As re-piping of homes in the SMVE community progresses, because of defective polybutylene, the Board has been asked by several homeowners for suggested guidelines to avoid being overcharged or intimidated by scare tactics of disreputable plumbing contractors.
Overview of the Re-Piping Project:
Re-piping of a home requires re-plumbing potable water supply throughout the home, opening up drywall (e.g. usually a large number of holes), repairing holes and repainting the drywall patches or entire walls.
Total Cost:
Feedback from your neighbors indicates that, depending on the size and layout of the Fairfield model puts the range of complete repairs from about $5,400 to $10,000.The Board suggests protecting your re-piping investment by following the same guidelines employed by the Board of Directors for all outside subcontractors who are selected or managed by a Board member for projects within the SMVE community as follows:
- Written estimates (usually 2-3). For example, clarify whether plumbing, drywall repair, repainting is all-inclusive in the written estimate you receive.
- Subcontractor must be licensed and bonded to protect either the Association or individual homeowners against poor workmanship plus worker’s liability issues.
- Written warranty for new plumbing materials and workmanship.
- Time line for the project. Re-piping represents a messy and disruptive process. The shortest amount of time (less than 5-7 workdays) from start to finish is desirable provided a quality job can be done in that time.
- Written inspection by Pima County Inspectors (desirable but not required) to confirm plumbing companies compliance with updated building and safety codes.
In conclusion, satisfied customers take the time to do their homework in advance. They seek advice from neighbors and friends who have knowledge regarding re-plumbing their own home and are willing to share those experiences.
Final Useful Hint: Many homeowners have installed shutoff valves (ball valves) in the water pipe at the entry to their homes in a manner that allows the irrigation system to operative independently from the water supply to the house. This provides an extra security if you are away from your property for an extended period of time. Plumbing costs for this upgrade are about $200.00.
by Bob Vaughan, President for SMVE Board of Directors