If you’re a homeowner or business owner with a sprinkler system, irrigation system, or any type of cross-connection in your plumbing system, you’ve likely heard the term “backflow inspections” before. In most jurisdictions, particularly locales like Queens, Brooklyn, and throughout New York State, these inspections are not optional—especially since they are mandated by law.
At Backflow Joe’s, we assist clients in staying ahead of expensive violations and water contamination problems by providing certified inspections, repairs, and testing. Today, though, we’re going to make your life even simpler by taking you through step by step exactly how to prepare for your backflow inspection appointment.
Regardless of if it’s your first time or if you’ve been there before, this checklist will save you time, money, and stress.
What is a Backflow Inspection and Why Is It Important?
Backflow can threaten your health and property. It happens when contaminated water reverses into your clean supply. Here are key signs of a backflow issue:
A backflow test also makes sure that your backflow prevention device is functioning properly. That device is like a one-way gate. It makes sure water only flows into your house—not back into the main line.
A backflow test checks if your device is:
- Operating correctly
- In compliance with local laws
- Not providing dirty water to the clean supply
If you don’t pass the test or forget to have it conducted, you may be facing:
- City fines
- Service shut off
- Possible health risks
Signs You Might Have Backflow Issues
Even if your inspection isn’t due yet, look out for these signs:
- Water discoloration or bad smell
- Slow water pressure
- Rusty-looking water near hose bibs or sprinkled heads
- Repeat leaks near your backflow device
If you notice any of these, it’s time to schedule an inspection right away.
Getting Ready for Your Backflow Inspection Appointment
Now that we’ve got the scary stuff covered, here’s how to ensure your appointment goes off without a hitch from beginning to end.
1. Know Where Your Backflow Device Is Located
Find your backflow prevention device before our technician shows up. It’s typical:
- Close to your water meter
- Connected to an irrigation or sprinkler system
- On the outside of your house or building
If you’re not sure, refer to any building plans or consult your maintenance staff. It’s preferable to prevent any delays.
2. Clear Around the Device
Ensure that the space around your backflow device is accessible:
- Remove any obstructions such as plants, boxes, or rubbish
- Unlock fences or gates if the device is within a restricted area
- If at home, remove furniture or obstructions in the way
This expedites our technician’s ability to test without disruption.
3. Ensure Water Is On
Your water service must be active during the inspection. We’ll need to run water through the system to check pressure levels and ensure the valves are working correctly. If your water is off for any reason, call your water company to turn it back on before your appointment.
4. Notify Tenants or Employees (If Any)
If you are a business or facility owner, alert your maintenance personnel, employees, or renters that water supply will probably be shut off for a brief period during the test. It’s usually an easy interruption but never hurts to surprise folks less.
5. Look for Obvious Leaks or Damage
Take a moment to visually inspect your backflow device prior to scheduling the appointment. If you notice:
- Leaks
- Corrosion
- Broken pipes
- Missing components
Let us schedule when we can. In some instances, we need to repair it beforehand before we can test, or we can take part and repair it there.
6. Bring Previous Test Reports (If You Have Them)
If this isn’t your first inspection, gather previous test reports or compliance forms. They can help identify recurring issues, compare pressure readings, and make the process faster. If Backflow Joe’s did your last test, we’ll already have those in file.
7. Be Present (Or Assign Someone Who Can Be)
We recommend that someone be on-site during the inspection:
- Providing access
- Answer basic questions
- Approve any necessary repairs
If you can’t attend, have a representative. We will also call or text to update you prior to, during, and after the inspection.
8. Be Informed After the Inspection
If you follow the inspection, you will be receiving:
- A certified backflow test report
- Results directly submitted to the local water authority (if necessary)
- A recommendation for repairs or re-testing, if necessary
If your device checks out, you’re good to go for another year. If not, we’ll provide you with a quote and priority scheduling for repairs.
What Happens If Your Backflow Device Does Not Pass the Test?
If your backflow preventer fails:
- Don’t worry. Most problems can be repaired.
- We’ll inform you of what needs to be replaced or repaired.
- After the repair, we’ll re-test and submit everything to the city.
The secret is to move quickly. Most cities only provide you with 30 days to repair a faulty device before fines are imposed.
Why Backflow Joe’s?
We’re not another backflow testing firm. At Backflow Joe’s, we:
- Are completely licensed and certified for New York State inspections
- Take care of paperwork and filing with your local water authority
- Provide repairs, installations, and re-testing
- Serve Queens, Brooklyn, and the surrounding NYC area
- Promise quick turnaround and fair pricing
Whether this is your first inspection or your tenth, our technicians guide you through it all and take care of testing to filing.
Final Checklist: Prior to Your Appointment
This is a quick rundown of what to do prior to your backflow test:
- Find your backflow device
- Clear space for access
- Leave water on
- Notify staff or tenants
- Inspect for leaks or damage
- Have past reports accessible
- Be present or designate someone
- Get ready for potential repairs
Easy, huh? And if you need to ask something, we’re always just a call away.
Schedule Your Backflow Inspection with Peace of Mind
Backflow testing doesn’t have to be a headache. With a bit of prep and a trusted crew like Backflow Joe’s in your corner, it’s simply another convenient box marked off your compliance list. We offer various services for your problems including:
Need to schedule your test?
📞 Call us
📍 Serving: Orange, Westchester, Dutchess, Rockland County, NY
🌐 or schedule online at https://backflowjoes.com and let’s get your property certified.
