Water is a precious resource, and its safety is paramount. The journey of your drinking water from the city’s mainline into your property is typically a one-way flow, guided by pressure. However, the potential for fluctuations in pipe pressure poses a risk of water flowing backwards, potentially contaminating the public water supply with hazardous substances.
Mandate for Backflow Prevention
In accordance with New York State law, specific properties and businesses are now required to take proactive measures. Installation, maintenance, and annual testing of backflow prevention devices are mandated, acting as a critical safeguard against the backward flow of contaminated water into the main water supply.
Types of Properties Requiring Backflow Prevention Devices
Properties encompassing a diverse range of business fall under the mandate unless granted a specific exemption by the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). Some examples include:
- Large residential dwellings with water boilers that use rust-inhibitors or other water treatment chemicals, (“treated water boilers”)
- Premises with water cooled equipment or chillers
- Premises with multiple water service lines
- Premises with roof tanks and elevated storage lines
- Premises with Commercial or Public Kitchens
- Schools and Colleges
- Food Preparation Facilities
- Nursing Homes
- Premises with large boilers or chemically treated boilers
- Warehouses (with toxic chemical storage)
- Properties with in-ground irrigation sprinklers
- Properties with swimming pools
For a complete list of property types that must install and annual inspect backflow prevention devices visit DEP’s website. Exemptions must be filed by a Professional Engineer or Registered Architect, outlining compliance with necessary conditions.
Determining the Need for Backflow Prevention
To find out whether your property requires a backflow prevention device, consult with a Licensed Master Plumber (LMP), Professional Engineer (PE) or Registered Architect (RA). Metro Group has a team of professionals on staff ready to help you determine the best device to meet your property’s needs.
Cost Estimates for Backflow Prevention Device Installation
Installation costs vary based on building size, ranging from $3,000 to $34,000. The size and complexity of the property determine the estimated expenses. Newly installed devices must be tested and reported to DEP within 30 days. Metro Group offers turnkey solutions for installing Backflow Prevention Devices and submitting property inspection certification to DEP.
Annual Testing and Compliance to Avoid Notices of Violation
Following initial installation and testing, properties are required to have their backflow prevention devices tested every 12 months by a certified tester. Failure to comply with this annual test could result in fines or the disconnection of your water service. Property owners can avoid Notices of Violation by ensuring that DEP has certification in writing from a Licensed Master Plumber, Professional Engineer, or Registered Architect.
Partner with a DEP Certified Tester
Metro Group has been the trusted source for building solutions since 1925. Contact us for a free quote on your DEP Backflow Prevention Device Inspection.
Looking for information about compliance check out our blog: Cooling Tower Compliance – How current law can be changed for accuracy
