Kitec Plumbing in Ontario: 5 Things Buyers and Sellers Need to Know

Kitec is a brand of plastic water pipe installed in many Ontario homes and condos built or renovated between 1995 and 2007. It is usually blue for cold water and orange for hot water, with brass fittings. Kitec has been linked to leaks as it ages, so buyers, insurers and lenders often treat it as a problem even if it has never failed. If you are buying, ask whether the home has Kitec, have it inspected, read the condo status certificate and check with your insurer and lender before your offer is firm. If you are selling, disclose it. Here are five things to know.

1. Is Kitec plumbing really a problem?

Kitec has been identified as possibly weakening over time, which can lead to leaks and water damage, although there have been relatively few failures over the years. Still, the perception is that it is a problem and needs to be addressed, and that perception can affect insurance, financing and resale value.

2. How much does it cost to replace Kitec in a condo?

When this article was first written, I spoke to Alan Carson of Carson Dunlop. While you can never give an exact number, his guideline at the time was $5,000 for a one-bedroom unit, $10,000 for a two-bedroom unit and up to $15,000 for a three-bedroom unit, covering the plumbing in the kitchen and bathrooms. Costs have gone up since, so get a current quote from a licensed plumber.

You also need to know whether there is any Kitec in the common elements and whether it may need replacing. In most cases it is only in kitchens or bathrooms in the party room or similar shared areas and should not cost much to replace. Our guide to avoiding hidden home-buying costs covers the inspection and insurance costs to budget for.

3. Do sellers and real estate agents have to disclose Kitec?

In my opinion, it should always be disclosed, as it is a material fact, especially if it appears on the status certificate. Every buyer should also tell their lender and home insurer, as Kitec could affect their ability to get a mortgage or full insurance coverage.

4. Does a condo corporation have to disclose Kitec, and how can buyers protect themselves?

This is a tough question, as there is no case law on this point. In my opinion, a condominium corporation should disclose it to its insurer, as it may affect the building’s coverage for flooding. To protect yourself as a buyer, include a clause in your agreement that the seller represents and warrants that, to the best of their knowledge, the unit does not contain any Kitec plumbing. Then the seller must tell the truth. Also have the unit inspected. A home inspector can usually spot Kitec by looking under the kitchen or bathroom sink. Your lawyer can review the status certificate and agreement before you firm up, and our file review process explains what we check.

5. Can you still get compensation for replacing Kitec?

Not through the class action settlement. Owners who paid to remove Kitec could register a claim at www.kitecsettlement.com, but the deadline was in January 2020 and the claims period has closed. Today, the cost of replacement falls on the owner, which is why it matters to find Kitec before you buy and factor it into your price or conditions.

Buying a home or condo that may have Kitec? RealEstateLawyers.ca LLP can review your agreement and the status certificate before your offer is firm. If it is your first home, see how our fixed-fee real estate lawyer service for first-time buyers works, learn about our home buying services or call 1-888-876-5529.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if a home has Kitec? Look for blue and orange plastic pipe with brass fittings under sinks or near the water heater, or ask a home inspector.

Should I buy a condo with Kitec plumbing? Many people do. Price in the cost of replacement, and confirm your lender and insurer will cover the unit before you firm up.

Mark Weisleder is a Partner, author and speaker at the law firm Real Estate Lawyers.ca LLP. Contact him toll free at 1-888-876-5529.

This article provides general information only and is not legal advice. For advice about your purchase or sale, speak with a lawyer.