It’s The Law.
Using Epoxy or CIPP to Line Pipes is Illegal in New York City

Make sure the company you use is a Licensed Plumber.

News update

In November 2011, the New York City Department of Buildings issued Buildings Bulletin 22-2011 to clarify that the use of cured-in-place piping (CIPP) and epoxy spray pipe lining repairs is illegal under the New York City Plumbing Code. The Bulletin included the background, description and reiterated the illegal use of epoxy or CIPP.

Background:

The New York City Plumbing Code prescribes materials used in the construction of pipe systems for water supply and distribution (Chapter 6), sanitary drainage (Chapter 7) and storm drainage (Chapter 11). In addition, section AC 28-113.2.2 states, in part, “…The use of an alternative material, design, method of construction or equipment shall be approved where the commissioner finds that the proposed design is satisfactory and complies with the intent of the provisions of this code, and that the material, method or work offered is, for the purpose intended, at least the equivalent of that prescribed in this code in quality, strength, effectiveness, fire resistance, durability and safety.”

Description:

Pipe lining repair is a process of rehabilitating portions of failed piping systems without the need for replacing sections of pipe by excavation or other intrusive means. Pipe lining repair includes several methods including the cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) process which consists of a resign-impregnated, flexible tube inverted into existing conduit by use of a hydrostatic head or air pressure, or by a process that sprays epoxy directly onto the walls of the rehabilitated pipe.

Uses:

The Office of Technical Certification and Research has reviewed the use of CIPP or epoxy spray lining for the repair of water supply and distribution systems, sanitary drainage systems, and storm drainage systems and has concluded that such use of pipe lining repair is not considered equivalent in quality, strength, effectiveness and durability pursuant to section AC 28-113.2.2, and therefore, pipe lining repair for any of the above systems shall not be permitted in New York City.

FOR MORE INFORMATION regarding the illegal use of CiPP or epoxy pipe liners, please visit: http://home2.nyc.gov/html/dob/downloads/bldgs_bulletins/bb_2011-022.pdf