How Much To Replace Plumbing In House ?
If you own an older home or are dealing with frequent leaks, low water pressure, or discolored water, you may be asking a big question: how much to replace plumbing in a house?
Replacing an entire plumbing system is a major project, but in many cases, it’s the smartest long-term fix. This guide breaks down real costs, what affects the price, and how to plan the job without surprises.
Average Cost To Replace Plumbing In a House
For most homes, replacing plumbing costs between $4,000 and $15,000. Larger homes, older materials, or complex layouts can push costs to $20,000 or more.
Here’s a general cost range:
| Home Size | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Small home (1–2 bathrooms) | $4,000 – $8,000 |
| Medium home (2–3 bathrooms) | $8,000 – $15,000 |
| Large home (3+ bathrooms) | $15,000 – $25,000+ |
Partial replacements cost less, while full repipes cost more.
What Does “Replacing Plumbing” Mean?
Replacing plumbing usually involves a full or partial repipe, not just fixing leaks.
A Full Plumbing Replacement Includes:
- New water supply lines
- New drain, waste, and vent pipes
- Removal or abandonment of old pipes
- Pressure testing and inspections
Fixtures like toilets and sinks are often reused unless you choose to upgrade.
Why Homeowners Replace Plumbing
Common reasons include:
- Old galvanized or polybutylene pipes
- Frequent leaks or burst pipes
- Rust-colored or smelly water
- Low water pressure
- Renovation or resale preparation
If repairs are constant, replacement is usually cheaper long term.
Major Factors That Affect Plumbing Replacement Cost
1. Size of the House
More square footage means:
- More pipe length
- More labor
- Higher material costs
Bathrooms and kitchens drive costs more than bedrooms.
2. Number of Bathrooms and Fixtures
Each bathroom adds:
- Supply lines
- Drain lines
- Vent connections
Kitchens, laundry rooms, and outdoor lines also increase total cost.
3. Type of Pipe Being Replaced
Older homes often contain:
| Old Pipe Type | Replacement Urgency |
|---|---|
| Galvanized steel | Very high |
| Polybutylene | Critical |
| Cast iron | High |
| Copper (older) | Medium |
These materials are more expensive to remove and replace.
4. New Pipe Material Choice
| New Pipe | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| PEX | Low | Most common, flexible, fast install |
| CPVC | Medium | Durable, rigid |
| Copper | High | Long lifespan, higher labor |
PEX is the most affordable and popular option today.
5. Accessibility
Costs rise if:
- Pipes are behind plaster or tile
- Home has slab foundation
- Multiple floors are involved
Open crawlspaces and basements reduce labor time.
6. Drain Line Replacement vs Supply Lines
- Water supply lines: $2,000 – $8,000
- Drain and sewer lines: $3,000 – $12,000+
Replacing drain pipes costs more due to demolition and labor.
Plumbing Replacement Cost by House Type
Slab Foundation Homes
- More concrete cutting
- Higher labor
- Often $2,000–$5,000 more than crawlspace homes
Crawlspace Homes
- Easier access
- Faster installation
- Lower overall cost
Multi-Story Homes
- More vertical piping
- More venting
- Higher labor time
Partial Plumbing Replacement Costs
If a full repipe isn’t needed, partial replacement may be an option.
| Job | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Replace water supply only | $2,000 – $6,000 |
| Replace drain lines only | $3,000 – $10,000 |
| Replace pipes in one bathroom | $1,500 – $4,000 |
| Replace main water line | $1,500 – $4,000 |
A licensed plumber can advise if partial replacement is safe.
Hidden Costs to Watch For
Many homeowners underestimate these items:
- Wall and ceiling repairs
- Flooring removal and replacement
- Permit and inspection fees
- Mold remediation
- Upgrading shut-off valves
Always ask what restoration is included in the quote.
How Long Does It Take to Replace Plumbing?
Typical timelines:
- Small home: 2–4 days
- Medium home: 4–7 days
- Large home: 1–2 weeks
Water may be shut off during parts of the project, but good plumbers minimize downtime.
Is Replacing Plumbing Worth It?
In most cases, yes.
Benefits include:
- Fewer leaks and emergencies
- Better water pressure
- Improved water quality
- Higher resale value
- Lower insurance risk
Buyers and inspectors view new plumbing as a major plus.
How To Save Money on Plumbing Replacement
1. Choose PEX
PEX reduces labor time and material cost.
2. Replace During Renovations
Walls are already open, lowering repair costs.
3. Get Multiple Quotes
Compare scope, not just price.
4. Fix Access Issues Early
Clear crawlspaces and basements beforehand.
Should You Replace Plumbing Before Selling a House?
If your home has outdated pipes, replacing them can:
- Increase buyer confidence
- Speed up the sale
- Prevent inspection issues
