| Quick facts | Answer |
|---|---|
| Cost range | About $50 to $150 per assembly; repairs cost extra |
| Time | Annual testing required; testers certified for 3-year terms |
| Who's qualified | State certified backflow prevention tester with a current South Carolina certification card |
North Charleston, SC: what's different here
North Charleston sits in Charleston County and is about 6 miles, roughly a 10-minute drive, from Charleston by main highway. The city has a local permitting footprint for utility and construction work, including a stormwater submittal office in the area. State certification training is also locally accessible, with classes held at the North Charleston Convention Center.
Who can test a commercial kitchen backflow assembly in North Charleston?
South Carolina requires all backflow testing to be done by a state certified backflow prevention tester. The Department issues certification cards, and a certified tester must hold an up-to-date card. Commercial customers must contract approved certified testers.
How does a tester earn certification in South Carolina?
Candidates pass both a written exam and a proctored practical exam. The certification course is a 4-day class, and a Charleston-area class has been held at the North Charleston Convention Center. Certification is valid for 3 years and must be renewed.
When must each assembly be tested?
Each backflow prevention assembly must be tested by a certified tester after installation and before use by the customer. After that, commercial kitchens need an annual test of every assembly. Higher costs apply if repairs or rebuild parts are needed.
What permits or fees apply in North Charleston?
North Charleston's plumbing permit schedule lists a $30 non-refundable application filing fee plus $3.50 for vacuum breakers or backflow protection devices. Ask the pro about any permit needed before installation work. The tester's gauge must be accurate within 2% of full scale or plus/minus 0.3 psi differential.
What to do next
- Schedule an annual test for every backflow assembly in the kitchen.
- Verify the tester holds a current South Carolina backflow prevention assembly tester certification card.
- Ask for the $50 to $150 per-assembly test price in writing before the visit.
- Request proof of licence and insurance, plus any permit fees like the $30 filing fee.
- 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.
