| Quick facts | Answer |
|---|---|
| Cost range | Up to $50 state fee; $250 recertification workshop |
| Time | Certification valid 3 years; testing takes 20-30 minutes per device |
| Who's qualified | State certified backflow prevention tester with an up-to-date certification card |
Johns Island, SC: what's different here
Johns Island is in Charleston County, South Carolina, about 12 miles and roughly 19 minutes by car from Charleston via the main highway. The island falls within coastal Charleston-area conditions, where annual certified backflow testing is commonly referenced for local devices rather than one-time permanent approval. That means devices here need recurring testing by a state certified tester.
What does backflow device recertification involve in Johns Island?
South Carolina recertification requires a 25-question written exam plus hands-on testing of a double check valve assembly, a pressure vacuum breaker, and a reduced pressure principle assembly. A passing score of 70% is required on the written exam. You can complete it at a recertification center or by retaking the state-sponsored certification workshop.
How often is recertification required?
A South Carolina backflow tester's certification is valid for 3 years from the date of initial certification or recertification. After 3 years, the tester must recertify to keep an up-to-date certification card. South Carolina does not allow reciprocity recertifications.
How much does backflow testing cost on Johns Island?
Charleston-area backflow testing commonly costs about $25 to $179 per assembly, while sprinkler-system backflow certification is listed at about $40 to $85 per device. Another local source lists annual testing at $75 to $175 per device. Repair or rebuild kits typically run $150 to $400.
Who can test my backflow device?
South Carolina DES requires all backflow testing to be done by a state certified backflow prevention tester. A certified tester holds an up-to-date certification card issued by the Department. Ask the pro for proof of licence and insurance.
What to do next
- Check your tester's certification card expiration - South Carolina certifications expire every 3 years.
- Ask for a quote listing the per-device test price, since Charleston-area testing runs about $25 to $179 per assembly.
- Confirm the tester will test your specific assembly type: double check valve, pressure vacuum breaker, or reduced pressure principle assembly.
- Verify the tester's certification through the South Carolina DES cross connection control program.
- 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.
