Do I still have lead pipes?

If your home was built before 1970, there is a reasonable chance that some of the original lead supply pipes are still in place. Lead pipes are dull grey, soft enough to scratch with a coin, and slightly swollen at the joints. If you are unsure, a plumber can check during a routine visit and advise on whether replacement is recommended.

How much does a full re-pipe cost?

The cost of re-piping a property depends on the size of the house, the number of fixtures served, and how accessible the existing pipework is. A small terraced house will cost significantly less than a large detached property. Your plumber will provide a detailed, itemised quote after assessing the specific requirements of your home.

How long does pipe replacement take?

Replacing a single short section of pipe can be done in under an hour. Upgrading the full supply pipe from the stopcock to the kitchen takes approximately half a day. A complete re-pipe of a three-bedroom house typically takes two to three days, depending on the layout and accessibility of the pipe runs.

Pipe Replacement in Manchester

Ageing, corroded, or damaged pipework can cause leaks, reduce water pressure, and contaminate your water supply. OnCall Home Repairs connects you with qualified plumbers in Manchester who replace old copper, plastic, and lead pipes with modern materials that will last for decades. Whether you need a single section replaced after a repair or a full re-pipe of your property, we can match you with the right plumber for the job.

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When Pipe Replacement Is Needed

Pipes do not last forever. Copper pipes can develop pinhole leaks from internal corrosion, particularly in areas with aggressive water chemistry. Lead pipes — still present in many pre-1970s Manchester properties — pose a health risk and should be replaced with modern alternatives. Older push-fit plastic connections can weaken over time and begin to weep, especially in hot water runs where the material expands and contracts repeatedly.

Common signs that you need pipe replacement include persistent damp patches on walls or ceilings, reduced water pressure at taps, discoloured water when taps are first turned on, and visible green verdigris or white limescale deposits on exposed pipework. If you have experienced a burst pipe and the surrounding pipework is in poor condition, your plumber may recommend replacing a longer section rather than patching a single point of failure.

Our plumbers work with modern copper, barrier polyethylene, and push-fit systems. They can replace individual sections, upgrade supply pipes from the stopcock to the kitchen and bathroom, or carry out full re-pipes where the existing system is beyond economical repair. For heating pipework, they coordinate with the central heating system to ensure everything is reconnected and tested as a complete system.

How Pipe Replacement Works

Assessment

The plumber inspects the existing pipework, identifies the material and condition of the pipes, and determines which sections need replacing. They check for hidden leaks using pressure testing and visual inspection behind access panels where available.

Plan and Quote

Based on the assessment, the plumber maps out the pipe runs that need replacing, selects the most appropriate material for each section, and provides a clear, itemised quote. For larger re-pipe jobs, this may include a brief site survey with measurements.

Replacement

The water supply is isolated, old pipes are removed, and new pipework is installed. Connections to fixtures, appliances, and the boiler are made and tested under pressure. The plumber checks every joint for leaks and confirms normal water flow to all outlets before leaving.

Related Services

Burst Pipe Repair Stopcock Repair Bathroom Plumbing

Pipe Replacement Across Manchester

Our plumbers replace pipework in properties across Manchester, Didsbury, Chorlton, Salford, Trafford, Ashton-under-Lyne, and all surrounding areas. Lead pipe replacement is particularly relevant for older properties in the town centre and established residential streets built before the 1970s. If you are unsure what type of pipes you have, a plumber can identify them during a visit.

ManchesterDidsburyChorltonSalfordStretfordStockportAltrinchamSaleRochdaleOldhamBuryBoltonAshton-under-LyneTraffordEcclesPrestwich

Frequently Asked Questions

Old Pipes Causing Problems? Replace Them.

Stop patching failing pipework and invest in a long-term fix. Call OnCall Home Repairs and we will connect you with a qualified plumber in Manchester who can assess your pipes and carry out replacements that last.

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