Backflow Prevention Testing & Repair
If your property has irrigation or a commercial water supply, there's a good chance annual backflow testing is required — and easy to forget about.
A backflow preventer stops water from reversing direction and pulling contaminants back into the drinking supply. Properties with irrigation systems, fire lines, boilers, or commercial equipment typically have one, and the water purveyor usually requires it to be tested annually by a licensed tester with results filed.
Two things worth being clear about. First, testing must be done by someone holding a current backflow tester license — it isn't general plumbing work, and you should ask any provider to confirm their certification. Second, requirements and deadlines are set by your water purveyor and local rules, not by us. We can test, repair, and file results, but you'll want to confirm your specific property's obligations with your water provider, since these vary and change.
When this is likely your problem
What's included — and what isn't
Included in the quote
- Testing of the backflow assembly by a licensed tester
- Completion of the test report for submission
- Rebuild or repair of a failed assembly where the unit is serviceable
- Replacement of an assembly that can't be repaired
- Re-test after any repair to confirm it passes
Billed separately
- The replacement assembly itself, if the existing one can't be rebuilt
- Purveyor filing fees, permit fees, or late penalties
- Irrigation system repairs beyond the backflow assembly
- Freeze damage repair to exposed assemblies and adjacent piping
- Enclosures, insulation, or theft cages, if you want the assembly protected
How this job is priced
Testing is a flat charge per assembly, quoted when you book. If the assembly fails, we'll quote the rebuild or replacement separately with the re-test included, so you're not paying twice to prove the repair worked. Multiple assemblies at one property are usually priced at a lower per-unit rate — ask when scheduling.
What the visit involves
Confirm what you have
Assembly type, location, and how many. Some properties have more than one and only know about one.
Test and record
A licensed tester runs the test and completes the report for filing.
Repair if it fails
Most assemblies can be rebuilt rather than replaced. You get the price before we proceed.
Re-test and file
After repair, we re-test to confirm a pass and provide the completed documentation.
Questions about backflow prevention testing & repair
Do I actually need annual backflow testing?
It depends on your property and your water purveyor's requirements. Properties with irrigation systems, fire lines, or commercial supply commonly do. Because these rules are set locally and do change, confirm your specific obligation with your water provider — we can test and file, but we're not the authority on what your property is required to do.
Who is allowed to perform the test?
A tester holding a current backflow prevention assembly tester license, using calibrated equipment. This isn't something general plumbing licensure covers on its own. It's entirely reasonable to ask any provider — including us — to confirm current certification before booking.
What happens if my assembly fails the test?
Most failures are worn internal components — rubber seats, springs, check valves — and the assembly can be rebuilt rather than replaced. We quote the rebuild, do the work, and re-test to confirm it passes. Replacement is only necessary when the body itself is damaged or the unit is obsolete.
Why is water constantly running out of my backflow device?
Continuous discharge from the relief valve usually means the assembly has failed internally and is doing exactly what it should — dumping rather than allowing backflow. It needs testing and almost certainly repair. It's also wasting water continuously, so it's worth addressing promptly rather than at the next annual test.
Ready to get this looked at?
Call and describe what's happening. You'll get an honest read before anyone drives out.