Are Boston Plumbers Being dishonest or truthful?

Submitted by bizzaveli t3_12430cm in boston

I’m leasing a commercial space in Brighton, MA to open an ice cream shop. I only have to install plumbing for a 3 Bay Sink, and a hand wash sink on the same wall.

The space was once a retail boutique shop. The previous tenants had a bathroom, washing machine, and water heater installed, but with PVC.

Some of the plumbers I’ve had come by say I will have to replace all PVC piping with copper or cast iron. Other plumbers have told me I will not have to replace all of the previously installed plumbing as it’s grandfathered, only the fixtures that they own (work on) will need to be replaced.

Are the plumbers who say I must have all plumbing stripped and replaced being truthful, or trying to take advantage?

0

Comments

You must log in or register to comment.

mgzukowski t1_jdxk3g1 wrote

Here is the plumbing code but they are right. No PVC and I am pretty sure you need copper lines for feed lines.

https://www.mass.gov/doc/248-cmr-1000-uniform-state-plumbing-code-0

Make sure you search commercial kitchen.

20

bizzaveli OP t1_jdxmqmv wrote

Thanks for your response! I searched commercial kitchen in the code book, and saw that it said PVC may not be used in commercial kitchens or public restrooms.

I understand having the plumbing for the new sinks I’m installing be copper, my question is will I still have to remove & replace all PVC even if the pipes aren’t related to the kitchen? For example, a restroom that is not opened to the public.

2

mgzukowski t1_jdxn8h0 wrote

Literally a paragraph under that part.

No PVC schedule 40 pipe and fittings may be used for the toilet fixtures and other plumbing connections in the building.

Just use Ctrl+f it's a pdf

9

bizzaveli OP t1_jdxngua wrote

Ahh true, I should’ve searched PVC instead of “commercial kitchens” like you said. My fault

5

Rocklobsterbot t1_jdxmpgz wrote

if it's commercial, you need to use cast iron or copper if you're doing new work. Check with Boston inspectional services on what counts as new work. You may be able to go for a variance with the state plumbing board to keep the pvc, but it's not a guarantee and will slow you down,

8

schmendimini t1_jdxnz3g wrote

Where in Brighton 👀👀👀

4

RhaenyrasUncle t1_jdy6o1l wrote

AFAIK, PVC is against code.

You can use it...it just wont pass inspection.

3

bizzaveli OP t1_jdybljp wrote

I plan on using copper for the new work. I’m more so asking about the existing PVC work that is for the bathroom

2

Icy-Neck-2422 t1_jdxk82o wrote

Different plumbers will have different takes on what the "right" way to do a job is. Unless there are code/health/sanitary concerns in play then if one of them says that the stack is in good shape and only the drains/traps and supply lines /shutoffs need attention/replacement then I'd probably go with them if they seem like they know what they are doing.

2

lifeisakoan t1_jdy5028 wrote

You play roulette with inspectors. And depending on plumber, they may not know which inspector might grandfather existing and which will require everything to code.

2

Constructestimator83 t1_jdyli1w wrote

It’s 50-50. If you literally aren’t touching the existing plumbing they may let it go but they have the right to make you replace it. My recommendation is call the plumbing inspector and talk it though. They will tell you what they will sign off on.

2