KITEC REPIPE

Frequently asked questions about Kitec® pipe and fittings

What problems are associated with Kitec® fittings?

The Kitec® plumbing system is for residential use and has been widely used throughout the country and is most popular in Clark County NV at this time. The Kitec® plumbing system consists of plastic-coated aluminum pipes and brass fittings. The brass fittings used to connect Kitec® pipe are the subject of this lawsuit. (As the pipe is still under investigation.) This lawsuit alleges that Kitec® brass fittings are defective because they dezincify. Dezincification is a reaction caused by too much zinc in the brass that causes a white powdery buildup on the inside of the fitting and a weakening of the brass fitting. Dezincification can lead to, broken fittings and obstructed plumbing fixtures and will eventually fail and leak.

How do I find out whether I have Kitec® in my home?

A home plumbed with a Kitec® plumbing system may have a sticker on the inside of the electrical panel. However, before you check, please be sure that you are safe when inspecting you electrical panel or have someone with experience inspect your electrical panel. The purpose of these stickers is to alert electricians regarding proper electrical grounding procedures for nonmetallic plumbing. Many times, homes with Kitec® plumbing will have a sticker that says “Kitec” or “Plumbetter.” If you find such as sticker at your electrical panel, it is safe to say that your home contains Kitec® brass fittings and pipe.

Please keep in mind the yellow sticker indicating “Kitec” was not always used properly and the best way to be sure, is to have a verification performed. We have also found many homes that contain Kitec® plumbing and do not have stickers in their electrical panels. Therefore, if your electrical panel box does not reveal a sticker indicating you have Kitec® in your home, you may need to have your home inspected to verify whether it was plumbed with Kitec®. In order to perform a proper verification, drywall penetrations must be made.

If my home has Kitec® plumbing, what are my repair options?

The best repair method is a complete re-pipe of your home. Generally, a full re-pipe takes five (5) to seven (7) business days for most homes to be completed and does not require relocation.

What do I do if I have a leak?

Get it repaired, as you would any other leak, including taking steps to minimize any damage and contacting your homeowner’s insurance carrier. If a leak occurs, turn off the main shut off valve to the home. If you do not know where your main shut off valve is located then immediately notify your plumber to stop the leak and to minimize any damage to your home. If a repair is required, keep all receipts and documentation of the repair. Please make sure to keep any Kitec® fittings or pipe that must be removed to complete the repair. Please notify Class Counsel for your area so that your leak is on record.

Lawsuit Information

What is the KITEC® class action?

This class action involves homeowners who have Kitec® fittings and pipe in their homes. Class Counsel’s goal is to provide these homeowners the proper repair to their homes with no out-of-pocket expenses. You do not need to do anything to be a member of the class action. For more information about Kitec Class Action Visit http://www.KitecPlumbing.com.

Important Case Update: The Court entered an Order establishing a Claims Bar Deadline of July 31, 2010. All owners of Clark County Homes that contain Kitec® plumbing systems that have NOT already received written notice of the Class Action must file a Proof of Claim to be included in the Kitec® Fitting Litigation Class Action.

As a member of the class, am I responsible for attorney’s fees and costs?

In a class action, attorney’s fees and costs must be approved by the Court, and notification will be given to all class members. Therefore, Class Counsel will not receive their attorney’s fees or their costs in this litigation unless a Court first approves them as fair and reasonable.

Who do I contact if I think I have Kitec pipe and fittings?

1. If you are NOT in Clark County Nevada you may contact The Law offices of Merill Namura & Molineux at 925-833-1000 and ask to speak with Shelley Grajeda or Bill Cerf.