Video: Kitec Plumbing Explained | yael & co. real estate

Kitec Plumbing in Toronto: What Homeowners & Buyers Need to Know – Is Your Home at Risk?

If you’re buying or selling a property, the topic of Kitec plumbing is crucial. Whether you’re hearing about it for the first time or just looking for more information, this guide will break down what Kitec plumbing is, why it’s problematic, and what steps you should take if you own a property with it.

What is Kitec Plumbing?

Kitec plumbing is a type of piping system that was installed in many Toronto homes and condos between 1995 and 2007. Initially marketed as a high-quality alternative to traditional copper pipes, it offered benefits such as:

Flexibility for easier installation
Resistance to corrosion
Cost-effectiveness

Kitec plumbing can be identified by its bright-colored pipes:

Blue pipes for cold water
Orange pipes for hot water
Brass fittings, usually yellow or gray

Curious about other types of plumbing or HVAC systems you can find in condos? Watch our video all about fan coil units in condos right here.

Why is Kitec Plumbing a Problem?

Despite its promising benefits, Kitec plumbing turned out to be highly problematic due to material defects. Here’s why:

Pipe Deterioration: The plastic-aluminum pipes became brittle over time, making them prone to bursting.
Dezincification: The brass fittings contained zinc, which could leach out when exposed to water, causing corrosion and buildup inside the pipes.
Reduced Water Flow: Corrosion inside the fittings led to blockages, reducing water pressure.
Heat Sensitivity: When exposed to temperatures above 77°C, common in hot water systems, the pipes broke down faster.
Micro-Cracks & Leaks: The aluminum layer expanded and contracted under pressure, leading to cracks, leaks, and water damage.

Due to these widespread failures, Kitec plumbing was recalled, and a class-action lawsuit in 2009 led to settlements for affected homeowners.

How Does Kitec Plumbing Affect Property Value?

If you’re buying or selling a property, Kitec plumbing can have a direct impact on:

Property value – Homes with Kitec often sell for less.
Insurance coverage – Some insurers refuse to cover homes with Kitec.
Legal agreements – Buyers and sellers must disclose Kitec plumbing and may need specific clauses in the agreement.

As a Realtor, identifying Kitec plumbing in a property is essential to protecting clients from unexpected repair costs and insurance issues.

How to Identify Kitec Plumbing

Finding out whether a home has Kitec plumbing is relatively simple. Here’s what to look for:

Under sinks, near water heaters, or behind laundry machines
Bright orange and blue pipes
Pipes marked with “KITEC” or “KTC” in blue or black ink
Yellow or gray brass fittings where pipes connect

If you’re unsure, it’s best to hire a licensed plumber to inspect the system.

Curious about condo living in Toronto? Here are a few more Condo Corner videos you might find interesting:

Should You Replace Kitec Plumbing?

If you confirm that a property has Kitec plumbing, replacement is strongly recommended. Here’s why:

Prevents costly water damage – A burst pipe can cause extensive damage.
Increases resale value – Buyers are often hesitant to purchase homes with Kitec.
Avoids insurance issues – Many insurers won’t cover homes with Kitec.

Kitec Plumbing Replacement Costs

The cost of replacing Kitec plumbing varies depending on the size of the property and the extent of the work needed:

$5,000 – $15,000+ for a full replacement

For condo owners, a major concern is whether the entire building has replaced Kitec plumbing. Even if you replace it in your unit, the risk of leaks from neighboring units remains if the building has not mandated full remediation.

Final Thoughts: Protect Your Investment

If you’re buying or selling a home, especially one built between 1995 and 2007, always ask about Kitec plumbing during the home inspection process.

If you already own a home with Kitec plumbing, don’t panic—just take action to replace it and protect your investment. Addressing the issue proactively will save you from potential water damage, insurance problems, and property devaluation in the future.

Considering buying or selling a home with Kitec plumbing? Work with a Realtor who knows how to navigate these issues and protect your interests!

Get in touch with us for all your condo buying, selling, and ownership questions. Reach out by filling out the form on this page, by calling us directly at 416-909-9235, or by emailing info@yaelandco.com today.