Can a Plumber or Irrigation Specialist Perform Backflow Testing? What Los Angeles Property Owners Need to Know

In Los Angeles, both plumbers and irrigation specialists can test backflow assemblies, but only with approved tester certifications and registration.

Learn the rules, what to expect, and why Atlas Backflow Services is the Backflow Testing Los Angeles experts recommend.

Quick Answer:

• Yes. Both plumbers and irrigation specialists can perform backflow testing in Los Angeles—but only if they hold a valid backflow tester certification and are approved/registered with the local water purveyor (e.g., LADWP) per local requirements.

• A standard plumbing or landscaping license alone is not sufficient for compliance testing.

• For repairs or replacements, appropriate California contractor licensing (e.g., C‑36 Plumbing, or relevant license for irrigation work) is typically required in addition to tester certification.

• Our Backflow Testing Los Angeles experts recommend testing annually (or more often if required) to maintain compliance and protect water quality.

Why Backflow Testing Matters

Backflow happens when water reverses direction in your plumbing, potentially pulling contaminants into drinking water lines. It can be caused by sudden changes in pressure—think firefighting, main breaks, or heavy demand spikes.

To prevent this, water purveyors require approved assemblies (RP, DC, PVB, SVB) to be installed, tested annually, and maintained.

• Risk if ignored: Contamination of potable water, fines, service shutoffs, and liability exposure.

• Compliance: Most Los Angeles–area water agencies require annual testing by a certified tester and submission of official test reports.

Our Backflow Testing Los Angeles experts recommend treating backflow maintenance like smoke detector checks—routine, documented, and non-negotiable for safety.

Plumber vs. Irrigation Specialist: Who’s Allowed to Test?

• Plumbers: Many are skilled with water systems and may be ideal when assemblies are located indoors or integrated into complex commercial plumbing. However, a plumbing license alone does not authorize backflow testing. They must carry recognized backflow tester certification and meet the water agency’s registration requirements.

• Irrigation Specialists: Often work with landscape irrigation and mainline connections where pressure vacuum breakers (PVB) or reduced pressure (RP) assemblies protect sprinklers. Again, they must hold current backflow tester certification and be registered/approved by the water purveyor to submit valid tests.

Bottom line: Either professional can test if properly certified and approved. Without that certification and approval, the test may be rejected.

Los Angeles and California Requirements (What to Look For)

Backflow compliance in the Los Angeles area typically involves three layers:

1. Tester Certification:

   • Recognized programs include regional certifications such as AWWA (e.g., CA–NV Section) or ABPA, among others accepted by the local water purveyor.

   • Certification must be current; most require periodic recertification and hands-on proficiency.

2. Water Purveyor Registration/Approval:

   • Agencies like LADWP and other local water providers maintain lists of approved testers.

   • Only tests from registered/approved testers are accepted for compliance.

3. Regulatory Alignment:

   • Local requirements often align with standards from organizations like the USC Foundation for Cross-Connection Control and Hydraulic Research (USC FCCCHR) and county public health authorities.

   • Annual testing is the norm; certain high-risk sites or assemblies may require more frequent testing.

Our Backflow Testing Los Angeles experts recommend always verifying: Is your tester’s certification current, and are they on your water agency’s approved list?

When to Hire Which Professional

• Choose a Certified Plumber if:

  • The assembly is tied into complex interior plumbing or industrial processes.

  • You suspect internal pressure issues, fixture problems, or need extensive plumbing repairs.

• Choose a Certified Irrigation Specialist if:

  • The assembly protects outdoor irrigation or is located on the landscape mainline.

  • You need seasonal irrigation system checks, winterization guidance, or interaction with smart controllers and valves.

• Choose a Dedicated Backflow Testing Company (Best of Both Worlds):

  • Firms like Atlas Backflow Services focus exclusively on cross-connection control, maintain current certifications, are familiar with LADWP and other local submittal portals, and can coordinate repairs with properly licensed contractors when needed.

Our Backflow Testing Los Angeles experts recommend selecting a provider that can test, file the paperwork, and advise on next steps if your device fails.

What Happens During a Backflow Test?

A certified tester will:

1. Verify device type and details (RP, DC, PVB, model, size, serial).

2. Inspect installation for elevation, orientation, clearance, and proper location.

3. Use calibrated test equipment to measure check valve and relief valve performance according to recognized procedures.

4. Record results on the official agency form and submit to the water purveyor.

5. Provide pass/fail documentation and recommendations.

   • If failed, you’ll receive a plan for repair/replacement and retesting. Repairs require the appropriate contractor license.

Our Backflow Testing Los Angeles experts recommend scheduling tests at least 30 days before your due date to allow time for any repairs and retesting.

Common Mistakes That Cause Rejections

• Hiring a non-certified or non-approved tester.

• Letting tester certifications or gauge calibrations lapse.

• Incorrect device type for the hazard (e.g., using DC where RP is required).

• Improper installation height or orientation.

• Missing or late submission to the water agency.

Our Backflow Testing Los Angeles experts recommend annual reminders and device inventory tracking to stay ahead of deadlines.

Why Choose Atlas Backflow Services

Atlas Backflow Services is a Los Angeles–based team focused on cross-connection control. We are the Backflow Testing Los Angeles experts recommend because we offer:

• Certified testing recognized by local water purveyors.

• Paperwork done for you, including agency submissions and reminders.

• Repair coordination with properly licensed contractors when needed.

• Multi-site management for HOAs, commercial campuses, hospitals, and municipalities.

• Transparent pricing and same-week scheduling in most cases.

Our Backflow Testing Los Angeles experts recommend partnering with a specialist who lives and breathes backflow compliance—so you don’t have to.

FAQs

• Can my regular plumber test my backflow device?

  • Yes, if they hold a current backflow tester certification and are approved by your water agency. A plumbing license alone is not enough.

• Do I need a test every year?

  • In most cases, yes. Annual testing is standard; some high-risk sites may require more frequent testing.

• Can I fix a failed device myself?

  • Repairs should be performed by qualified professionals and typically require an appropriate California contractor license. After repairs, a certified tester must retest and submit results.

• What devices need testing?

  • Common assemblies include RP (Reduced Pressure), DC (Double Check), PVB (Pressure Vacuum Breaker), and SVB (Spill-Resistant Vacuum Breaker). Your water purveyor or a certified tester can confirm what’s required for your site.

Get Compliant the Easy Way

Whether you use a plumber or an irrigation specialist, make sure they’re certified, approved, and current. If you want it done right—and paperwork handled without the headache—contact Atlas Backflow Services.

We’re the Backflow Testing Los Angeles experts recommend for fast, compliant, and hassle-free service.Ready to schedule? Contact Atlas Backflow Services today for a quote, annual reminders, and peace of mind.