Plumbing Leaks & Pipe Failures
Plumbing systems are meant to operate silently in the background, moving clean water in and wastewater out without issue. When installed correctly, they should last decades. But when pipes are improperly connected, pressurized incorrectly, or made of substandard materials, leaks can begin within months of construction. For many Colorado homeowners, plumbing failures are the first visible sign that something went wrong behind the walls.
How Plumbing Defects Develop
Plumbing systems in new homes depend on careful design and precise workmanship. Every connection, slope, and pressure fitting must meet code requirements to ensure that water flows safely and efficiently. Unfortunately, builders and subcontractors often rush plumbing rough-ins or rely on unqualified crews. Common shortcuts include over-torqued fittings, inadequate pipe support, and missing expansion loops in PEX systems.
When plumbing is installed this way, leaks often develop slowly—behind drywall, under floors, or in crawl spaces—where they remain unnoticed until visible damage appears. Over time, the constant moisture leads to mold growth, drywall deterioration, and even structural rot in framing and subflooring.
Common Signs of Plumbing Leaks or Failures
Water stains on ceilings or walls
Damp or musty odors, especially near kitchens or bathrooms
Unexplained increases in water bills
Mold or mildew in corners or under sinks
Bubbling paint or peeling drywall
Persistent dripping or hissing sounds inside walls
Even minor leaks can cause major damage if left untreated, especially when concealed inside the building envelope.
Why These Defects Occur
Most plumbing failures stem from workmanship or material defects rather than age or wear. Common causes include:
Improperly crimped or torqued PEX fittings
Cross-connections between potable and non-potable water lines
Missing or inadequate venting leading to sewer gas odors
Use of incompatible pipe materials or defective fittings
Poor drainage slope or unsupported piping
Failure to pressure-test systems before closing walls
These issues are often compounded by poor inspection oversight or unpermitted work, leaving homeowners with hidden damage that surfaces long after move-in.
Who Is Responsible
Under Colorado’s plumbing code and the Construction Defect Action Reform Act (CDARA), builders, developers, and subcontractors must ensure that plumbing systems are designed, installed, and tested in accordance with applicable standards. If they fail to do so, and those violations cause property damage, homeowners have a legal right to pursue claims for repair costs and related losses.
Suppliers and manufacturers may also be responsible when defective materials—such as faulty PEX fittings or brittle PVC components—cause leaks or failures.
How Hollington Law Firm Can Help
At Hollington Law Firm, we represent Colorado homeowners dealing with plumbing defects, hidden leaks, and water damage caused by negligent installation. We work with independent plumbing and building envelope experts to locate the source of failures, document damage, and determine who is responsible. Our firm then guides clients through Colorado’s Notice of Claim process and, if necessary, pursues recovery through negotiation or litigation.
Our goal is to secure the compensation needed to repair your home, prevent future leaks, and hold accountable those whose work caused the damage.
Contact Us
If you’ve noticed water damage, damp odors, or recurring leaks in your home, contact Hollington Law Firm to schedule a consultation. We’ll help you identify the cause, evaluate your options under Colorado law, and take action to ensure the responsible parties—not you—pay for the repairs.