How Much Does Plumbing Cost for A New Home or ADU in Atlanta?

Oct 1

Building a new home or an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a big step, and one important element you’ll need to budget for is the plumbing. Whether you’re in Lawrenceville, GA or any of the surrounding cities, First Priority Plumbing & Drain is here to provide expert residential services for new builds. Plumbing costs can vary, but with the right information, you can make the best choices for your project. In this blog, we'll break down the cost of plumbing for new home or ADU builds and how our expert plumbing team can help you stay within your budget while ensuring high-quality service.

What to Expect When Hiring a Plumber for a New Home or ADU Build

Plumbing for a new construction is more than just installing fixtures like sinks and toilets. It involves creating an entire water supply and drainage system from scratch. This includes:

Water Supply Lines: Getting water to your sinks, showers, toilets, and appliances.
Drainage Systems: Ensuring wastewater is safely removed from your property.
Gas Lines (if applicable): For stoves, heaters, and other gas-powered appliances.
Irrigation Systems (optional): If your home includes landscaping, you may also need irrigation systems. These are becoming more popular especially with our hot Atlanta weather that wrecks grass in the summer.

When you’re building from the ground up, getting your plumbing right is essential. At First Priority Plumbing & Drain, we understand that every home and ADU is unique, and we tailor our services to fit your specific needs. Our licensed and experienced plumbers work with you every step of the way to make sure your plumbing is installed correctly and efficiently.

Average Plumbing Costs for New Builds

The cost of plumbing for a new home or ADU depends on the size and complexity of the project. On average, plumbing for a new home or ADU build in the greater Atlanta can cost:

For a new starter home, you can expect to pay between $8,000 and $15,000. Smaller homes with basic plumbing systems will be on the lower end, while larger homes or homes with complex layouts will be more expensive, often being $20,000 or more.
For an ADU, plumbing costs generally range between $4,000 and $10,000. ADUs are smaller, but they still require full plumbing systems, which include water supply, drainage, and fixture installations.

These are broad estimates, but we’re happy to meet and work closely with you to provide accurate quotes based on your project’s unique needs.

Factors That Influence Plumbing Costs

Several key factors can affect how much you'll spend on plumbing for a new home or ADU:

1. Size of the Home or ADU

Larger homes and ADUs need more extensive piping and larger drainage systems. More square footage typically means more materials and labor, leading to higher costs.

2. Type of Materials Used

Different types of piping and fixtures come with different price tags. For instance:

PEX Piping: This is a cost-effective, flexible, and durable option that’s commonly used in residential builds.
Copper Piping: More expensive, but highly durable and often used in areas with high water pressure.

At First Priority Plumbing & Drain, we can help you choose the best materials for your new construction project, balancing quality and cost.

3. Complexity of the Plumbing System

A simple plumbing system will cost less than one that involves multiple bathrooms, custom showers, high-end kitchens, or outdoor kitchens. The more fixtures and appliances you have, the more your plumbing costs will rise.

4. Number of Fixtures

Fixtures like sinks, showers, and toilets each add to the cost. For example:

Toilets typically cost $200 to $500 installed.
Sinks range from $200 to $600.
Showers can cost $500 to $1,500, depending on complexity.

There are certain brands that we recommend installing - high-quality fixtures will last much longer, work better, have many options that can fit your design, and you don’t have to empty your wallet to have good options. We’re people too with personal budgets of our own - we understand this aspect and will help you balance functionality and aesthetics with cost.

5. Labor Costs

In the Lawrenceville, GA area, average labor costs for plumbing range from $50 to $150 per hour, depending on the complexity of the job. At First Priority Plumbing & Drain, our team is known for being efficient and professional, ensuring the job is done right the first time. Give us a call and we can get started on a free estimate for your project so that you can have a full, accurate picture of what the cost will be before we ever begin.

6. Permits and Inspections

You’ll need to obtain permits and pass inspections to ensure your plumbing is up to code. A rough average for permit costs ranges from $200 to $1,500, depending on the project size and location. Our team at First Priority Plumbing is familiar with local regulations and we can provide our services for this process, saving you time and hassle.

Plumbing for ADUs: Special Considerations

ADUs are becoming more popular all over Atlanta, providing flexible living spaces for extended family or rental income. When planning plumbing for an ADU, there are a few additional factors to consider:

Connection to Existing Utilities: Tying into existing water, gas, and sewage lines can add to your costs, especially if your main house is older or in need of upgrades.
Separate Meters: Some local regulations require separate meters for ADUs, which can add to the cost of the project. We can help you navigate these requirements and ensure everything is up to code.

One thing to note is that when you invest into building an ADU, you can reap many benefits. Your upfront costs will eventually be recouped with the money that you will earn from a currently empty spot in your yard. ADUs have become more popular due to the fact that they can help homeowners pay for their main mortgage, assist with higher living costs, and more.

Why Choose First Priority Plumbing & Drain for your New Home or ADU Build?

When it comes to new construction, you need a plumbing company you can trust to do the job right. We have built a reputation in our region for providing high-quality, reliable service. Here's why you should choose us:

Experienced Team: Our team of licensed plumbers has years of experience in both new builds and renovations. We bring this expertise to every project, ensuring your plumbing system is installed correctly and efficiently.
Fair Pricing: We believe in transparent pricing. We’ll provide a detailed estimate upfront so you know exactly what to expect, with no hidden fees or surprise costs.
Customer-Centric Approach: At First Priority Plumbing & Drain, we treat every customer like a neighbor. We’re committed to ensuring your satisfaction and making sure your project goes smoothly from start to finish.
Trusted by the Community: Most of our business comes from word-of-mouth referrals, which speaks to the trust we’ve built with homeowners and builders in the area. Our customers know they can count on us for quality work at a fair price.

Tips for Managing Plumbing Costs

While plumbing is a necessary expense, there are ways to keep costs under control:

Plan Ahead: Work with your plumber early in the process to design a system that meets your needs without going overboard.
Stick to Standard Fixtures: High-end fixtures can quickly drive up costs. Opt for standard models if you’re on a tight budget.
Use Cost-Effective Materials: PEX piping, for example, is a durable and affordable choice for most residential plumbing systems.
Bundle Services: If you need gas line installation or irrigation systems in addition to plumbing, bundling these services with the same contractor can help reduce labor costs.

Ready to Get Started?

If you’re planning a new home or ADU build in Gwinnett County or anywhere in the area, contact us today. We’ll provide a detailed estimate, help you design a cost-effective plumbing system, and ensure the job is done right. With years of experience and a reputation for reliability, we’re the team you can trust for all your plumbing needs.

Vlad Gorash