Typlex Polybutylene Plumbing in WA Residential Properties

Guidance for Real Estate Professionals, Conveyancers & Property Valuers

Aquasonic Plumbing and Gas is providing this update to inform industry professionals and homeowners about developments relating to Typlex polybutylene pipes in Perth, Western Australia.

Typlex piping was produced by Iplex Pipelines Australia Pty Ltd and was integrated into the plumbing systems of roughly 12,000 to 15,000 homes in Western Australia, either during construction or renovation works carried out between mid-2017 and mid-2022.

Impact on Property Valuation & Sales Linked to Typlex 1050 Pipes

1. Properties Possibly Containing Typlex Plumbing

• The installation of Typlex pipes occurred in a substantial number of homes built or updated between mid-2017 and mid-2022, with estimates indicating between 12,000 and 15,000 properties.
  
• Numerous construction companies adopted this piping product.
  
• The names of certain builders are mentioned within the Industry Response. One notable group is BGC Housing Group (BGC), which operates under multiple registered entities:
  
  • BGC (Australia) Pty Ltd;
    
  • BGC Construction Pty Ltd;
    
  • BGC Modular Pty Ltd;
    
  • BGC Residential Pty Ltd;
    
  • J Corp Pty Ltd;
    
  • Ventura Home Group Pty Ltd.
    

2. Key Questions for Property Sellers

If there is uncertainty regarding the presence of Typlex pipes, the following inquiries may assist in identifying risk:

• Can you confirm the construction or renovation year and the builder responsible?
  
• Was plumbing work undertaken between mid-2017 and mid-2022 that may have included full or partial pipe replacement?
  
• Has the property experienced plumbing issues such as water damage, flooding, or signs of burst pipes (e.g. ceiling/wall stains, water sounds)?
  
• Has there been a noticeable and unexplained spike in water usage that might suggest a hidden plumbing defect?
  

If Typlex Pipes Are Confirmed in the Property

• How many instances of pipe failure or water leaks have occurred?
  
• What remedial measures have already been carried out?
  
• Is a leak detection system currently in place?
  
• Does the builder participate in the Industry Response scheme?
  
• Has a complaint been registered with Building and Energy (Building Commissioner)?
  
• Has the builder declined to carry out repairs related to Typlex pipe failures?
  

3. Obligation to Disclose to Potential Buyers

• Any knowledge of Typlex pipes in a property must be shared with potential purchasers. Even where certainty is not available, disclosure is advised based on the construction period.
  
• Agents must inform prospective buyers about the available remediation schemes and eligibility requirements.
  
• Additional information on required disclosures can be found on the Consumer Protection website regarding material facts.
  

4. Accessing Remediation for New or Future Owners

Current and subsequent homeowners in properties with Typlex plumbing have options for remediation. These depend on which contractor performed the original pipe installation.

Industry Remediation Programme

An Industry Response initiative has been arranged with Iplex, participating builders, and the Western Australian Government. Builders signed up to this scheme can access financial assistance to deliver structured and fair remediation services to homeowners.

• New owners or those who acquire impacted properties can utilise the remediation scheme based on the number of Typlex pipe failures recorded:
  
  • First failure: The specific pipe and resulting damage are repaired. Pipes in the upper ceiling area are also replaced.
    
  • Second failure: The failed section is repaired, with a broader “zone” of piping also replaced.
    
  • Third failure: The affected pipe and damage are repaired. Owners may choose between another zone re-pipe or a complete re-pipe of the entire property.
    
  • Further failures: If a complete re-pipe has not yet been completed, this will be carried out after repeated incidents.
    
• Financial assistance may also be available for temporary accommodation or similar disruptions during extensive repair work.
  
• Owners whose builder is part of the Industry Response should liaise directly with that builder for access to the agreed remediation schedule.
  

Submitting a Building Complaint

Where the original builder is not part of the Industry Response, the property owner—whether initial or subsequent—can pursue compensation or repairs by submitting a complaint to the Building Commissioner.

The timeframe for lodging complaints relating to Typlex installations has been extended from 6 years to 15 years.

Free Leak Detection Devices

All homes in Western Australia confirmed to have Typlex pipes may receive a leak detection unit at no cost. This system aims to reduce damage by shutting off water upon identifying a leak.

Note:

• Typlex installations only took place from mid-2017 onwards. Properties built or renovated prior to that, or fitted with alternative piping, are not covered by the guidance in this document.
  

Aquasonic Plumbing and Gas, as a trusted plumbing company in Perth, encourages homeowners and real estate professionals to remain informed about these developments. As a licensed Plumber Perth, we are committed to providing factual, relevant guidance to help mitigate risks and support property stakeholders throughout WA.