NYC Backflow Testing Requirements
The NYC Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) requires annual testing of backflow prevention devices to protect the city's water supply from contamination. Buildings with certain plumbing configurations or uses must have approved backflow preventers installed and tested annually by a certified tester.
Insparisk provides comprehensive backflow testing services, from scheduling and testing through DEP filing and compliance tracking for single buildings or entire portfolios.
Annual Testing Requirement
All backflow prevention devices must be tested annually by a NYC DEP-certified tester. Test reports must be submitted to DEP within 30 days of testing.
Test Due Annually by Installation Anniversary
Backflow Device Types
Reduced Pressure Zone (RPZ)
Highest level of protection for high-hazard applications. Required where contamination could pose serious health risks.
- Two independent check valves
- Pressure-monitored relief valve
- Protects against backpressure & backsiphonage
- Required for high-hazard connections
Double Check Valve Assembly (DCVA)
Standard protection for low to medium hazard applications. Common in commercial and residential buildings.
- Two independent check valves
- Testable with shut-off valves
- Protects against backpressure & backsiphonage
- Used for low-hazard applications
Pressure Vacuum Breaker (PVB)
Protection against backsiphonage only. Used for irrigation systems and other non-pressurized applications.
- Air inlet valve with check valve
- Must be installed above highest outlet
- Protects against backsiphonage only
- Common for irrigation systems
Atmospheric Vacuum Breaker (AVB)
Simple protection for individual fixtures. Not testable and requires periodic replacement.
- Simple air inlet design
- Non-testable device
- Point-of-use protection
- Must be installed properly
Hazard Classifications
Low Hazard
Aesthetic issues only. No health threat. Examples: residential connections, office buildings without special systems.
Medium Hazard
Potential for minor health effects. Examples: food service, laundromats, beauty salons.
High Hazard
Serious health threat if contamination occurs. Examples: hospitals, labs, chemical plants, funeral homes.
NYC DEP Cross-Connection Control Requirements
- Annual testing by DEP-certified tester
- Test reports submitted within 30 days
- Repairs must be made by licensed plumber
- Failed devices must be repaired and retested
- New installations require DEP notification
- Device removal requires DEP approval
- Records must be maintained on-site
- Violations result in fines and potential shutoff
Our Backflow Testing Services
Insparisk provides complete backflow compliance services:
- DEP-certified backflow device testing
- All device types: RPZ, DCVA, PVB, AVB
- Test report preparation and DEP filing
- Failed device identification and repair coordination
- New installation consultation
- Cross-connection surveys
- Compliance tracking and deadline monitoring
- Portfolio-wide testing programs
- Emergency testing and repair services
- DEP violation resolution assistance
Who Needs Backflow Testing?
NYC DEP requires backflow prevention devices and annual testing for:
- Buildings with fire sprinkler systems
- Buildings with boiler make-up water connections
- Buildings with cooling tower connections
- Food service establishments
- Medical and dental facilities
- Laboratories and research facilities
- Industrial and manufacturing buildings
- Buildings with irrigation systems
- Car washes and laundromats
- Any building with potential cross-connections
Schedule Your Backflow Testing
Stay compliant with DEP requirements. Protect the water supply and avoid violations.
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