The WA Government has passed laws and finalised an Industry Response agreement to help homeowners affected by leaking Iplex Pro-fit (Typlex 1050) polybutylene pipes. As part of the Industry Response, all eligible homes are being offered free supply and installation of leak detector units.

New laws

The new laws extend the time limit for making a complaint about Typlex 1050 pipes to 15 years, backdated to when the work was completed.

Industry Response

The Industry Response became effective on 13 November and was formally announced in a media statement by Commerce Minister Sue Ellery. Jointly funded by the WA Government, Iplex Australia and participating builders, it provides eligible homeowners with the following remediation and prevention options.

• Repairs and a ceiling re-pipe for one leak
• Zone re-pipe for two leaks
• Choice of a full or partial replacement of all pipes for three or more leaks

Homeowners whose builder is not participating in the Industry Response will have similar protections and should lodge a building service complaint with the Building Commissioner.

Free leak detector units

In addition to the options listed above, all homes with Typlex 1050 pipes are eligible for a free leak detector unit. Homeowners should complete the registration form on the Industry Response website.

More information

For full details, see WA Polybutylene Plumbing Failures Industry Response.

Minister Sue Ellery's media statement is here.