NIBCO PEX Lawsuit: $43.5 Million Settlement, Affected Pipes and Latest Status

The NIBCO PEX lawsuit involved claims that certain NIBCO plumbing products could fail and cause water leaks and property damage. NIBCO agreed to a nationwide class action settlement worth up to $43.5 million in Cole v. NIBCO, Inc.

The lawsuit focused on three products: certain PEX tubing, yellow brass fittings, and stainless steel clamps. The affected tubing included NIBCO PEX, NEXT-Pure, and DURA-PEX products made with NIBCO’s 1006 formulation.

The nationwide settlement provided payments for qualifying leak-related damage and certain plumbing replacement costs. Its original claim period ended on May 16, 2025. However, the settlement administrator published a supplemental payment update in July 2026.

If your home has NIBCO PEX plumbing, it is important to understand which products were covered, what problems were alleged, and what the settlement actually provided.

What Is the NIBCO PEX Lawsuit About?

NIBCO denied the allegations and maintained that its products were not defective. The settlement was reached to avoid the costs and risks of continued litigation. The court did not decide that NIBCO violated the law, and the settlement was not an admission of liability. The settlement also did not cover personal injury claims.

The NIBCO PEX lawsuit was a class action involving certain polyethylene plumbing products made or sold by NIBCO, Inc.

The main case was called Cole v. NIBCO, Inc., Case No. 13-cv-7871. It was filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey on December 27, 2013.

The plaintiffs claimed that certain NIBCO PEX tubing, brass fittings, and stainless steel clamps could fail before the end of their expected service life. They said these failures could cause water leaks and damage to homes and commercial buildings.

Reported problems included:

• Cracks or splits in PEX tubing.
• Leaks around brass fittings.
• Corrosion or cracking in metal clamps.
• Water damage to walls, floors, ceilings, and other property.
• Repair costs and, in some cases, the need for plumbing replacement.

The case involved claims about product design, manufacturing, and warranties. NIBCO agreed to settle the litigation without the settlement itself establishing that every covered product was defective.

The court-approved settlement created a process for eligible class members to seek compensation for qualifying losses.

How Much Was the NIBCO PEX Settlement?

The nationwide NIBCO PEX settlement was worth up to $43.5 million.

The settlement fund was intended to pay eligible claims for qualifying water leaks and related property damage. It also covered certain plumbing replacement remedies, legal fees, and settlement administration costs.

The amount an approved claimant could receive depended on the type of loss, supporting documents, and the total number of eligible claims.

The settlement provided:

• Payments for qualifying past property damage.
• Payments for qualifying future property damage during the claim period.
• A possible re-plumb payment for certain properties with three or more qualifying leaks.
• Reimbursement based on eligible and reasonably proven costs.

Approved claim payments could range from 25% to 70% of eligible costs, subject to the settlement rules and available funds.

This does not mean every homeowner received 70% of their repair bill. The percentage depended on the approved claim and settlement distribution.

What Did the $43.5 Million Cover?

Settlement benefit	What it covered
Past property damage	Qualifying leaks that occurred before May 16, 2019
Future property damage	Qualifying leaks during the settlement claim period
Re-plumb remedy	Certain properties with three or more separate qualifying leaks
Settlement administration	Processing and reviewing claims
Legal expenses	Court-approved attorneys’ fees and costs

The settlement did not provide an automatic payment to every property owner with NIBCO PEX pipes. Claimants had to meet the eligibility rules and provide the required documentation.

What Is the Latest NIBCO PEX Settlement Status in 2026?

The nationwide NIBCO PEX settlement is past its original claim-submission period. However, payment administration continued after the claim deadline.

On July 15, 2026, the official settlement website published a supplemental payment update.

According to that update:

• The initial distribution represented 25% of each approved claim.
• A supplemental distribution was estimated at 45% of each approved claim for eligible members who had already received an initial payment.
• Together, the two distributions were expected to provide 70% of an approved claim.
• Approved claimants who had not received an initial payment were expected to receive one payment representing the full 70%.

The administrator expected supplemental payments to begin on a rolling basis by July 30, 2026.

These figures describe the administrator’s published estimates. They should not be treated as confirmation that every payment was issued or received.

How Can You Check Your NIBCO Settlement Payment?

If you previously submitted a claim, use the official settlement website to check for updates.

You can:

1. Visit the official NIBCO PEX settlement website.
2. Review the latest payment announcements.
3. Look for information about approved claims and supplemental distributions.
4. Contact the settlement administrator if you have questions about your individual claim.

Settlement administrator contact information:

• Phone: 1-855-649-5968
• Email: info@pexsystemsettlement.com
• Website: https://www.pexsystemsettlement.com/

Keep your claim number, payment records, and supporting documents available when contacting the administrator.

1. NIBCO PEX Tubing

The settlement covered certain PEX tubing made or sold by NIBCO in the United States using its 1006 formulation.

The covered tubing included:

• NIBCO PEX.
• NIBCO NEXT-Pure.
• NIBCO DURA-PEX.
• Certain CPI DURA-PEX products sold under the NIBCO brand.

The settlement materials state that the covered tubing was manufactured through 2012.

The tubing was used in residential and commercial plumbing systems. The settlement excluded certain other applications, including industrial, irrigation, radiant heating, appliance, recreational vehicle, and international uses.

2. Yellow Brass PEX Fittings

The lawsuit also involved certain ASTM F1807 yellow brass fittings.

These fittings connect sections of PEX tubing. They help create a secure plumbing connection and allow water to move through the system.

The settlement materials state that NIBCO stopped manufacturing the covered fittings in 2015. However, most had been manufactured and sold by the end of 2012.

The legal claims included allegations that these fittings could experience dezincification and lose strength over time.

3. Stainless Steel PEX Clamps

Stainless steel clamps were another covered component.

These clamps hold PEX tubing tightly against fittings. A secure connection helps prevent water from escaping.

The lawsuit included allegations of corrosion-related cracking in certain clamps. Such damage could weaken the connection and contribute to leaks.

NIBCO stopped manufacturing the covered clamps in 2015, although most had been manufactured and sold by the end of 2012.

NIBCO PEX Products at a Glance

Component	Products covered	Important information
PEX tubing	NIBCO PEX, NEXT-Pure, DURA-PEX	Specified 1006 formulation; manufactured through 2012
Brass fittings	ASTM F1807 yellow brass fittings	Most manufactured and sold by the end of 2012
Stainless steel clamps	Certain NIBCO PEX clamps	Most manufactured and sold by the end of 2012

Product names and dates are useful starting points. However, they do not prove that a particular pipe or fitting qualifies for settlement benefits.

Why Were NIBCO PEX Pipes Allegedly Defective?

The NIBCO lawsuit focused on three different plumbing components. Each component had a different alleged failure mechanism.

Understanding these problems can help homeowners recognize why the lawsuit involved more than just the PEX tubing.

Oxidation and Cracking in PEX Tubing

PEX stands for cross-linked polyethylene. It is a flexible plastic pipe used in residential and commercial plumbing.

PEX tubing is designed to handle normal water pressure and temperature changes. However, material degradation can affect its strength over time.

The lawsuit included allegations that certain NIBCO 1006 formulation tubing could experience oxidative degradation and premature failure.

This type of damage may lead to:

• Cracks in the pipe wall.
• Small leaks that become worse.
• Sudden pipe ruptures.
• Water damage inside walls or floors.

These were allegations involving specified products. They do not mean that all PEX tubing has the same problem.

Dezincification in Brass Fittings

Dezincification is a type of corrosion that affects some brass materials.

Brass contains copper and zinc. Under certain conditions, zinc can leach out of the material. This can leave the fitting weaker and more likely to fail.

The lawsuit alleged that certain NIBCO yellow brass fittings could experience this problem.

A damaged fitting may develop leaks around the connection or lose its ability to hold water pressure.

Corrosion and Cracking in Stainless Steel Clamps

PEX clamps help secure tubing to fittings. They are important because a weak connection can allow water to escape.

The lawsuit also involved allegations that certain stainless steel clamps could experience stress corrosion cracking.

This type of failure involves the combined effects of corrosion and mechanical stress. A damaged clamp may lose strength and affect the connection between the pipe and fitting.

Who Qualified for the NIBCO PEX Settlement?

The nationwide settlement covered eligible people connected to residential or commercial properties in the United States that contained or previously contained the specified NIBCO tubing, fittings, or clamps.

The settlement class included certain property owners and occupants, as well as other people with qualifying legal claims connected to the covered products.

However, simply owning a property with NIBCO PEX plumbing did not guarantee a payment.

For a property damage claim, the claimant generally needed to show that:

• The property contained a covered NIBCO product.
• A qualifying leak occurred.
• The leak caused property damage or repair expenses.
• The claimed costs were eligible under the settlement.
• The claimant provided the required supporting documents.

The settlement also contained specific exclusions for certain homes in Texas and Alabama. These exclusions related to properties involved in separate litigation.

What Documents Were Important?

People submitting claims generally needed evidence to support their losses.

Useful records included:

• Plumbing repair invoices.
• Receipts for replacement materials.
• Photographs of damaged pipes and fittings.
• Pictures of water damage.
• Plumber inspection reports.
• Insurance records.
• Proof of unreimbursed repair expenses.

The settlement administrator reviewed submitted claims under the settlement agreement.

Can You Still File a NIBCO PEX Lawsuit Claim?

The original nationwide settlement claim period has ended.

The claim period ran from November 14, 2018, through May 16, 2025. The deadline for certain past leak claims was October 13, 2019. For qualifying future leaks during the claim period, the settlement generally required a claim within 150 days of the leak.

The re-plumb claim rules also included specific deadlines and conditions.

This means homeowners should not assume they can submit a new claim today simply because their property contains NIBCO PEX plumbing.

If you previously filed a claim, you can still contact the settlement administrator about its status, payment, or any remaining administrative questions.

If you discovered a leak after the settlement claim period ended, the old settlement does not automatically provide a new claim opportunity. Consider speaking with a qualified attorney about your circumstances and any other rights that may apply.

What Was the Separate $7.65 Million NIBCO Settlement?

There was another NIBCO PEX settlement involving homeowners in parts of Texas and Alabama.

This case was separate from the nationwide Cole v. NIBCO settlement.

The litigation was known as Matson et al. v. NIBCO, Inc. It involved certain homeowners whose properties were excluded from the earlier nationwide settlement.

The settlement fund was worth $7.65 million.

The court approved the settlement in 2021. It covered qualifying homeowners in specified areas of Texas and Alabama.

$43.5 Million vs. $7.65 Million Settlement

Detail	Nationwide settlement	Texas and Alabama settlement
Case	Cole v. NIBCO	Matson v. NIBCO
Settlement fund	Up to $43.5 million	$7.65 million
Geographic coverage	Eligible properties across the United States, subject to exclusions	Specified properties in Texas and Alabama
Main products	Covered tubing, fittings, and clamps	Specified NIBCO PEX products
Settlement approval	2019	2021
Claims status	Original claim period ended May 16, 2025	Claims period closed

The two settlements should not be confused. The Texas and Alabama case covered specific excluded properties. It was not an additional nationwide settlement available to every NIBCO PEX homeowner.

How to Identify NIBCO PEX Pipes in Your Home

If your home has PEX plumbing, you may be able to identify the manufacturer and product by checking the printed markings on the tubing.

Start with visible pipe sections near:

• The water heater.
• The main plumbing manifold.
• Basement or crawl space plumbing.
• Exposed pipe sections near shutoff valves.
• Accessible utility areas.

Look for printed information along the pipe.

Possible markings may include:

• NIBCO.
• DURA-PEX.
• NEXT-Pure.
• PEX.
• Manufacturing information.
• Product specifications.

You should also check the fittings and clamps. Some plumbing systems may contain different brands or product types.

What If the Pipe Markings Are Missing?

Do not guess based on pipe color alone.

PEX tubing can come in different colors, including red, blue, white, and natural. Color does not reliably identify the manufacturer or prove settlement coverage.

Instead:

1. Take clear photographs of visible pipe sections.
2. Record any printed product information.
3. Photograph the fittings and clamps.
4. Look for old plumbing invoices or installation records.
5. Ask a licensed plumber to inspect the system.

A plumber may help identify the material and manufacturer. The official settlement administrator is the better source for questions about historical settlement coverage.

What Should You Do If You Have NIBCO PEX Plumbing?

Finding NIBCO PEX pipes in your home does not mean you need to replace the entire plumbing system.

Start by checking the condition of the visible plumbing. Look for signs of leakage, corrosion, and connection problems.

1. Check for Visible Leaks

Look for moisture around pipe connections and fittings.

Also check nearby walls, ceilings, cabinets, and floors for water stains or damp areas.

2. Inspect the Fittings and Clamps

Look for visible corrosion, damaged clamps, or loose connections.

Do not try to repair pressurized plumbing connections without the right tools and knowledge.

3. Keep Photographs and Repair Records

Photograph any suspected damage before repairs begin, when it is safe to do so.

Keep receipts, plumber reports, and insurance documents. These records may help with insurance, warranty, or legal questions.

4. Contact a Licensed Plumber

A licensed plumber can inspect the system and determine whether a repair or replacement is needed.

Ask the plumber to check the pipe material, fittings, connections, and overall condition.

5. Consider Your Replacement Options

If the inspection finds serious damage, discuss suitable replacement materials with your plumber.

You can also read our guides on what PEX plumbing is, PEX-A vs. PEX-B, and PEX vs. copper plumbing.

For a broader cost estimate, use our repipe cost calculator or read our guide to the cost of repiping a house with PEX.

Does the NIBCO Lawsuit Mean All NIBCO PEX Pipes Are Defective?

No. The lawsuit involved specific NIBCO products and alleged problems with certain tubing, fittings, and clamps.

It does not prove that every NIBCO PEX product is defective. It also does not mean every home with NIBCO plumbing will experience a leak.

The settlement addressed legal claims involving specified products. It was not a finding that every NIBCO plumbing installation was unsafe.

Homeowners should base repair or replacement decisions on the actual condition of their plumbing system.

If you notice leaks or damage, arrange an inspection with a licensed plumber.

Final Thoughts

The NIBCO PEX lawsuit was an important product liability case involving certain plumbing products and reported water damage.

The nationwide settlement provided up to $43.5 million for qualifying claims involving specified PEX tubing, brass fittings, and stainless steel clamps. A separate $7.65 million settlement covered certain homeowners in Texas and Alabama.

Although the original claim periods have ended, homeowners can still benefit from understanding the products involved and the problems alleged in the litigation.

If your home contains NIBCO PEX plumbing, check the product markings, watch for leaks, and arrange a professional inspection if you notice signs of damage. Do not assume that every NIBCO pipe needs replacement.