Backflow Testing Vancouver

Safe, clean water is essential — not just for your comfort, but for your health. At Backflow Testing Vancouver, we provide professional backflow testing services to help keep your water supply free from contaminants. Whether you're a homeowner or managing a commercial property, our certified technicians ensure your system meets all safety standards and city regulations in Vancouver, BC.

We registered with WorkSafe BC, insured, licensed to operate as a plumbing contractor in the Metro Vancouver region. Along with being BCWWA-certified backflow testers, our staff is all seasoned journeymen plumbers.

From the test scheduling all the way to invoicing and payment, our system is totally simplified. Simply get in touch; we will handle things from there. Many times it will not even be required of you to be present for the testing.

We provide service and efficiency top priority. Usually, test reports filed online show up one hour after the test is taken. Usually depending on the municipality, we transmit paper test reports either via email or mail within a day of the test being administered. You pay only once we have finished the job.

Every year when it comes time for your backflow device(s) to be tested, we follow up with you to make sure you remain current with your testing requirements. Usually, we can fix a device that fails on first testing on the first visit, therefore saving you the expense of a second site visit.

Our staff always travels with the tools and materials needed to do most repairs; they are qualified to repair backflow assemblies. To guarantee accuracy of the test findings, we have our equipment recalibrated and tested annually using the most modern testing tools.

Clean Water Starts with Backflow Prevention

At Backflow Testing Company Vancouver, we are committed to protecting Vancouver’s water supply through professional, certified backflow testing and prevention services. Whether you own a residential property or manage a commercial facility, ensuring your plumbing systems are safe, compliant, and functioning properly is not optional — it's essential.

What is Backflow?

Backflow testing is an annual operation which comprises testing a testable backflow device with a differential pressure gauge to check the components inside are functioning properly.

The City of Vancouver's Water Works By-Law defines:

“Backflow" means a flow of water or other liquid, gas or solid from any source in a backward or reverse direction into the water system, caused either by back pressure or back siphonage;

“Backflow Preventer” means an assembly, device or method used to prevent backflow from entering the water system and includes a backflow prevention assembly.

“Backflow Prevention Assembly” means a backflow preventer assembled as a unit that includes shutoff valves and test cock(s).

Backflow occurs when water flows in the reverse direction within a plumbing system. Instead of flowing cleanly from the city supply into your taps or fixtures, contaminated water from sources such as irrigation lines, fire sprinklers, industrial equipment, or household appliances can flow backward into the public water supply.

This reverse flow may carry:

  • Chemicals (such as fertilizers, pesticides, cleaning agents)
  • Wastewater
  • Bacteria and other harmful contaminants

Why is Backflow Testing Important?

A backflow prevention assembly prevents contaminants from backflowing. Many plumbing systems require this to maintain public health and safety. This testing helps to safeguard our drinking water. Over time, the valves and assembly parts may become clogged with dirt or damaged.

Backflow prevention devices (such as Double Check Valves or Reduced Pressure Zone assemblies) are designed to stop contaminated water from re-entering the clean water system. However, these devices must be tested annually to ensure they are functioning properly.

In Vancouver, BC, backflow testing is:

  • Required by municipal law (City of Vancouver Waterworks Bylaws)
  • Necessary for public health and safety
  • Critical for insurance and property compliance
  • Important to avoid fines or water shutoffs due to non-compliance
Backflow Testing Vancouver

Backflow Testing and Compliance Services in Vancouver BC

Protect Your Drinking Water and Meet Regulatory Requirements

As a property owner in Vancouver, it's your responsibility to ensure the safety of your potable water supply and comply with the City of Vancouver Water Works By-law No. 4848. Backflow Prevention Assemblies are vital safety mechanisms that prevent non-potable (used or contaminated) water from reversing flow and entering your clean drinking water line via a cross-connection.

To guarantee these devices are functioning correctly, annual testing is mandatory. Our team of expert, BCWWA Certified Backflow Testers manages this required testing and reporting process for both commercial and residential properties—making it quick, reliable, and fully compliant.

Vancouver Backflow Testing Services

  • Backflow Device Testing
    Annual certified testing for residential and commercial systems, including pressure checks and report submission to the City of Vancouver.
  • Backflow Certification Reports
    We provide complete documentation and test results required for municipal compliance and property records.
  • Backflow Device Installation
    New installation of prevention devices for both new and existing buildings, fully compliant with local codes.
  • Backflow Device Repair & Maintenance
    Diagnosis and repair of faulty devices, including part replacement and scheduled maintenance.
  • Emergency Testing Services
    Rapid testing available within 24 to 48 hours for urgent needs such as real estate transactions or failed inspections.
  • Residential & Commercial Testing
    We provide tailored testing for single-family homes, multi-unit buildings, restaurants, warehouses, medical facilities, and more.
  • Compliance Support
    We help ensure ongoing compliance by sending testing reminders, managing municipal communication, and assisting with paperwork.

Why Choose Us for Your Backflow Testing?

1. Fully Certified and Experienced

All of our technicians are certified by the BC Water and Waste Association (BCWWA) and are fully conversant with the City of Vancouver's specific legal and reporting requirements. Our testing adheres to all provincial and municipal standards.

2. Fast, Seamless Reporting to the City

The City of Vancouver requires test results to be reported to the BSI Online (Backflow Solutions Inc.) portal within 15 days of the test date.

We submit your test results directly to BSI the same day the test is completed.

We provide you and the City with your certificate of compliance, eliminating your hassle with paperwork and deadlines.

3. All-in-One Solution: Repair and Re-Test

If your assembly fails the initial test, don't worry! Our expert technicians are equipped with the necessary tools and spare parts (springs, seals, etc.) to perform most repairs during the initial visit.

Save money by avoiding the cost of an additional service visit.

We immediately conduct the required re-test after the repair is complete.

We handle the submission of both the failed test report and the post-repair re-test report to the City on your behalf.

What Is Backflow and Why Should You Care?

Backflow happens when water flows in the wrong direction — backward through your pipes — allowing potentially polluted water to mix with clean drinking water. This reverse flow can be caused by a drop in water pressure or an unexpected event in the water main. If your property has sprinklers, irrigation, fire protection, or other cross-connected systems, you are at higher risk.

That’s where a backflow prevention device comes in — and just like any mechanical system, it needs to be tested regularly to ensure it’s working correctly.

Who needs backflow testing in Vancouver?

Vancouver requires backflow prevention assemblies to be tested on all properties.

Who We Serve

We provide service to all properties in Vancouver and the surrounding areas that have a backflow preventer installed. These devices are commonly found on:

  • Fire Sprinkler Systems
  • Underground Irrigation/Sprinkler Systems
  • Commercial Boiler and Heating Systems
  • Water Filtration and Treatment Equipment
  • Commercial Buildings and Industrial Sites

Don't risk the safety of your water supply in Vancouver!

Areas We Serve

We offer professional backflow services across the Greater Vancouver Area, including:

  • Downtown Vancouver
  • Kitsilano
  • Mount Pleasant
  • East Vancouver
  • Commercial Drive
  • Kerrisdale
  • Marpole
  • West End
  • South Vancouver
  • Other surrounding neighborhoods and municipalities

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What exactly is backflow testing, and why is it mandatory?

Backflow is the unwanted reverse flow of non-potable (used or contaminated) water—for example, water from your irrigation system—back into your clean drinking water supply line. Backflow testing is an annual mandatory procedure to ensure the mechanical device installed to prevent this reversal (the Backflow Prevention Assembly) is working correctly. The City of Vancouver mandates these tests to safeguard the public drinking water from contamination.

How often do I need to get my backflow device tested?

In accordance with the City of Vancouver Water Works By-law No. 4848, your backflow prevention assembly must be tested at least once per year. It also requires testing immediately after a new installation or any time the device is repaired or cleaned.

What happens if I miss the deadline for my annual test?

Failure to perform the legally required annual test by the due date can result in fines being levied by the City of Vancouver. These penalties can accumulate daily, resulting in significant costs. Furthermore, a faulty device puts your property's drinking water at risk of contamination.

How long does a typical backflow test take?

A standard backflow test typically takes between 20 to 45 minutes, depending on the type of device and its accessibility. The time may be slightly longer if a repair or re-test is required during the same visit.

What if my assembly fails the initial test?

If your device fails the test, it must be repaired or replaced immediately. Our certified technicians are equipped to handle most minor repairs (like replacing seals or springs) during the same visit. Once the repair is complete, a re-test is conducted and reported to verify the device is functioning properly.

Do I have to submit the test reports to the City myself?

No, you do not. As your BCWWA Certified Backflow Tester, we will electronically submit the test results (pass or fail) on your behalf to BSI Online, the system managed by the City of Vancouver, within the required 15-day window. This ensures all the necessary paperwork is handled correctly for you.

Book Your Test Today

Whether you're a homeowner, business owner, or contractor, we're here to help you stay safe, legal, and compliant.

Call us, book online, or request a quote today and keep your water system protected with Vancouver’s trusted backflow specialists.