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Poly-B Replacement in Richmond, BC
Find trusted poly-B replacement guidance and community-specific information for Richmond area homeowners.
Richmond · Poly-B
Poly-B in Richmond homes
Polybutylene plumbing was commonly installed in Richmond homes built between 1978 and 1998. If your home was constructed during this period, there's a possibility it contains poly-B pipes. Many insurance companies in British Columbia now have specific policies regarding polybutylene plumbing, including potential surcharges or requirements for replacement. Learn more about poly-B →
Richmond is a young city by Lower Mainland standards, with just 3.4% of its occupied dwellings built before 1961, and the poly-B years were a big part of its growth. The 2021 Census counts 13,185 homes from 1981–1990 and 15,510 from 1991–2000, together 28,695 or 35.4% of 81,080.
BC Housing’s leak-prevention guide says an insurer may exempt poly-B claims or deny coverage, and recommends replacing the pipe with copper or PEX (BC Housing). The same guide suggests a pressure-reducing valve where water pressure exceeds 80 psi, since high pressure wears pipes faster. One Vancouver-area plumbing firm quotes $6,000–$12,000 to replace poly-B with PEX and $5,000–$10,000 more for drywall (Clearly Plumbing & Drainage). The Vancouver guide covers strata approvals, permits and other published regional prices.
When Richmond's homes were built
The share of homes built during the poly-B years is the best single predictor of how common it is in a city.
Occupied private dwellings by period of construction · Richmond · 2021 Census
Census periods overlapping 1978–1998 (1981–1990, 1991–2000)
City-wide
The census groups construction years into periods, so 1981–2000 is the closest match to the 1978–1998 poly-B window.
Richmond Communities with Poly-B Information
7 community guides.
Next steps
Identify
Use the photo guide and the interactive identifier to check if you have poly-B.
Identification guide
Estimate
Calculate replacement costs for your home size.
Cost calculatorGet help
Request a quote; the HAUSE desk connects Richmond homeowners with a local replacement contractor where available.
Request a quoteHAUSE desk · Request
Ready to Address Your Poly-B?
Get started with a cost estimate and, with your consent, an introduction to a local replacement contractor in Richmond.
- 01A person reads itThe HAUSE desk reviews the age of the home, what you found and how urgent it is.
- 02You get a replyBy email from info@hause.ca or by phone from 403-679-3100, with practical next steps.
- 03Matched where availableWith your consent, your request goes to a local replacement contractor so they can quote.
- 04You decideNo obligation. Use the guides and the cost calculator to compare what you are quoted.
Updated 2026-09-30