| Quick facts | Answer |
|---|---|
| Cost range | $12.00 utility fee per test submission; tester pricing varies |
| Time | Testing is required upon installation and annually thereafter |
| Who's qualified | South Carolina state-certified backflow prevention tester |
West Ashley, SC: what's different here
West Ashley sits in Charleston County, South Carolina, and is served by Charleston County government and utility programs. The area is about 10 miles and roughly 17 minutes by car from downtown Charleston via US-17 S. Charleston's hot, humid summers with afternoon thunderstorms from June through September can affect exterior testing and scheduling. Sandy, low-lying soils and a high water table can also affect underground utility work.
Who must perform the backflow test in West Ashley?
In South Carolina, all backflow testing must be done by a state-certified backflow prevention tester. The state defines a certified tester as a person holding an up-to-date backflow prevention assembly tester certification card issued by the Department. Installations must be completed by a licensed plumber.
How often does a West Ashley backflow test need to be done?
One Charleston-area utility program says all assemblies must be tested upon installation and annually thereafter. Annual testing must be completed by a SCDES-certified backflow tester. Charleston-area testing can be billed annually.
How long is a tester's certification valid?
A certified tester's credential is valid for 3 years in South Carolina. Recertification through GSWSA is a 3-day workshop that costs $250.00 per person. Ask the pro for their current certification card before booking.
What does tester certification cost?
South Carolina's tester application includes a certification processing fee of $150.00 per certification. A South Carolina recertification fee is capped at $50.00 in the applicable regulation. A Charleston-area certification class lists estimated tuition of $699.00, not including fees and equipment.
What to do next
- Ask your utility whether it requires the $12.00 fee per test submission and how to submit results.
- Verify the tester's South Carolina backflow prevention tester certification card is current before booking.
- Confirm the installer is a licensed plumber if the assembly is new or being replaced.
- Ask the pro in your quote for the test date, the annual testing schedule, and proof of licence and insurance.
- 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.
