Plumbing upgrade in a 4 story brownstone - costs and any recs ?

We are looking at a 4 story brownstone, which needs a full plumbing upgrade. There are old pipes in the wall, and other pipes (copper) have been stolen. – How much would this cost ? A ballpark figure – Do you have any recs for such a job ? Thanks. I’ve searched this site for such info and couldnt find references.

anonCH

in Plumbers and Plumbing 13 years and 8 months ago

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brooklynplumber | 13 years and 8 months ago

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Anarchitect is closer to the real costs involved in a complete new Plumbing re-pipe in a 4 story Brownstone.  Factors that can vary the price would be how many bathrooms, how many kitchens, where they are located, etc..  Our pricing has ranged from 50K to 70K depending on scope and timing.  Heating is a different price.  If only a new boiler is needed, that can range from 8K to 10K.  New heating lines throughout + boiler can be 7.5K – 10K per floor depending on the complexity of the system.  Make sure the Plumbing Company is reputable in the neighborhood, check the license and also confirm that it’s not a “cover” job (A non-licensed person doing the work being covered by someone else’s license).

AnArchitect | 13 years and 8 months ago

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Full plumbing would include a new boiler? Will it be sprinklered? A full plumbing upgrade will be accompanied by significant rough carpentry (framing, drywall, etc.) work?  Is there an HVAC system where you’ll want your air handler’s condensate to drain indirectly into the waste line? Will the waste and vent stacks be replaced, or you will simply replace branch lines?  Will you increase the size of the tap off the street?  Will you file with the DoB? The answers to these questions will inform your total budget, but I rarely see a 4 story brownstone plumbing upgrade for less than @50k. Best, www.agenciegroup.com

callalily | 13 years and 8 months ago

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It’s a bungalow in the Rockaways. It’s tiny.

Master Plvmber | 13 years and 8 months ago

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Dylanfan, did a little bell go off when one plumber is 1/2 to 1/3 the price of everyone else bidding similar work? I mean I know we all want to do things economically, but did the idea of using substandard materials and labor concern you in any way? I’m looking for a license here: http://a810-bisweb.nyc.gov/bisweb/LicenseTypeServlet?vlfirst=Y and not finding anything in that name and even with my considerable buying leverage, I know I can not produce the materials to repipe even the most basic of homes for plumbing and heating for less than about $15,000.00. If what you’re saying is true, there’s something not right with what went on at your home.

dylanfan | 13 years and 8 months ago

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I needed everything for my long-abandoned bungalow out at Far Rockaway. My GC got three estimates, 25K, 22K and 19K. Someone else recommended Juan Gregory. He came to look over the job on 4th of July weekend. His estimate was 10.4K. He filed on the 5th, started work on the 6th. He came with a crew, did the job in 3.5 days, and got his inspection the next week. Whole house new plumbing, boiler, hot water heater, radiators, bathtub. Everyone on the job said he was a great plumber and no one knew him before he came to work. Of all the people who have worked for me on this job, he is one of two I would highly recommend. Not saying your price will be the same, but it probably will be lower than other estimates, given my experience. Juan Gregory: 646-645-4358

masterbuilder | 13 years and 8 months ago

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My plumber tends to bid around $35K for a full upgrade.