it's a 2nd floor shower in a townhouse/condo. I do not believe there is an access panel since it would be on the outside in the corridor/hallway. This is why I think this is going to be a costly affair. Any idea how much it might be?
As long as you don't have a problem with cutting a large piece of sheetrock in the hallway, you don't have a huge problem. In fact, if you take your time and cut it cleanly, it can be put back in place, fastened around the perimeter, taped and spackled, and things will be back to normal.
The larger the hole, the easier job it will be for the plumber who's got to work at the pipes inside.
How much? If he shows up to a cleanly cut hole and a drop cloth already there, it will probably be $200-$300, as long as it's basically a shut it off, cut it off, repipe it and solder it, done, sort of thing.
Especially if he has room to swing a small pipe cutter around the supplies.
Maybe less, maybe more. If Murphy smiles, you're jake..............
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