Backflow is one of those plumbing issues most people haven't heard of — until it becomes a problem. It happens when water flows backwards through the pipes, potentially allowing contaminated water to mix with your clean drinking water supply. It sounds alarming, because it can be — which is why NSW regulations require certain properties to have backflow prevention devices installed and tested annually.
Who Needs Backflow Prevention Testing?
Backflow prevention is primarily a requirement for commercial, industrial, and irrigation connections, but it can also apply to some residential properties. You're likely to need it if you have:
- A commercial or industrial premises connected to the town water supply
- An irrigation or garden watering system connected to mains water
- A pool or spa with a direct water supply connection
- Any property where chemicals, fertilisers, or other substances are used near water connections
Sydney Water and local councils require these devices to be tested by a certified tester each year. Failing to comply can result in fines — and more importantly, it puts your drinking water at risk.
Testing, Certification, and Installation
We're certified backflow prevention testers, authorised to carry out annual testing and issue the required compliance reports to Sydney Water. If a device fails its test, we can repair or replace it on the spot in most cases. We also install new backflow prevention devices where they're required — whether that's for a new irrigation system, a commercial fitout, or an existing property that needs to come up to code.
If you're not sure whether your property needs a backflow device, or if your annual test is coming up, give us a call. We'll make it straightforward and keep you on the right side of the regulations.