What to Expect During a Whole-Home Repipe in San Jose

If you're a homeowner in San Jose and your plumbing system is showing signs of age—low water pressure, discolored water, frequent leaks—it may be time for a whole-home repipe. Though repiping your entire home sounds like a major undertaking (and it is), understanding what to expect can make the process much smoother and less stressful.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through every phase of the repiping process, tailored to San Jose homes. You’ll learn how to prepare, how long it takes, the materials involved, local code requirements, and how to choose the right plumbing contractor.

Why San Jose Homeowners Repipe

San Jose has a diverse housing stock—from 1940s bungalows in Willow Glen to modern townhomes near downtown. Many homes built before the 1980s still have galvanized steel or copper pipes, which are prone to corrosion, leaks, and poor water flow.

Common reasons homeowners opt for whole-house repiping in San Jose include:

• Low water pressure in showers and faucets

• Rusty or yellowish water from taps

• Recurring pipe leaks or slab leaks

• High water bills due to hidden leaks

• Plans to remodel kitchens or bathrooms

• Compliance with new plumbing codes

What Is a Whole-Home Repipe?

A whole-home repipe involves replacing all the supply water lines in your house—from where the water enters your home to where it exits through fixtures. This includes:

• Water lines for sinks, showers, toilets, and appliances

• Pipe connections inside walls, floors, and ceilings

• Sometimes, replacement of shut-off valves and hose bibs

Drain and sewer lines are typically not included unless they also show signs of failure.

Signs You Need a Whole-Home Repipe

If you notice any of the following, you might need a complete repipe:

• Frequent leaks in different areas of the home

• Visible corrosion on exposed pipes

• Water with a metallic or foul taste

• Fluctuating water temperature

• Mold or water stains on walls or ceilings

• Plumbing repairs costing thousands over time

In San Jose’s hard water environment, pinhole leaks in copper are a growing concern, especially in older homes.

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Step-by-Step: What to Expect During the Repipe Process

Here’s how the repiping process usually unfolds for a typical San Jose home:

1. In-Home Consultation & Estimate

A licensed plumber will inspect your current plumbing system, determine the extent of corrosion or wear, and suggest the best material—typically PEX or copper. You’ll receive a detailed quote covering:

• Labor and materials

• Permit and inspection fees

• Drywall repair or restoration (if needed)

• Timeline for the project

Pro Tip: Get quotes from 2–3 local contractors to compare pricing and approach.

2. Permitting & Scheduling

In San Jose, repiping a home typically requires a permit through the City of San Jose Building Division. Your plumber should handle this for you. The permitting ensures:

• Use of approved materials

• Proper installation methods

• Final city inspection upon completion

Scheduling is usually set around city approval and your availability. Most jobs start within 1–2 weeks after signing the agreement.

3. Preparing Your Home

Before the plumbers arrive, prepare your home:

• Clear access to water heaters, under sinks, and utility areas

• Move furniture away from key walls

• Protect floors with tarps or coverings

• Arrange for alternative water access, especially if staying in the home

Important: You don’t always need to leave the house during a repipe, but having an alternative accommodation for 1–2 days can reduce stress.

4. Shut-Off & Drainage

On day one, the plumbing crew will shut off the water supply and drain your existing pipes. They may shut down water access for 6–12 hours each day.

This ensures a safe environment for cutting into walls and ceilings where pipes are located.

5. Pipe Installation

The team will begin replacing old pipes with new ones, section by section. They may use:

• PEX piping: More flexible, easier to install through tight spaces, less invasive.

• Copper piping: Rigid, more labor-intensive, often used in upscale or historic homes.

They’ll run new lines through walls, ceilings, attics, and crawlspaces using existing plumbing routes. If necessary, they may cut small access holes in drywall, which are patched afterward.

This phase typically takes 2–5 days, depending on home size and layout.

6. Pressure Testing & Inspection

Once installation is complete, the new piping system undergoes a pressure test to ensure there are no leaks or faults.

After passing internal tests, the contractor will schedule a city inspection, required for San Jose homes to verify compliance with the California Plumbing Code.

7. Wall Repairs & Finishing Touches

If any drywall was removed, your plumber may offer patching services—or you may prefer to hire a painter or drywall specialist. This phase includes:

• Repairing walls and ceilings

• Repainting affected areas

• Reinstalling fixtures or cabinetry if removed

Expect this to take 1–3 additional days depending on the amount of cosmetic repair.

8. Final Walkthrough & Payment

The contractor will walk through the project with you, explain any changes made, and verify that all fixtures are functioning. You’ll also receive:

• A copy of your permit and inspection report

• A warranty (usually 10–25 years depending on the material)

• Maintenance tips to extend the life of your new plumbing

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How Long Does a Whole-Home Repipe Take?

Home Size	Estimated Timeframe
1-bathroom home	2–3 days
2-bathroom home	3–5 days
Large or 2-story home	5–7 days
Add 1–2 days for inspections and finishing work.

How Much Does a Whole-Home Repipe Cost in San Jose?

Pricing varies based on size, materials, and labor. Here’s a rough guide:

Home Type	PEX Estimate	Copper Estimate
Condo (1 bath)	$4,000–$9,000	$7,000–$15,000
Single-family (2 bath)	$9,500–$15,000	$15,000–$20,000
Large home (3+ bath)	$15,500–$25,000	$20,000–$35,000+

PEX is typically 30–50% cheaper than copper, faster to install, and more resistant to San Jose’s hard water.

Choosing the Right Material: PEX vs. Copper

PEX	Copper
Lower cost, easier install	Higher cost, long lifespan
Flexible—good for tight spaces	Rigid—may require more wall cuts
Resistant to hard water	Can corrode in San Jose conditions
Good for seismic zones	Fire and UV resistant

In San Jose, PEX is the most popular option for repiping, especially in homes built before 1980. However, copper is still used for high-end homes or outdoor piping.

Tips for a Smooth Repipe Experience

• Hire a licensed, bonded plumber familiar with San Jose permitting.

• Check online reviews and ask for references.

• Get all estimates in writing, including material types and timeline.

• Ask about warranties and maintenance plans.

• Communicate clearly with tenants if the property is a rental.

What Happens After the Repipe?

Once the repipe is complete, you’ll enjoy:

• Improved water pressure

• Cleaner, odor-free water

• Reduced leaks and plumbing repairs

• Increased property value

• Peace of mind for decades

Conclusion: Repipe With Confidence in San Jose

While a whole-home repipe is a major plumbing project, it’s also one of the best investments you can make in your home—especially in an older San Jose property with aging pipes. By knowing what to expect, choosing the right materials, and working with a trusted professional, you can enjoy better plumbing performance, increased water safety, and long-term cost savings.

Need a Repipe Estimate in San Jose?

Call Local Rooter Plumbing at 408-868-8759 for a free in-home consultation. We specialize in PEX and copper repiping for homes throughout the Bay Area, with same-week service, competitive pricing, and clean, code-compliant work.