| Quick facts | Answer |
|---|---|
| Cost range | $100 to $225 per device for Charleston-area commercial properties |
| Time | 45 to 90 minutes per assembly; water off 15-20 minutes |
| Who's qualified | A SC DES-certified backflow prevention tester with a current certification card |
Johns Island, SC: what's different here
Johns Island is in Charleston County, South Carolina, about 12 miles and roughly 19 minutes by car from Charleston via the main highway. The county has flat, tidal watersheds and poorly draining soils, so the island is vulnerable to flash flooding and storm surge. It gets about 49 inches of precipitation per year, much of it in summer afternoon thunderstorms. Hurricane threats in late summer and early fall make annual backflow testing especially important here.
Who can perform commercial backflow testing in Johns Island?
South Carolina DES requires all backflow testing to be done by a state-certified backflow prevention tester. That means the tester holds an up-to-date backflow prevention assembly tester certification card issued by the Department. Ask the pro for proof of licence, insurance, and a current certification card before scheduling.
How long does a commercial backflow test take?
A commercial backflow test often takes about 45 to 90 minutes per assembly. Water service interruption may last about 15 to 20 minutes. Plan around a short shutdown if your building needs continuous water.
Why does Johns Island flooding make backflow testing important?
Johns Island sits in Charleston County, which has flat, tidal watersheds and poorly draining soils. The island is vulnerable to flash flooding and storm surge, and hurricane threats peak in late summer and early fall. Keeping backflow prevention devices tested and working helps protect drinking water during flooding conditions.
Are there extra fees beyond the test itself?
One South Carolina backflow program lists a $12.00 administrative fee per test submission. South Carolina certification application materials also list a $150.00 certification processing fee, though that applies to testers getting certified, not property owners. Confirm any submission fees in your quote.
What to do next
- Ask for a quote listing the per-device price, the $12.00 test submission fee if applicable, and the number of assemblies on your property.
- Verify the tester holds a current SC DES backflow prevention assembly tester certification card before the visit.
- Schedule annual testing before late summer, when hurricane and flooding threats peak on Johns Island.
- Request proof of licence and insurance from the pro we refer, and ask how long water will be off during the test.
- 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.
