Typlex leaky pipes: Limiting your risk
If you have seen or read stories about leaky "Pro-fit" polybutylene pipes manufactured by Iplex damaging homes, you may be wondering about the piping in your own home.
A particular type of polybutylene pipe manufactured by Iplex using Typlex 1050 resin between 2017 and 2022 is now the subject of a class action filed on behalf of homeowners who have been left with expensive repairs after pipes burst – often multiple times – or who are at risk of the same.
It is estimated that about 30,000 homes, almost half in Western Australia, were fitted with the affected pipes.
How to spot Typlex 1050 pipes
The affected Iplex Pro-fit pipes can be identified by their grey appearance and the words “Typlex 1050” printed on the piping. If you acquired these pipes from Iplex or another supplier between July 2017 and 2024, you are automatically part of the class action unless you choose to opt out when notified.
But don’t wait until there is a problem or a pipe bursts. Be proactive. If you live in Western Australia, you can register for a free leak detection unit under a joint industry response (JIR) between the State Government, Iplex and participating builders.
Typlex 1050 pipes: What if I need repairs?
Even if you haven’t had a Typlex 1050 Pro-fit pipe burst yet, it is best to take preventative steps. Pipe leaks can lead to mould and rot, as well as destroy floorboards and fittings. Even cleaning up a minor leak could cost thousands of dollars, depending on where it occurs.
The cost of re-piping an entire house could be in the tens of thousands, depending on the size of your home, and that’s without counting repairs for any damage caused if the pipes burst.
If you have had any leaks, no matter how minor, contact your builder. If you live in Western Australia and the builder is party to the JIR, the builder may be able to access funds to assess and repair leaks through the JIR.
If you are not eligible for the JIR or are outside Western Australia, you might want to consider engaging a plumbing service that specialises in leak detections so you can identify issues.
Just because you haven’t had a leak yet doesn’t mean you won't in the future. The Iplex pipes class action is seeking compensation not just for homeowners who have suffered damage to their property, but for all homeowners with the affected pipes.
Typlex 1050 pipes: What else should I do?
Make sure you document any damage that occurs. Take photos and videos of any leaks or water damage, and keep receipts for any plumbing or repair work as well as the costs of repairing any damage to your home or contents as a result of pipe leaks. Keep records of any conversations you have had with your builder or plumber about the pipes.
Take photos of the pipes if you are able to, even if there is no damage yet.
Finally, make sure you register for the Iplex pipes class action. Even though you are already a group member if you acquired the affected pipes in the relevant period, registering means you will be kept up-to-date on the legal proceedings — at no cost to you.
Find out more about the class action and how to register your interest.
Although you will not be required to pay anything out-of-pocket to participate in the class action, your share of legal fees may be deducted from any compensation you receive if the class action is successful in court or settles out of court.
A litigation funder is paying the legal fees in the class action. The funder in this case is Fortress Investment Group. In return for funding the case and taking the risk of paying Iplex’s legal costs if the case is successful, Fortress will seek to be paid a percentage of any total settlement or compensation award as a funding commission.
Handle My Complaint is publishing this information under a commercial partnership with Baker McKenzie, the lawyers for the lead applicant in the class action, the costs of which will be reimbursed by Fortress Investment Group, the funder of the class action.
