How Much Does Repiping Cost? Homeowner's Price Guide

Intro

Repiping is a big project for any homeowner. It fixes long-term leaks, low water pressure, rusty water, and old materials that fail. We know it can feel urgent — and expensive. This guide explains what repiping usually includes, what controls the price, and how to tell a solid bid from one that will add surprise costs later.

Burger Plumbing handles emergency plumbing and whole-house repipes. Read on to learn how to estimate your job, what questions to ask bidders, and how to prepare your home for the work.

What repiping includes — demo, new piping, connections, restoration 🛠️

Repiping replaces parts or all of the water supply pipes in a home. A typical full repipe includes:

• Initial inspection and pressure test.
• Localized demo: cutting access points in walls, ceilings, or floors.
• Removal of old pipe material (copper, galvanized, lead, or old CPVC).
• Installation of new piping runs and branch lines.
• New connections to fixtures, water heater, and main shutoff.
• Replacement or updating of valves and stops at fixtures.
• Pressure testing and water quality checks.
• Closure of access points and restoration work (patching drywall, repainting where agreed).
• Final inspection by local building department if required.

What’s not always included (ask for it in writing):

• Major drywall or flooring replacement beyond patching.
• Cabinet removal and reinstall when needed for access.
• Structural repairs if joists or studs are altered.
• Permit fees and inspection costs (usually listed separately).

A contractor’s written estimate should list each of the items above and whether they include demo, hookup to appliances, and restoration.

Problem / Scenario

When do homeowners need repiping?

Common scenarios:

• Recurrent leaks in different places of the house.
• Visible corrosion or flaking on exposed pipes.
• Rusty or discolored water from taps.
• Low water pressure that isn’t fixed by fixture replacement.
• Galvanized steel or lead pipes in older homes.
• Multiple slab leaks (pipes under concrete slab failing).
• Frequent soldered-joint failures in copper systems.

Partial repipe scenarios:

• If only the branch lines to one bathroom are failing, a partial repipe can be a cost-effective short-term fix.
• If the main supply is damaged or the home has known hazardous materials (lead), consider a full repipe.

If you have emergency plumbing needs — sudden flooding, a burst pipe, or major leak — stop the water at the main valve and call for immediate help. Emergency Plumbing near you can prevent major damage.

Quick safety checklist

Before work begins, check these items:

• Permit: Confirm whether a municipal permit is required for repiping.
• Licensed contractor: Verify state or local plumbing license number.
• Insurance: Ask for proof of liability insurance and worker’s compensation.
• Utilities: Mark gas, electric, and communication lines before cutting.
• Water shutoff plan: Know where the main shutoff is and how long your contractor will need it closed.
• Lead precautions: For older homes, ask about lead-safe work practices.
• HVAC/electrical coordination: Ensure other trades are scheduled if needed.

Authoritative references: International Plumbing Code, EPA Lead and Copper Rule, and local building department rules govern safety and testing requirements.

DIY vs. Call a Pro

When it might be okay to DIY:

• Small, localized repairs on accessible piping with basic skills.
• Replacing a short stretch of PEX under a sink with no structural changes.

When to call a professional:

• Full or multi-room repipes.
• Slab leaks, corroded supply mains, or multiple leaks.
• Working near gas lines, electrical systems, or HVAC ducting.
• Jobs requiring permits and final inspections.
• Any emergency plumbing situation with active flooding or structural risk.

Why call a pro:

• Licensed plumbers handle permits, inspections, and code compliance.
• Professionals have specialized tools (pipe locators, camera inspection, pressure testing gear).
• Pros can provide a written scope, timeline, and itemized estimate to reduce surprises.

DIY attempts on large jobs often lead to higher final costs if work fails inspection or causes damage.

What pros do on arrival

A clear, professional crew will typically:

• Walk the home with you and document problem areas.
• Inspect visible piping and use a camera or locator for hidden lines.
• Test water pressure and do a cavity inspection where needed.
• Identify the type of existing piping (galvanized, copper, lead, PEX, CPVC).
• Explain repair options: partial repipe, whole-house repipe, or targeted repairs.
• Provide an itemized estimate and timeline.
• Discuss restoration needs: drywall, paint, flooring, cabinet work.
• Schedule permit pull and inspection if required.
• Outline temporary water arrangements during the repipe (e.g., temporary shutoff schedule or bottled water).

A good arrival routine reduces surprises and shows the contractor knows the job flow.

Prevention & Maintenance

Repiping fixes the core problem, but maintenance keeps it working:

• Regularly inspect exposed pipes for corrosion or drips.
• Install or check pressure-reducing valves (PRVs) if city pressure is high.
• Flush water heater annually to reduce sediment and stress on supply lines.
• Keep supply lines insulated in cold areas to prevent freezing.
• Use strainers and avoid flushing grease to reduce stress on fixtures and sewer lines.
• Schedule preventative checkups every 3–5 years for older systems.

Following manufacturer instructions and local code helps prolong pipe life. Consult the International Plumbing Code for long-term safety and installation standards.

Cost factors — home size, pipe material, accessibility, bathrooms/kitchens, labor rates

Major cost drivers:

• Pipe material: Copper, PEX, or CPVC each differ in material and labor cost.
  • Copper: Higher material costs and labor (soldering, fittings), durable, good for hot water. More expensive in both material and labor.
  • PEX: Lower material and labor cost, flexible (fewer joints), faster install, good corrosion resistance. Becoming the most common choice.
  • CPVC: Mid-range option, less flexible than PEX, can be used for hot water, but has fallen out of favor in many markets.
• Home size and layout: Square footage and number of floors increase the amount of pipe and labor.
• Number of bathrooms and kitchens: More fixtures mean more branch lines, valves, and time.
• Accessibility: Easy access (unfinished basements, utility chases) cuts labor hours. Walls, ceilings, or concrete slab work add cost.
• Slab work: Replacing pipes under a concrete slab involves breaking and replacing concrete — a major cost.
• Local labor rates and permit fees: Urban areas and high-cost regions have higher hourly labor rates and permit costs. Permit fees vary widely by jurisdiction.
• Age and condition of existing infrastructure: If lead, galvanized steel, or other hazardous materials are present, removal and disposal costs go up.
• Code requirements and inspection: Some jurisdictions require updated backflow prevention devices or shutoffs, which add cost.
• Restoration: Cosmetic repair — drywall, paint, tile — may be billed separately or included depending on contract.

Cost per linear foot:

• For material and install alone, expect broad ranges depending on region and material:
  • PEX: Often lower per linear foot (material + labor).
  • Copper: Typically 2x–3x the material cost of PEX and higher labor.
• Contractors typically estimate materials and labor by runs and fixture count rather than simple linear footage because of bends, fittings, and access challenges.

Why cheap estimates can mean hidden charges:

• Low bids may omit restoration, permit fees, or disposal.
• They may underestimate access difficulty, leading to change orders.
• Cheap labor or unlicensed work can fail inspection, requiring rework.
• Ask for itemized bids and compare line-by-line.

Typical price ranges with examples for 1,000–3,000 sq ft homes

Note: Local prices vary. These ranges reflect typical U.S. market conditions and are for budgeting only.

• 1,000 sq ft home (1 bath, compact layout)

  • Partial repipe (single bathroom branch or kitchen): $800–$3,000.
  • Full repipe with PEX: $4,000–$8,000.
  • Full repipe with copper: $8,000–$15,000.

• 1,500–2,000 sq ft home (2–3 baths)

  • Partial repipe (multiple rooms): $2,500–$6,000.
  • Full repipe with PEX: $6,000–$12,000.
  • Full repipe with copper: $10,000–$20,000.

• 2,500–3,000 sq ft home (3+ baths, multi-level)

  • Partial repipe: $4,000–$8,000.
  • Full repipe with PEX: $10,000–$20,000.
  • Full repipe with copper: $15,000–$30,000+.

Sample scenarios:

• Small bungalow, PEX full repipe, exposed crawlspace access: a straightforward job might be near the low end for PEX.
• Two-story home with plaster walls, kitchen island, and slab lines needing reroute: expect higher labor, opening/patching, and possibly slab work—this can push copper jobs well into $20k–$30k range.
• Historic home with lead or hidden knob-and-tube wiring: removals that require special handling or coordination with other trades increase cost.

Sample invoice breakdown (example items you should see on a bid):

• Labor: hours and hourly rate or flat labor line.
• Material: piping (PEX or copper), fittings, valves, connectors.
• Fixtures: shutoff valves, replacement stops (if included).
• Water heater connection or reconnection fee.
• Permit fee (listed separately).
• Disposal and hazardous material handling (if applicable).
• Restoration: drywall patching, painting (line-item or hourly).
• Tax.

Ask contractors for a sample invoice so you can compare apples to apples.

Timeline and disruption — staging, permits, inspection

Typical timeline:

• Estimate and scheduling: 1–2 weeks for a detailed bid and permit pull.
• Permit approval: Hours to a few weeks depending on local department.
• Prep and staging: 1 day to set up work areas, protect floors, and move furniture.
• Repiping work: For full repipes, most homes take 3–7 days of active work depending on size and access.
• Pressure testing and inspections: Typically done on completion of rough-in and again on final connections if required.
• Restoration: Patching drywall and paint may add 1–3 days.

Disruption points:

• Water shutdowns: You may be without water for several hours to a day during critical phases.
• Noise and dust: Demo and cutting create debris. Contractors should protect floors and vents.
• Access rooms: Bathrooms and kitchens may be out of service for parts of the job.
• Scheduling other trades: If the job requires electrician or carpenter work, coordinate schedules early.

Permits and inspections:

• Most jurisdictions require a plumbing permit for repiping.
• Inspections are often required at rough-in and final stages.
• Permit fees and inspection timelines differ by city or county; factor this into scheduling.

Historic homes:

• Historic properties often have plaster walls, non-standard framing, or protected exteriors. Plan additional time and a higher restoration budget.
• Local historic districts may require review prior to exterior work like cutting into walls that affect the facade.

How to evaluate quotes — warranties, license, insurance, references

What to look for in a quality bid:

• Itemized estimate: Materials, labor, permits, restoration, and exclusions clearly listed.
• License and insurance: Contractor license number, liability insurance, and worker’s comp proof.
• Warranty terms: Ask what parts and labor the contractor covers and for how long. A warranty offer should be written and specific.
• References and case studies: Request recent repipe references or sample job summaries with before/after photos.
• Sample invoice: See how final billing is presented.
• Timeline and payment schedule: Avoid large upfront payments. A reasonable deposit with milestone payments is standard.
• Subcontractors: If other trades are used, know who they are and their credentials.
• Code compliance: Confirm that the work will meet the International Plumbing Code or local equivalent and that inspections will be scheduled.
• Change-order policy: How will unexpected work be approved and priced?

Red flags:

• Very low bids with vague scopes.
• No permit or inspection plan.
• Pressure to sign quickly or demand for cash-only payments.
• No written warranty or certificate of insurance.

Signs of a reputable repiping contractor (like Burger Plumbing):

• Clear written scope and itemized pricing.
• Willingness to show license and current insurance.
• References from recent whole-house repipe jobs.
• Transparent communication about expected disruptions and restoration.
• Knowledge of local codes and inspection process.

Costs & Time Factors (ranges, not quotes)

Key variables repeated with practical notes:

• Material choices:

  • PEX: Faster install, lower labor, flexible. Good for retrofit and whole-house repipes.
  • Copper: Higher cost but long lifespan. More labor for soldering and fittings.
  • CPVC: Older option—less common today.

• Work complexity:

  • Open access (basement) — cheaper and faster.
  • Wall and ceiling cuts — higher labor, more restoration.
  • Slab work — major cost increase due to concrete breaking and repair.

• Number of fixtures:

  • Each fixture adds valves, stub-outs, and labor.
  • Kitchens and laundry setups often add complexity due to appliances and multiple fixtures.

• Inspections and permits:

  • Budget time for permit turnaround. Some jurisdictions offer expedited service for a fee.

Ballpark timelines:

• Small partial repipe: 1–3 days.
• Typical whole-house repipe (accessible basement/attic): 3–7 working days.
• Complex multi-level slab-involved repipe: 2+ weeks including concrete work and drying time.

When it’s an emergency

Signs you need emergency help (call immediately):

• Active flooding that you cannot stop at the main shutoff.
• Rapid, large leaks that threaten structure or electrical systems.
• Sewage backup flowing into living spaces.
• Gas smell during plumbing work (stop and call gas utility and plumber).
• Burst pipe in cold weather causing major water release.

If you see any of these, shut off the water at the main valve and call for immediate assistance. For fast help, search for Emergency Plumbing near you or contact a local emergency plumbing service.

Local / Seasonal considerations

Regional variance:

• Labor rates: Urban centers typically have higher labor rates than rural areas.
• Permit fees: City permit costs can be 2–5% of a project in some places, or fixed flat fees elsewhere.
• Material cost fluctuation: Copper pricing can spike, raising overall cost quickly.
• Climate impacts: Cold climates need better insulation and freeze protection; winter work may add time or require temporary heat.
• Historic districts: Additional approvals or special permit processes can lengthen project time and cost.

Seasonal notes:

• Winter: Risk of frozen pipes and slower inspection turnaround; scheduling may be harder.
• Spring/fall: Common times for home projects; contractor calendars fill quickly.
• Local utility programs: Some areas offer low-interest loans or rebates for home improvements that reduce water waste — check with municipal water utility.

When partial repipe is acceptable

Partial repiping can be a practical option when:

• Only branch lines to a single bathroom or kitchen show failure.
• The main supply and most of the system are newer material (PEX or copper) and in good shape.
• You’re fixing a specific problem and plan staged upgrades over time.

Limitations of partial repipe:

• May leave old piping that will fail later, requiring another project.
• Mixed materials (old and new pipes) can cause confusion and may affect pressure behavior.
• If hazardous materials like lead or heavily corroded galvanized are present, a full repipe is often safer.

Ask the contractor to map the existing system and explain what a partial repipe will and will not solve.

Tax & financing options

Financing choices:

• Home equity loan or HELOC: Often used for major home repairs; interest may be lower than other loans.
• Personal loan or home improvement loan: Fixed terms and predictable payments.
• Contractor financing: Some contractors offer financing plans; read terms carefully.
• Credit cards: Useful for smaller balances but watch interest rates.

Tax considerations:

• Repiping is usually a home improvement expense and is not generally tax-deductible for most homeowners.
• If you rent out the property, certain improvements may be depreciable—check with a tax professional.
• For health or accessibility-related modifications, some costs might qualify under medical expense rules. Consult a tax advisor.

Always verify financing terms and possible tax implications with lenders and a tax professional.

FAQ

Q: How long does repiping last? A: Life expectancy varies by material. Copper and PEX can last decades when installed correctly. Local water quality and pressure affect lifespan.

Q: Can repiping increase my home value? A: A modern, code-compliant plumbing system can make your home more attractive to buyers and reduce inspection issues during sale. It does not always add dollar-for-dollar to appraised value but helps sellability.

Q: Do I need to replace my water heater during repipe? A: Not always. If the water heater is old or has sediment issues, this may be a good time to replace it. At minimum, plan to reconnect it and pressure-test all connections.

Q: Should I get multiple bids? A: Yes. Get at least three written, itemized bids. Compare the scope, materials, and what’s included to avoid surprises.

Case studies & sample invoices (transparency examples)

Case study summary 1 — Small bungalow (partial repipe)

• Problem: Frequent leaks in a 1940s bungalow affecting one bathroom and kitchen.
• Solution: Partial repipe replacing branch lines with PEX, new shutoffs at fixtures, pressure test.
• Time: 2 days.
• Cost: Mid-range for partial repipe; included minor drywall patching.
• Outcome: Leaks stopped; lower visible restoration cost.

Case study summary 2 — Two-story home (full repipe)

• Problem: Galvanized pipes causing low pressure and rusty water in a 2,200 sq ft home.
• Solution: Whole-house repipe with PEX; new shutoffs and manifold; water heater reconnection.
• Time: 5 days on-site; 2 inspections.
• Cost: Higher due to multi-level access and fixture count; restoration negotiated separately.
• Outcome: Improved pressure and water clarity. Buyer feedback was positive when home sold later.

Sample invoice (abridged example lines):

• Labor (40 hrs @ $85/hr): $3,400
• PEX materials and fittings: $1,200
• Valves and fixture reconnections: $450
• Permit fee: $300
• Disposal and hazardous material handling: $150
• Drywall patching and paint (2 rooms): $900
• Sales tax: $288
• Total: $6,688

Ask contractors for a similar line-item estimate to compare bids.

References & code notes

Reference sources to consult:

• International Plumbing Code (for installation and testing standards).
• EPA — Lead and Copper Rule (if your home has lead service lines).
• Local building department (for permit and inspection requirements).
• OSHA (jobsite safety practices).
• Manufacturer instructions for piping systems (PEX and copper installation guidance).

These resources inform code requirements and safe installation practices.

Signs of a reputable repiping contractor

Look for:

• Clear, written, itemized scope and pricing.
• Proper licensing and insurance documentation.
• Ability to show past repipe jobs and references.
• Open communication about permits and inspections.
• Reasonable payment schedule and change-order policy.
• Knowledge of local codes and safety standards.
• Willingness to provide a written warranty on parts and labor (ask for details).

Burger Plumbing recommends asking your bidders to walk you through one sample specific to your home layout so you can compare methods and restoration plans side-by-side.

Closing notes

Repiping is a significant investment in your home’s plumbing health. Material choice, access, and local labor/permit costs have big impact on the final price. Get multiple itemized bids, verify licenses and insurance, and plan for downtime and restoration work.

If you have emergency plumbing needs or want an on-site assessment, we respond to urgent issues and scheduled repipe estimates. Prepare a list of questions for bidders: scope, materials, timeline, permits, restoration, and sample invoices.

Call Burger Plumbing now — or reach us anytime at  1-877-778-5124 .