Blue Pipe Class Actions

[At the Feb. 28 meeting, Peggy & David of 1445 offered to supply more information on underground water pipe remedies -- this is their report]


Polybutylene Plumbing

Sometimes called "Poly Blue," This was used extensively during the 1980s and 1990s, and has been prone to breakage, particularly between the house and the water meter. It is not a flawed product, but simply was not designed for the type of water pressure experienced in exterior use. Sometimes polybutelene is known to have broken inside the house, but this typically is from a plastic coupling rather than the pipe itself. The pipe, as it runs from the water meter to the house, will be blue. Inside the house, it is gray. You usually can see it where it connects to the water heater. If in doubt, be sure to have it checked by a professional plumber. If you know that you have Polybutelene pipes, it must be disclosed on the Seller's Disclosure
statement. In advance it would be a good idea to obtain an estimate for replacement of the pipe. Additional information and photos are available here: http://www.polybutylene.com/ and www.kinsella.com/polybutylene/ .

For updated information on the Cox vs. Shell class action law suit regarding Poly-Pipes, and to find out if your home may be eligible for a claim, visit
http://www.pbpipe.com/index1.htm or call 1-800-392-7591.

Another class action law suit has been filed regarding interior polybutylene pipes with gray or white plastic fittings. Information on the Spencer class action suit can be found here: http://www.spencerclass.com/mainpage.htm.