The line between repair and alteration
A repair puts things back the way they were. An alteration changes where something runs, adds something new, or moves a fixture. Replacing a leaking pipe in place is a repair. Moving that pipe three feet to clear a new wall is an alteration — and it needs to be done to code, with the right fittings, slope, and access.
- •Repair: replace in place, same route, same function
- •Alteration: move, add, reroute, or extend a line or fixture
- •Alterations need correct slope on drains and proper shutoffs
- •Behind-a-wall work needs to be done right — it's hard to get back to
Common alterations I do
Moving a sink supply line to fit a new vanity. Adding a shutoff where there wasn't one. Rerouting a drain to clear a basement finish. Adding a laundry hookup. None of it is dramatic, but all of it has to hold — and it's behind a wall or under a floor when it's done.
Call before the renovation starts
The best time to call is before the wall's closed up, not after. Tell me what you're changing and I'll tell you what the plumbing needs to look like to do it right. A ten-minute conversation before the drywall goes up saves a lot of cutting later.
Have a plumbing issue right now?
Call and leave a voicemail — Bob calls back during business hours. For the fastest reply (usually within the hour), email him directly.