| Quick facts | Answer |
|---|---|
| Cost range | Typically $90-$652 in Charleston; some listings show $40-$65 |
| Time | Annual test required by Charleston Water System; field test is separate from training |
| Who's qualified | A tester holding an up-to-date South Carolina DES backflow prevention assembly tester certification card |
How much does a water meter backflow test cost in Charleston?
One Charleston cost guide lists a typical range of $90 to $652 for backflow testing. A Charleston-area price listing shows residential irrigation backflow tests at $40 for most Charleston areas and DCVA/RPZ device tests at $65. Extra fees can apply for limited access or vault conditions.
Who is qualified to test backflow in Charleston?
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 is only earned after passing both a proctored practical exam and a written exam.
How often is backflow testing required in Charleston?
Charleston Water System requires annual testing. Reports must be filed with the applicable filing fees through the utility's third-party reporting process. Keep your test report so it can be submitted on time.
How do testers earn South Carolina certification?
Training at Midlands Technical College requires all four days of class, a written exam, and a hands-on exit exam, plus access to proper testing equipment. The certification lasts 3 years and must be renewed to stay valid. Recertification shall not exceed $50 per the state seminar booklet.
What to do next
- Confirm which device you have - residential irrigation tests list at $40 and DCVA/RPZ device tests at $65 in the Charleston-area listing.
- Ask the tester to show their up-to-date South Carolina DES backflow prevention assembly tester certification card.
- Ask for a quote that covers any extra fees for limited access or vault conditions.
- Arrange for the test report to be filed with Charleston Water System through its third-party reporting process with the required fees.
- 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.
