One Call or Two? Licensed Backflow Repair & Replacement in Long Beach

When a backflow prevention assembly fails a test—or when it’s old, leaking, or no longer approved—the next question is immediate and practical: Are you licensed to repair and replace backflow devices, or do I need a separate contractor?

For many property owners and managers, the difference between a one-call solution and coordinating multiple vendors can mean the difference between staying compliant on time or scrambling before a deadline.

This blog explains how backflow testing, repair, and replacement typically work in Long Beach, what “licensed” can mean in this context, what to ask any provider before work begins, and how to reduce downtime and reinspection risk.

Throughout, you’ll see the field-tested planning tips our Backflow Testing Long Beach experts recommend. Company: Atlas Backflow Services.

Why This Question Matters: Testing Is Only Step One

Backflow testing verifies whether a backflow prevention device is functioning properly to protect the potable water system.

If the assembly fails, is damaged, or is the wrong type for the application, you may need:

• A repair (common: internal rubber components, springs, seals)

• A rebuild (more extensive internal parts replacement)

• A full replacement (new assembly installed)

• A retest after any corrective work (typically required for compliance)

Our Backflow Testing Long Beach experts recommend treating the test as a diagnostic: it tells you what’s happening today. Repairs or replacement are what restore compliance and performance going forward.

“Licensed” Can Mean Different Things—Here’s What to Clarify

In California and many local jurisdictions, backflow work can involve multiple credential types depending on the scope:

• Backflow tester certification (qualified to test and submit results)

• Contractor licensing for plumbing installation/repair work (often required for installation/replacement or certain repairs)

• Local water purveyor rules for approved assemblies and installation standards

Because requirements can vary by city, water purveyor, and job scope, the safest approach is to ask direct questions about credentials and permitted work.

Our Backflow Testing Long Beach experts recommend confirming two things up front:

1. Can the same company legally perform the repair/replacement for your specific situation?

2. Can they handle the retest and paperwork submission after the work is completed?

Do You Need a Separate Contractor?

Sometimes you do, and sometimes you don’t. It depends on who performed the test and what they’re authorized to do.

When you may NOT need a separate contractor

You may be able to use one provider if they can handle:

• The repair or replacement scope you need, and

• The retest and reporting required for compliance

This is often ideal for:

• Property managers coordinating many devices

• Businesses trying to minimize downtime

• HOAs needing quick turnaround before deadlines

Our Backflow Testing Long Beach experts recommend choosing a provider that can manage the full workflow—test → repair/replace → retest → submit—because it reduces scheduling gaps and miscommunication.

When you MAY need a separate contractor

You might need a separate licensed contractor if:

• The tester is not authorized to do plumbing repairs/installation

• The job requires piping changes, excavation, or significant reconfiguration

• There are permit requirements that your current provider can’t fulfill

• The assembly is in a complex fire line or specialty configuration needing additional trade coordination

Our Backflow Testing Long Beach experts recommend not assuming the tester can install/replace assemblies—ask before scheduling, especially if the device is old or has a history of failure.

Repair vs. Replace: How to Decide (Without Guesswork)

A failed test doesn’t automatically mean replacement is required. Many failures are repairable, but replacement can be the smarter long-term move in certain cases.

Repair may be appropriate when:

• The device is otherwise in good condition

• The failure is due to normal wear (seals, check valves)

• Parts are readily available

• The assembly is still an approved model and correctly installed

Replacement may be better when:

• The assembly is obsolete or no longer approved

• Parts are hard to source or repeated failures occur

• The body is corroded, cracked, or leaking

• The device is improperly sized or installed incorrectly

• You want to reduce future maintenance and call-backs

Our Backflow Testing Long Beach experts recommend considering total lifecycle cost, not just today’s invoice: frequent repairs and repeated retests can cost more than replacing an aging assembly once.

What the “One-Call” Process Typically Looks Like

When one company handles testing plus corrective work, the process is usually more streamlined:

1. Test performed

2. If it fails, you receive clear next steps: repair/rebuild/replace options

3. Work is scheduled quickly (often sooner because the provider already knows the site)

4. Repair or replacement completed

5. Retest performed

6. Paperwork is finalized and submitted as required

Our Backflow Testing Long Beach experts recommend asking whether retesting is included or billed separately, and how quickly a retest can be completed after repairs—timelines matter when compliance notices have due dates.

Questions to Ask Any Backflow Company Before You Approve Repairs

To protect your budget and avoid compliance delays, ask these questions:

• Are you licensed/authorized to repair and replace backflow devices at my property?

• Will you handle both the work and the retest?

• Do you provide before/after documentation (photos or notes)?

• Will you use approved assemblies and approved parts?

• How do you handle emergency leaks or shutoff coordination?

• What is the expected turnaround time from failed test to passing retest?

• Will you submit results to the appropriate agency/water purveyor if required?

Our Backflow Testing Long Beach experts recommend getting the answers in writing (email is fine), especially for commercial properties or HOAs where board members need a clear scope.

Why Using One Provider Often Reduces Risk

Coordinating a tester plus a separate contractor can work—but it introduces handoffs:

• The contractor may replace the assembly but not schedule the retest promptly

• The tester may not have the new device details, delaying paperwork

• Each party may assume the other is submitting documentation

With a single provider managing the full workflow, those gaps are less likely.Our Backflow Testing Long Beach experts recommend prioritizing accountability: the fewer handoffs, the fewer chances for missed deadlines or incomplete records.

How Atlas Backflow Services Approaches Repair and Replacement Questions

At Atlas Backflow Services, we aim to make the compliance path clear: what’s required, what’s optional, what can be repaired, and when replacement is the better investment. If you call with the question, “Do I need a separate contractor?” we’ll focus on the specifics that determine the answer:

• Device type and condition

• Location and access

• Scope of work required (simple rebuild vs. full replacement with piping changes)

• Local requirements that may affect the job

Our Backflow Testing Long Beach experts recommend sharing any prior reports, photos of the assembly, and the most recent compliance notice (if you received one). That allows for faster, more accurate planning.

Conclusion: Ask Early, Avoid Delays

So, are you licensed to repair and replace backflow devices, or do you need a separate contractor? The real answer depends on the provider’s credentials and the scope of work—but the best outcome is always the same: a clear plan that gets you from “failed test” to “passing retest” quickly and correctly.

Before you schedule service, our Backflow Testing Long Beach experts recommend confirming repair/replacement capability, retesting timelines, and documentation responsibilities.

If you want a team that can guide you through testing and the next steps with minimal disruption, reach out to Atlas Backflow Services and ask about options for repair, replacement, and retesting for your specific device and property.