How Much to Redo the Plumbing in an Old House? (2026 Guide)

If you’ve just bought a charming century-old home—or you’re finally tackling long-overdue updates—you might be asking: how much to redo the plumbing in an old house? Outdated pipes can lead to leaks, low water pressure, or even health hazards like lead contamination. You’re not alone—many homeowners face this costly but necessary decision. The good news? With the right info, you can budget wisely and avoid nasty surprises.

Why Does Old House Plumbing Need Replacement?

Older homes—especially those built before 1970—often contain materials that are now obsolete or unsafe. Common culprits include:

• Galvanized steel pipes (prone to rust and corrosion)
• Lead pipes (banned due to toxicity; still found in pre-1930s homes)
• Polybutylene piping (used 1978–1995; known to fail unexpectedly)

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), lead service lines still exist in an estimated 9 million U.S. homes, posing serious health risks—especially to children. Replacing outdated plumbing isn’t just about convenience; it’s about safety and long-term value.

💡 Fun fact: The average lifespan of galvanized steel pipes is 20–50 years. If your house is 80+ years old, those pipes are likely on borrowed time.

How Much Does It Cost to Redo Plumbing in an Old House? (2026 Pricing)

The national average cost to redo the plumbing in an old house ranges from $4,000 to $15,000, but several factors dramatically influence the final price:

Breakdown by Material:

• PEX (cross-linked polyethylene): Most affordable and flexible. Ideal for retrofits. Costs $0.40–$2.00 per linear foot.
• Copper: Durable and long-lasting, but expensive. Runs $2.50–$8.00 per linear foot.
• CPVC: Cheaper than copper but less durable. Rarely used in full-house repipes today.

📌 Source: HomeAdvisor’s 2025 Cost Guide & Angi’s National Plumbing Data

What Affects the Total Cost? (Beyond Square Footage)

1. Wall and Floor Access

In older homes, pipes often run through walls, under floors, or inside plaster. Opening these up adds labor and restoration costs. Expect $1,000–$5,000 extra for drywall repair, painting, or flooring replacement.

2. Location of Main Lines

If your main sewer line or water supply runs under a concrete slab or through a finished basement, excavation may be needed—adding $2,000–$8,000.

3. Local Labor Rates

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

4. Permits and Code Compliance

Most cities require permits for full repiping. Skipping this risks failed inspections and insurance issues. Check your local building codes via your municipal website.

Step-by-Step: How a Full Plumbing Repipe Works

1. Inspection & Assessment
   A licensed plumber uses cameras and pressure tests to map existing pipes and identify problem zones.
2. Permit Application
   Submit plans to your city’s building department. Approval takes 3–10 business days.
3. Shut Off Water & Drain System
   The main water valve is closed, and all lines are emptied.
4. Remove Old Pipes
   Sections of walls/floors are opened strategically. Asbestos or lead paint may require abatement (extra cost).
5. Install New Pipes
   PEX is typically run from a central manifold (like electrical wiring). Copper requires soldering at each joint.
6. Pressure Test & Inspection
   The system is pressurized for 24 hours. A city inspector verifies code compliance.
7. Restore Walls & Clean Up
   Drywall, trim, and paint are repaired. Debris is removed.

⏱️ Timeline: Most full-house repipes take 3–7 days for a 2,000 sq ft home.

PEX vs. Copper: Which Should You Choose?

Verdict: For most old-house owners, PEX is the smart choice—it’s cheaper, faster to install, and handles temperature shifts better. However, if you’re restoring a historic home where authenticity matters, copper may align better with preservation standards.

Hidden Costs to Watch For

Don’t get blindsided! These often-overlooked expenses can add 10–25% to your budget:

• Asbestos abatement (if insulation around pipes contains asbestos)
• Electrical rerouting (if wires share wall cavities with pipes)
• Temporary relocation (if kitchen/bathrooms are unusable for days)
• Water softener or filtration upgrades (recommended with new plumbing)

Always ask for a detailed line-item quote—not just a lump sum.

How to Save Money Without Sacrificing Quality

• Bundle with other renovations (e.g., kitchen remodel) to reduce demo costs.
• Choose PEX over copper unless required by local code.
• Get multiple quotes—prices can vary by 30% between contractors.
• Ask about off-season discounts (winter = slower season for plumbers).
• Verify licenses and insurance—avoid “handyman” deals that skip permits.

🔍 Pro Tip: Use the EPA’s Lead Service Line Inventory Map to check if your area has known lead pipes.

FAQ Section

Q1: How long does it take to redo plumbing in an old house?

A: Typically 3–7 days for a full repipe of a 1,500–2,500 sq ft home. Complex layouts or unexpected issues (like asbestos) can extend this to 2 weeks.

Q2: Can I live in the house during the repipe?

A: Yes, but with limitations. You’ll lose water access for 1–3 days. Plan for portable toilets, bottled water, and eating out. Some contractors offer temporary water hookups.

Q3: Does homeowners insurance cover plumbing replacement?

A: No—insurance covers sudden damage (e.g., burst pipes), not preventative upgrades. However, a new plumbing system may lower your premium by reducing risk.

Q4: Will new plumbing increase my home’s value?

A: Yes! A full repipe can add 3–5% to resale value, especially if replacing lead or polybutylene. Buyers prefer move-in-ready systems with warranties.

Q5: How do I know if my house needs a full repipe?

A: Warning signs include:

• Frequent leaks or low water pressure
• Discolored (rusty) water
• Pipes over 50 years old
• History of slab leaks
• Unexplained spikes in water bills

Q6: Is PEX safe for drinking water?

A: Yes. PEX is NSF-certified and widely used in residential plumbing. It doesn’t leach harmful chemicals when installed correctly.

Conclusion

Knowing how much to redo the plumbing in an old house empowers you to make smart, safe, and financially sound decisions. While costs range from $4,000 to $20,000+, the investment protects your health, prevents water damage, and boosts your home’s value. Don’t delay—outdated pipes won’t fix themselves.

👉 Found this guide helpful? Share it with a friend renovating an old home! Tag them on Facebook, Pinterest, or Instagram—because everyone deserves safe, reliable water.

Stay informed. Stay safe. And happy renovating! 💧🏠