Polybutylene Pipes Inside Your Home Warning

What are Polybutylene Pipes?

They are a form of plastic polymer that was used extensively in the manufacture of water supply piping from 1978 to 1995.

What is the problem?

Production was ceased in mid-1996 after allegations that the pipes were rupturing and causing property damage. Certain disinfectants/chemicals can react with the polybutylene and cause it to flake apart at any location within the PB system. Small fractures can deepen over time and eventually allow water to escape. Other claims are the majority of the leaks occur at joints and unions. Water pressure can also play a role in a faster deterioration in PB pipes.

Leaking can happen without warning and can result in flooding and serious property damage, including mold behind the sheetrock.

There was a Class-Action lawsuit filed against the PB manufacturers and resulted in payouts reaching $1 billion.

How Does this Affect Selling My Home?

The existence of PB pipes can reduce the value of a home.

New Buyers may not be able to get Homeowner Insurance to cover damage from burst pipes, if they can get coverage at all.

Lenders may not lend on homes with PB pipes. If an FHA appraiser flags it they could note it as a hazardous issue.

How Much Does it Cost to Replace PB Pipes?

Please consult with a plumber for a more exact quote for your home. This is simply a guideline.

• The estimated cost of replacing PB runs from $1500 – $8000 with PEX pipes.
• The estimated cost of replacing PB runs from $2500 – $15,000 with copper pipes.

DUFFY Realty highly recommends if you are not willing to replace these pipes that you require all lending goes through our preferred lender, Peachtree Home Loans so Steve Quarles can closely monitor the lending process.