Is a PVC Waste Pipe Legal for 3 Family Brownstone?

I recently purchased a 3 family, 5 story Brownstone in Bed Stuy that has PVC pipe for the waste line.  I am being told by my architect and contractors that it is not to code, and to replace it with cast iron pipe, but found authority to the contrary do not want to incur the expense unless it is necessary.  Does anyone know if PVC can be used for a waste line, and where I can find the rules governing this?  If I do have to replace 50′ of pipe and a trap in a basement, any ideas what that should cost?   Thanks! Brett

brett195

in Building Code 12 years and 4 months ago

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jeanmarine2 | 12 years and 2 months ago

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I was told about 5 years ago that PVC pipe running from the renovated kitchen through our basement was illegal in NYC (and there’s PVC pipe from the washer as well).  I was told more recently that that “anti-PVC” code has since changed and it’s legal in NYC now.  Can anyone more in the know, any professionals, verify this?

brett195 | 12 years and 2 months ago

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Thanks for all of the great comments.  I just made the decision to use PVC pipe to connect all of the waste lines from my kitchen and 3 1/2 bathrooms to the riser, a decision that will save me $7,600 in my renovation.

Master Plvmber | 12 years and 4 months ago

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It’s a little louder than cast iron, for sure, but as an installer, the problem with PVC is that it needs more support than cast iron pipe and once it’s assembled and glued, it can’t be adjusted or fixed if it sags.

daveinbedstuy | 12 years and 4 months ago

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I used it in a gut rehab in PA and we insulated it and never hear a sound. Also it was installed in my brownstone when i bought it, even though then it didnt meet code, and i never heard it. Must have been the thicker plaster walls that deadened the sound

elbow | 12 years and 4 months ago

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I thought that PVC could only be used for  1 to 2 family,  gray water or large site drainage not connected to the building’s storm sewer..

Erstwhile | 12 years and 4 months ago

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PVC is great — easy on the wallet and lasts forever. Keep in mind it can resonate a bit more than CI but pipe wrap will make it dead quiet.

Arkady | 12 years and 4 months ago

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PVC is used in most parts of the country – NY is unusual.

Arkady | 12 years and 4 months ago

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I have PVC waste in a 3-story plus cellar & it’s fine.  Installed about 15 years ago to replace old one that broke.  I haven’t been aware of any noise issues.

jockdeboeraia | 12 years and 4 months ago

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PVC is allowed but I would not use it as it is not as sound deadening as cast iron.  You may not think that is a big deal till you the waste running every time down the pipe.

brett195 | 12 years and 4 months ago

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I called the Department of Buildings, which I probably should have done in the first place.  It turns out that you can use PVC pipe for waste lines in residential buildings of up to five stories.