| Quick facts | Answer |
|---|---|
| Cost range | $40 residential; $65 for DCVA/RPZ testing |
| Time | About 10 minutes from Charleston by car |
| Who's qualified | State-certified backflow prevention tester with a current certification card |
North Charleston, SC: what's different here
North Charleston sits in Charleston County, about 6 miles and roughly 10 minutes by car from Charleston via the main highway. Homes and businesses there fall under South Carolina's cross connection control rules, which require annual testing of backflow assemblies. A local certified tester can handle the visit quickly given the short drive across the area.
How often is backflow preventer testing required in North Charleston?
South Carolina requires backflow assemblies to be tested at least once annually by a certified tester, with limited exceptions. A new assembly must also be tested after installation and before use. Ask the pro which schedule applies to your device.
Who can perform backflow preventer testing in North Charleston?
South Carolina requires all backflow testing to be done by a state-certified backflow prevention tester. Certification is issued by the state Department of Environmental Services and must be renewed every 3 years. Ask the pro for proof of a current certification card.
How do testers earn their certification in South Carolina?
The state's official tester certification course is a rigorous 4-day program with hands-on instruction. Candidates must pass a proctored practical exam plus a written exam. Renewing testers must score 70% on a written exam and perform prescribed tests on approved assemblies.
What types of certified backflow testers does South Carolina recognize?
State rules identify 4 types of certified testers: General Tester, Limited Tester, Inspector Tester, and Manufacturer's Agent. Each type has different scope. Confirm the pro we refer holds the certification type that fits your assembly.
What to do next
- Check which assembly you have - residential devices are typically $40, while DCVA/RPZ testing runs about $65.
- Ask the pro for proof of a current South Carolina backflow prevention assembly tester certification card.
- Confirm the tester's certification type - General, Limited, Inspector, or Manufacturer's Agent - matches your assembly.
- Request a quote that lists the annual test and any retest after a new installation.
- 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.
