| Quick facts | Answer |
|---|---|
| Cost range | $40 to $85 for most residential devices in the Charleston area |
| Time | 4-day certification course plus annual test; renewal every 3 years |
| Who's qualified | State-certified backflow prevention tester with an up-to-date certification card |
What South Carolina law requires for residential backflow inspection
State DES rules say every backflow prevention assembly must be tested by a certified tester after installation and at least once annually. All testing must be done by a state-certified backflow prevention tester. A homeowner cannot legally file the required test themselves.
What a homeowner can do before the annual test
You can visually check your device for leaks, damage or standing water, and keep the area around it clear. You can also note the assembly's size and type so your quote is accurate. The actual gauge test must be left to a certified tester.
How certification works in Charleston, SC
The state tester certification is a 4-day course with a written exam and hands-on lab testing, followed by a proctored practical and written exam. Certification is valid for 3 years and must be renewed to stay valid. The state recognizes four tester types: General Tester, Limited Tester, Inspector Tester, and Manufacturer's Agent.
When to call a pro
Call a pro for the required annual test, any new installation, and any visible leak, crack or failed assembly. Charleston Water System requires reports to be filed with applicable fees through its third-party reporting process, which a certified tester handles. If your test report is due or your device fails, a pro is the only option.
What to do next
- Find your backflow prevention assembly and note whether it is a 3/4-inch to 1-inch residential device or an irrigation device.
- Ask the pro for their up-to-date South Carolina backflow prevention assembly tester certification card before the test.
- Request a quote that states the price for your specific device - $85 is typical for small residential devices, $40 for irrigation devices in most areas.
- Confirm the pro will file the test report with Charleston Water System's third-party reporting process, including the filing fees.
- 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.
