| Quick facts | Answer |
|---|---|
| Cost range | Varies by assembly and tester - confirm in your quote |
| Time | Typically 20 to 30 minutes per assembly |
| Who's qualified | Must hold a current South Carolina DES tester certification card |
Johns Island, SC: what's different here
Johns Island sits about 12 miles and roughly 19 minutes by car from Charleston via the main highway. Many island properties have irrigation systems that require a backflow prevention assembly by state rule. A local tester can usually reach you quickly from Charleston or the surrounding area.
Who can test irrigation backflow in Johns Island?
South Carolina DES requires all backflow testing to be done by a state-certified backflow prevention tester. A certified tester holds an up-to-date certification card issued by the Department. Certification must be renewed every 3 years.
When is irrigation backflow testing required?
A backflow prevention assembly must be tested after installation and before use by the customer. After that, it must be tested at least once annually by a certified tester. Commercial and irrigation customers must use approved certified testers for each test.
How does a tester get certified in South Carolina?
Certification requires a proctored practical exam and a written exam. Recertification requires a written exam with a passing score of 70% plus hands-on testing of an RP assembly, a double check valve assembly, and a pressure vacuum breaker. The state allows a recertification fee that cannot exceed $50.00.
Where do I file my Johns Island test report?
Charleston Water System requires annual testing and says all reports must be filed, with applicable filing fees, through its third-party reporting process. Ask the pro we refer if they file the report for you.
What to do next
- Verify the tester's certification card is up to date with South Carolina DES before the visit.
- Schedule the annual test so it lands within 12 months of the last one.
- Ask the pro in your quote whether they file the report with Charleston Water System and what the filing fee is.
- Ask for proof of licence and insurance before the test starts.
- 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.
