Charleston, South Carolina · Local guide

Can I do annual backflow certification myself, or do I need a pro in Charleston, SC?

Short answer

$45 per location is the published price for residential annual backflow testing in Charleston. Call or text (843) 286-4721: CHS Backflow is a free referral service that connects you with a vetted local pro in Charleston. South Carolina DES requires all annual backflow certification to be performed by a state-certified backflow prevention tester.

Updated October 26, 2026 2 min readLeer en español

Quick answer

CHS Backflow is a free referral service for backflow testing in Charleston, SC: call or text (843) 286-4721 (our assistant answers 24/7 in English or Spanish; callbacks Mon–Fri, 8am–5pm ET) and a vetted local pro calls back within the hour during business hours; backflow repair or rebuild kit: typically $150–$400; serving Charleston, Mount Pleasant, North Charleston, Summerville, James Island, Johns Island.

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Quick facts Answer
Cost range $45 per location (residential)
Time 4-day course for certification
Who's qualified State-certified backflow prevention tester

Who is a Qualified Backflow Tester?

South Carolina DES mandates that all backflow testing must be done by a state-certified backflow prevention tester. There are four recognized types of certified testers: General Tester, Limited Tester, Inspector Tester, and Manufacturer’s Agent. A certified tester holds an up-to-date certification card issued by the Department.

The Process for Backflow Certification

Becoming qualified to perform backflow certification is not a same-day process. Charleston training classes are listed as a 4-day course. To earn certification, a tester must pass a written exam with a score of 70% and perform hands-on tests on specific assemblies.

When to Call a Pro for annual backflow certification in Charleston

You must call a local pro if you are not a state-certified backflow prevention tester. South Carolina regulations require annual testing except for limited exceptions. If you are unsure if your current certification is up to date, contact a local pro to verify compliance.

What to do next

  1. Verify if you hold a state-certified backflow prevention tester certification card issued by the Department.
  2. Ask the pro for proof of licence and insurance before any work begins.
  3. Confirm the quote includes the required annual testing for your specific assembly type.
  4. Ensure the service provider is a state-certified backflow prevention tester.
  5. 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.

Related answers

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Quick answers

How often must a tester recertify in South Carolina?

Each certified tester’s license must expire every 3 years. Testers must recertify on that cycle to keep performing annual tests.

What types of assemblies must a tester test on?

Testers must perform hands-on tests on a reduced pressure principle assembly, a double check valve assembly, and a pressure vacuum breaker.

Where can I find Charleston training classes for certification?

South Carolina DES lists a Charleston training class at the North Charleston Convention Center. This training is listed as a 4-day course.

What is the minimum passing score for the written exam?

South Carolina backflow prevention certification requires a passing score of 70% on the written exam.

Backflow testing help in Tulsa

CHS Backflow is a free referral service connecting you with licensed, insured local backflow testers in Charleston and nearby areas. The pros we refer perform all work and may pay us a referral fee. We do not perform work or hold licenses. You pay no fee to us and may get other quotes.

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