Plumbing Services
Plumbing Services | Pipe Upgrades | Plumbing | Harrogate
Whether you’re renovating a period townhouse off Cold Bath Road or future-proofing a modern build on the Stray, HEP’s plumbing services deliver seamless pipe upgrades that keep Harrogate homes running flawlessly. Our Gas Safe–registered engineers combine state-of-the-art materials with time-honoured craftsmanship, swapping out tired, corroded or undersized pipework for efficient, leak-free systems designed to boost water pressure, slash energy bills and safeguard your property against costly damage.
From the moment you book, we handle everything—survey, transparent quotation and tidy installation—so you can relax while we elevate your plumbing to today’s standards. Trusted locally for over 40 years, we arrive on time, respect your space and back every project with solid warranties and responsive aftercare. Choose HEP and enjoy the peace of mind that comes from a plumbing network built to last.
FAQs
Why should I consider upgrading the old plumbing pipes in my Harrogate property?
Many Harrogate homes still contain original lead or steel pipework installed before the 1970s. These pipes are prone to leaks, internal corrosion and limescale build-up from our local hard-water supply, which can reduce flow rates and taint drinking water. A full or partial upgrade to modern copper or plastic pipework eliminates health risks from lead, improves water pressure, lowers the chance of bursts in winter, and adds value if you decide to sell your home.
What types of pipe materials do you install during an upgrade?
We generally specify one of three materials, depending on budget and access: • Copper – the traditional choice, extremely durable and ideal for visible pipe runs. • PEX/MLCP plastic – flexible, corrosion-proof and perfect for routing through joists or stud walls with minimal joints. • MDPE (medium-density polyethylene) – the blue underground pipe we use to replace old lead supply lines from the boundary to the internal stop-tap. All materials are WRAS-approved, fully compatible with Yorkshire Water regulations and come with manufacturer warranties of 25 years or more.
How long does a typical pipe upgrade take and will I have to move out?
A standard 3-bed semi in Harrogate normally takes 1–3 working days for internal pipework and half a day for a lead supply replacement. We work in zones so you keep at least one working bathroom and cold-water tap throughout. There is no need to vacate the property; we protect floors, isolate only the section we are working on, and reconnect water at the end of each day.
Will upgrading my pipes improve water pressure and quality in Harrogate?
Yes. Replacing undersized ½" galvanized pipes with 15 mm or 22 mm copper/PEX instantly reduces friction losses, so showers run stronger and combi boilers reach their specified flow rates. New MDPE supply pipes remove internal lead and rust contamination, giving clearer-tasting water that meets current DWI (Drinking Water Inspectorate) lead limits. If you still experience low pressure after the upgrade, we can install a mains-boosting set or break tank in line with Yorkshire Water bylaws.
Do I need planning permission or consent from Yorkshire Water before a pipe replacement?
Internal pipework changes do not require planning permission. For external supply replacement we file a Section 73 notification with Yorkshire Water on your behalf, ensuring the new MDPE pipe meets depth, sleeve and hydrostatic-test requirements. Listed buildings in the Harrogate Conservation Area may need consent if we alter visible pipe routes, but this is rare; we will advise during the survey.
How much does a pipe upgrade cost and what guarantees do you offer?
Prices vary with access and pipe length, but as a guide: • Internal hot & cold re-pipe of a 3-bed property: £1,800–£3,200 plus VAT. • Lead supply pipe replacement up to 10 m: £650–£1,200 plus VAT. All quotations are fixed-price and include materials, labour and making good. We offer 0% finance over 12 months (subject to status), a 10-year workmanship guarantee, and we register the work with the Water Regulations Advisory Scheme for your insurance and resale records.