What Paperwork Needs to Be Submitted After a Backflow Test in Los Angeles?

Staying compliant with Los Angeles backflow regulations isn’t just about passing the test—it’s about filing the right paperwork, on time, to the right agency. If you’re asking, “What paperwork needs to be submitted after the test?” you’re already on the right track.

Below, our Backflow Testing Los Angeles experts recommend a simple, step-by-step roadmap so your property remains protected, documented, and fully compliant.

The Short Answer: What You Must Submit After a Backflow Test

After a backflow prevention assembly is tested (annual, post-repair, or post-install), you typically need to submit:

• Backflow Prevention Assembly Test Report (the official pass/fail form with all test readings)

• Repair/Replacement Report (only if the device failed initially and was repaired)

• Test Tag/Sticker affixed to the device (on-site, but must match the report)

• Permit or inspection sign-off (if required for new installations, relocations, or significant repairs)

• Digital submission to your water purveyor’s portal or email (LADWP or your local city/water district)

Our Backflow Testing Los Angeles experts recommend submitting within the deadline stated by your water purveyor, keeping copies for your records, and verifying receipt.

Who Requires Your Paperwork in the Los Angeles Area?

• Your water purveyor (utility): This could be LADWP or your city’s water department (e.g., Burbank, Glendale, Pasadena, Beverly Hills, etc.). Each has its own submittal method and due dates.

• Local building department: Only when permits/inspections are involved.

• Property management/HOA: If they maintain internal compliance logs.

If you’re unsure which agency oversees your address, Atlas Backflow Services can identify your water purveyor and submit through the correct channel. Our Backflow Testing Los Angeles experts recommend always confirming the specific submittal method before testing to avoid delays.

The Core Document: Backflow Prevention Assembly Test Report

This is the official test form that documents your assembly’s condition and results. In Los Angeles, most water purveyors require a format consistent with USC FCCCHR (University of Southern California) standards and state regulations.A complete Test Report typically includes:

• Customer and site details: Property owner or responsible party, service address, contact info, water account (if required).

• Device details: Make, model, type (e.g., RP, DC, PVBA, SVB), size, serial number, hazard classification, location on site.

• Test results:

  • For Double Check (DC): Check Valve #1 and #2 differential pressure readings, tightness.

  • For Reduced Pressure (RP): Check Valve #1/#2 readings, relief valve opening point, shut-off valve status, tightness.

  • For Pressure Vacuum Breaker (PVB)/Spill-Resistant VB (SVB): Air inlet and check valve performance.

• Pass/Fail determination and any repairs made.

• Retest results if repairs were completed.

• Tester credentials: Certified tester’s name, certification number, signature.

• Test gauge details: Gauge serial number and calibration date (this is often required and frequently overlooked).

• Date of test and next test due date (if your purveyor includes it).

Our Backflow Testing Los Angeles experts recommend verifying that the report is legible, complete, and signed, with all numerical readings recorded—not just “Pass.”

If the Device Fails: The Repair/Retest Paper Trail

If your assembly fails, you’ll need a clear record of:

• Deficiencies found (e.g., leaking #2 check, relief valve did not open)

• Parts replaced (manufacturer-approved internal parts)

• Repairs performed

• Retest results showing compliance

Many purveyors accept a single form that includes both the initial fail and the successful retest; others require a separate repair report. Our Backflow Testing Los Angeles experts recommend completing the retest the same day repairs are made when possible to minimize downtime and administrative back-and-forth.

The Test Tag/Sticker: Small Item, Big Importance

A current test tag or sticker must be affixed to the device. It should show:

• Date of test

• Pass/Fail (pass required to stay in service)

• Tester company and certification details

• Next due date (if applicable)

Inspectors often check the tag first. Make sure the information matches the submitted report.

Where and How to Submit Your Reports

Submission varies by water purveyor:

• Online portal: Many LA-area utilities require testers to upload reports via a designated portal.

• Email: Some districts accept PDFs sent to a compliance email.

• Mail/In-person: Less common but still used by certain agencies.

Deadlines:

• Annual tests: Typically due by the anniversary date set by your purveyor.

• Post-repair: Often required within a short window (e.g., 10–30 days).

• New installations: Report and final inspection/sign-off must be completed before the device is considered active.

Our Backflow Testing Los Angeles experts recommend confirming your purveyor’s exact submission method and due date in advance. Atlas Backflow Services handles submission for you and provides proof of receipt when available.

Common Mistakes That Delay Approval (and How to Avoid Them)

• Missing gauge calibration date: Always include the calibration date and gauge serial number.

• Incomplete device info: Serial number, size, model, and exact location must be accurate.

• No repair details after a failure: If it failed, you must document parts replaced and retest readings.

• Illegible scans or photos: Submit clean, readable PDFs.

• Submitting to the wrong agency: Verify your water purveyor and their portal requirements first.

• Late submissions: Can trigger noncompliance notices or penalties.

Our Backflow Testing Los Angeles experts recommend keeping a compliance calendar for all your assemblies and centralizing copies of every test and repair report.

How Atlas Backflow Services Makes Paperwork Easy

• End-to-end handling: Testing, repairs, retesting, and official submission to your purveyor.

• USC-informed reporting: We use forms and readings aligned with industry standards.

• Record management: We maintain digital copies and can provide them on request, which simplifies audits and ownership changes.

• Compliance reminders: We’ll notify you ahead of due dates so you never miss a deadline.

FAQs

• Do I need to submit the paperwork myself?

  • Often, your certified tester submits directly to the water purveyor. Atlas Backflow Services submits on your behalf and provides confirmation when available.

• How long should I keep records?

  • Keep at least three years of test and repair records; some owners prefer five. It’s helpful for inspections, insurance, and property sales.

• What if my property has multiple devices?

  • Each assembly needs its own report, tag, and compliance tracking. We inventory and schedule them so you meet all due dates.

• Is a permit required?

  • For new installations, relocations, or significant piping changes, a permit and inspection may be required. The standard annual test itself usually doesn’t require a new permit—just timely submission of the test report.

• What if I switch water purveyors or the account name changes?

  • Update the customer and account information on file with your utility and ensure the next report reflects the new details to avoid mismatches.

Final Takeaway

For Los Angeles properties, compliant backflow documentation boils down to this: submit a complete, accurate Backflow Prevention Assembly Test Report, attach a current device tag, file repair/retest documentation when needed, and send everything to the correct water purveyor by the deadline.

When in doubt, our Backflow Testing Los Angeles experts recommend verifying submittal instructions before the test and keeping organized records.Want it done right without the paperwork headache?

Contact Atlas Backflow Services. We’ll test, repair if needed, submit the official paperwork to your utility, and keep you on schedule year after year.