Replacing galzanized plumbing?

[JT Spangler]

Got a 2/2 cottage under contract, and the inspector reports that the water pressure and drainage is not great because of the original galvanized pipes. This isn't a job I've tackled before, so my questions are:

(1) What's the difficulty level for me to repipe it (with PEX, maybe? And PVC drain lines)?

(2) What's an approximate price to hire it out, so I can ask for an allowance from the seller?

[Jon Holdman]

Plumbing seems to be the most variable of the trades as far as pricing.  I've had bids for the same job where the highest was 4X or more the cheapest.

This usually requires permits and a licensed contractor, unless its a property you personally occupy.  Talk to the city about what's required and if DIY is even an option.

Impossible to estimate since its dependent on the length of runs and the accessibility of the pipes.  DIY'ing it I would certainly use PEX.  Easy to work with and very forgiving.  You have to invest in the tools, but once you have that its cheaper than copper.  Buy fittings online, if you can get it well planned enough to do that.  Cheaper than Home Depot.

Are you replacing the sewer line all the way to the tap?  That's several grand all by itself.  Very dependant on local conditions, depth and length.