures buyers. While it may not add $15,000 to resale, it eliminates a $10,000+ negotiation penalty.
Q5: What’s the cheapest way to repipe a house?
A: Use PEX tubing with a home-run manifold system, hire a licensed plumber during off-peak season, and minimize wall demolition by routing through attics or basements.
Q6: How do I know if my house has polybutylene pipes?
A: Look for gray, white, or blue plastic pipes with “PB2110” stamped on them, typically near the water heater or where pipes enter the home. Common in homes built between 1978 and 1995.
Final Thoughts
Understanding how much to redo plumbing in entire house isn’t just about cost—it’s about protecting your biggest investment. While the upfront price may seem steep, a full repipe eliminates constant repairs, improves water quality, and gives you peace of mind for decades.
If your home is over 40 years old or shows multiple warning signs, don’t wait for a disaster. Get a professional inspection and compare quotes today.
🔗 Found this guide helpful? Share it with a friend who’s renovating—or pin it for your next home project! #HomeRenovation #PlumbingTips #SmartHomeInvesting
Leave a Reply