| Quick facts | Answer |
|---|---|
| Cost range | Recertification workshop $250; state admin fee capped at $50 |
| Time | 3-day workshop option; certification valid 3 years |
| Who's qualified | A state certified backflow prevention tester holding an up-to-date certification card |
James Island, SC: what's different here
James Island sits in Charleston County, about 6 miles and roughly 10 minutes from downtown Charleston via the James Island Connector (SC-30) and Wappoo Cut Bridge (SC-171). The community is heavily residential, with detached single-family homes making up 92% of units. About 82% of households own their home, so many properties have their own irrigation or fire protection assemblies that need testing.
What does backflow device recertification in James Island involve?
South Carolina requires recertification by passing a 25-question written exam and testing a double check valve assembly, a pressure vacuum breaker, and a reduced pressure principle assembly in a wet lab. Testers must contact a recertification station to schedule the exam; the proctor provides dates, costs, and locations. There are no reciprocity recertifications in South Carolina.
How much does backflow device recertification cost near James Island?
A 3-day recertification workshop option costs $250 per person. State regulations also allow a nominal recertification administration fee, but it cannot exceed $50. The proctor at the recertification station confirms exact costs when you schedule.
How long is a South Carolina backflow tester certification valid?
A South Carolina backflow tester's certification is valid for 3 years from the date of initial certification or recertification. After that, the tester must recertify to keep testing devices legally. All backflow testing must be done by a state certified backflow prevention tester.
What equipment standards apply during recertification?
Testers are expected to use a differential gauge accurate to within 2% of full gauge scale, or +/- 0.3 psi differential, during recertification. Certification is earned after a proctored practical exam and a written exam. The initial tester certification course is a 4-day course with an estimated cost of $699, not including fees and equipment.
What to do next
- Check your certification card's expiration date - South Carolina certification is valid 3 years from the last certification or recertification date.
- Contact a state recertification station to schedule the 25-question written exam and the wet lab testing of a double check valve assembly, pressure vacuum breaker, and reduced pressure principle assembly.
- Ask the proctor for the exact exam dates, costs, and locations when you schedule.
- For the device test itself, get a quote from a local pro and ask for proof of their state certified backflow prevention tester card and insurance.
- Call (843) 286-4721 or email [email protected] for a free quote from a licensed, insured local backflow tester.
CHS Backflow is a free referral service: an independent contractor does the work and may pay us a referral fee. You never pay us anything.
