Aging Pipes Pose Growing Risk for Homeowners' Insurance

Insurers are increasingly requiring homeowners to upgrade plumbing systems to avoid policy cancellations

Jan. 27, 2026 at 3:07pm

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Homeowners across Southern California are receiving notices from insurance carriers citing plumbing-related 'renewal requirements,' mandatory mitigation devices, or even full house repipes as conditions for continued coverage. Insurers are reducing their exposure to water damage risk from aging pipes by passing strict new conditions on to homeowners. This guide explains what these requirements mean and the steps homeowners can take to protect their home and policy.

Why it matters

Insurance companies are prioritizing risk prevention, and outdated plumbing systems have become a major liability. Homeowners with galvanized steel or polybutylene pipes face an increased risk of sudden leaks and water damage, leading insurers to take proactive measures to mitigate their financial exposure.

The details

Homes built before the 1980s often have galvanized pipes that corrode from the inside out over decades of use, making hidden leaks and sudden bursts a common occurrence. Insurers are now requiring homeowners to install automatic water shut-off valves or complete a full house repipe with modern PEX tubing to satisfy renewal requirements and avoid policy cancellations. These measures can be costly, but they are necessary to address the growing risk of water damage claims.

  • Homeowners across Southern California are receiving these notices from insurance carriers.

The players

Moen

A leading manufacturer of plumbing products that provides industry-leading technology for home water usage and security.

Kohler

A major plumbing fixture and fittings company that also offers smart home water management solutions.

Daniel Zilberberg

A spokesperson who emphasizes that updated plumbing and leak detection systems show a homeowner's commitment to protecting their property.

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What they’re saying

“Insurance companies are prioritizing risk prevention. Updated plumbing and leak detection systems show a homeowner's commitment to protecting their property.”

— Daniel Zilberberg

What’s next

Homeowners should review their insurance letters for specific deadlines and requirements, inspect their homes for signs of failing pipes, and get quotes for approved automatic water shut-off devices. If warning signs are present or the insurer requires a full house repipe, homeowners should communicate their plan and timeline proactively to their insurance agent.

The takeaway

Aging plumbing systems have become a major liability for homeowners, leading insurers to take proactive measures to mitigate their financial exposure. Homeowners must be proactive in addressing these issues to avoid costly policy cancellations and protect their homes from water damage.