| Quick facts | Answer |
|---|---|
| Cost range | $85 residential, $125 commercial; $225 same-day emergency |
| Time | About 10 minutes from Charleston via the James Island Connector |
| Who's qualified | State certified backflow prevention tester with a current DES certification card |
James Island, SC: what's different here
James Island sits about 6 miles and roughly 10 minutes by car from Charleston via SC 30, the James Island Connector. The island's coastal climate and older housing stock make annual backflow testing a routine part of property upkeep. Charleston Water System requires annual testing with reports filed through its third-party reporting process.
Who files backflow test reports in James Island?
South Carolina requires all backflow testing to be done by a state certified backflow prevention tester. Charleston Water System says annual reports must be filed with the applicable filing fees through its third-party reporting process. The pro we refer handles the test and the report filing.
How much does backflow test report filing cost?
A Charleston-area testing page lists residential tests at $85 and commercial tests at $125. Same-day emergency residential tests cost $225. Some providers charge $40 for most residential tests, while DCVA and RPZ devices cost $65.
What certification does the tester need?
South Carolina DES defines a certified tester as a person holding an up-to-date backflow prevention assembly tester certification card issued by the Department. Certification is renewed every 3 years after a proctored practical exam and a written exam.
How do I get a tester referred?
CHS Backflow is a free referral service connecting James Island property owners with licensed, insured local backflow testers. Call (843) 286-4721 or email [email protected]. Ask the pro for proof of licence and insurance.
What to do next
- Schedule an annual backflow test with the licensed tester we refer.
- Verify the tester holds an up-to-date South Carolina DES certification card.
- Ask whether your device is a DCVA or RPZ, since pricing can differ.
- Confirm the report will be filed with applicable fees through the water system's third-party process.
- 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.
