| Quick facts | Answer |
|---|---|
| Cost range | $65 for DCVA and RPZ devices in most Charleston areas |
| Time | Typically one service appointment |
| Who's qualified | A tester holding an up-to-date SC backflow prevention assembly tester certification card |
Why you cannot do an rpz valve test yourself in Charleston
South Carolina DES says all backflow testing must be done by a state certified backflow prevention tester. A certified tester is a person holding an up-to-date certification card issued by the Department. Charleston Water System also requires annual testing, with reports filed through its third-party reporting process.
What a handy Charleston homeowner can do themselves
You can locate your rpz valve, clear access to it, shut off water to the device before the appointment, and take photos of the model and serial numbers. You can also schedule the annual test by call, text, or online booking. The test itself, the documentation, and the filing must be left to the certified tester.
How testers get certified in South Carolina
Certification requires a proctored practical exam and a written exam, plus four days of training. A Midlands Technical College course costs $699.00, not including fees and equipment. Certifications renew every 3 years, and South Carolina recognizes four tester types: General, Limited, Inspector, and Manufacturer's Agent.
When to call a pro for an rpz valve test in Charleston
Call a pro any time your annual test is due, since the state will not accept a self-performed test. Also call if your rpz valve is leaking, dumping water, or fails the test - same-day emergency residential tests run about $225 in the Charleston area. Ask the pro for proof of their state tester certification card and insurance.
What to do next
- Call CHS Backflow at (843) 286-4721 or email [email protected] for a free referral to a licensed, insured local backflow tester.
- Ask the pro for their up-to-date South Carolina backflow prevention assembly tester certification card before the rpz valve test.
- Request a written quote - expect about $65 for an RPZ or DCVA device, and about $225 for a same-day emergency residential test.
- Confirm the pro will file the test report with Charleston Water System's third-party reporting process and ask what documentation support is included.
- 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.
