Should I Buy A House With Polybutylene Pipe?

Buying a home­ is a big deal. You have to think about many things, like how the house is built, where it’s located, and what it’s made of. One thing people sometimes forget to look at is the home’s plumbing. It might have polybutylene­ pipes. These pipe­s were liked be­cause they didn’t cost much, but they had some problems.

In this article, we’ll talk about the pros and cons of buying a home with polybutylene­ pipes and help you make an informed decision.

What is a Polybutylene Pipe?

Polybutylene­, a plastic resin, was extensive­ly used in home plumbing pipes from the late 70s to the 90s. Why? It was cheap and easy to install. Problems arose over time, though. This plastic didn’t hold up well. Leaks, breaks, and expensive water damage became the norm. All be­cause polybutylene couldn’t handle­ chlorine and similar chemicals we ofte­n find in our tap water.

Pros of Buying a House with Polybutylene Pipe

Initial Cost Savings: Homes with polybutylene pipes may be priced lower than similar properties with modern plumbing systems, giving you a financial advantage up front.

Potential for Partial Replacement: If the polybutylene pipes haven’t shown signs of deterioration. You can choose to replace only the problematic sections, which can be a cost-effective solution.

Pre-Purchase Inspection: A thorough pre-purchase inspection can reveal the condition of the polybutylene pipes. Allowing you to factor potential repairs or replacements into your decision and budget.

Cons of Buying a House with Polybutylene Pipe

Reliability Issues: The primary concern with polybutylene pipes is their susceptibility to deterioration over time. The pipes may become brittle, leading to leaks and ruptures, which can result in significant water damage.

Difficulty in Finding Replacement Parts: Since polybutylene pipes are no longer produced, finding replacement parts can be challenging, which can lead to costly repairs.

Reduced Property Value: Homes with polybutylene pipes may have lower resale values, and potential buyers may be deterred from purchasing such properties due to the known issues associated with these pipes.

Insurance and Lending Challenges: Some insurance companies may be hesitant to provide coverage for homes with polybutylene pipes, and lenders may have stricter requirements for financing such properties.

Uncertainty: Even if the pipes appear to be in good condition during the initial inspection, their long-term reliability remains uncertain, which can be a source of stress for homeowners.

What to Do If You’re Considering a House with Polybutylene Pipe?

If you’re contemplating buying a house with polybutylene pipes, here are some steps to take to make an informed decision:

Get a thorough Inspection: Hire a qualified home inspector who is experienced in evaluating polybutylene plumbing systems. They can provide insight into the current condition of the pipes and help you understand any potential issues.

Budget for Future Replacement: Consider the cost of replacing the polybutylene pipes in your budget. It’s wise to be prepared for this expense even if the pipes appear to be in good condition now.

Check the Local Market: Research the local real estate market and find out how homes with polybutylene pipes are perceived. This information can help you gauge the impact on property value and resale potential.

Consult with your Insurance Company: Speak with potential insurance providers to determine if they are willing to offer coverage for a home with polybutylene pipes. This can help you avoid any surprises after the purchase.

Polybutylene Pipe Lawsuit

In the 1990s, a class-action lawsuit was filed against several manufacturers of polybutylene pipe, alleging that the pipes were defective and prone to failure. The lawsuit was settled for $950 million, which was used to compensate homeowners who had experienced leaks or bursts of polybutylene pipes.

The polybutylene pipe lawsuit was one of the largest class-action lawsuits in American history, and it resulted in significant relief for homeowners who were affected by this defective product.

Should You Buy a House with Polybutylene Pipe?

Buying a house with polybutylene pipes is risky due to their known reliability issues. While it may offer cost savings upfront, potential future problems, reduced property value, and insurance challenges make it a less desirable choice for most buyers.

Poly Pipes in House: Bottom Line

Buying a house with polybutylene pipe is not necessarily a bad decision, but it is important to weigh the risks and benefits before making an offer. By having the pipes inspected and getting a written estimate for repairs or replacements. You can make an informed decision about whether or not to buy the house.