Polybutylene plumbing
A plastic supply pipe installed from roughly 1978 to 1995 that is prone to bursting. Many carriers exclude water damage from it or decline the home.
Also called: Poly-B, PB pipe
Polybutylene is a grey, blue or black plastic water pipe that was installed in many homes from about 1978 until 1995. It was cheap and easy to fit, but it became known for splitting at fittings and causing water damage.
Many insurers now decline homes with polybutylene plumbing or exclude water damage that comes from it. Others accept it only if parts have been replaced.
Replacing the pipes with copper or PEX and keeping the plumber's invoice is the most reliable way to remove the issue when getting a quote.
Common questions
Does a manufactured home built in the 1980s likely have polybutylene?
It is possible, since homes from that period were commonly plumbed with it. A plumber can confirm what is in yours.
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