When Am I Considered in Compliance?

You’re considered in compliance when every required backflow prevention assembly on your property has been tested by a certified tester within your local water authority’s testing window, all devices pass (or are repaired and pass), and the official results are submitted and accepted by your water provider.

Our Backflow Testing San Diego experts at Atlas Backflow Services handle each step—from testing to reporting—so your status is clear, current, and documented.

What “compliance” really means for backflow testing Compliance isn’t just about performing a test. In San Diego County, your water purveyor (the City or district that bills you for water) defines compliance through its cross-connection control program. In practical terms, you’re compliant when:

• The right device is installed: The assembly type matches the hazard (e.g., RP/RPZ for higher hazards, DCVA for moderate hazards, PVB/SVB for irrigation). Devices must be approved models and correctly oriented/installed.

• The device is testable and accessible: Test cocks and shutoff valves function; the assembly isn’t buried, obstructed, or locked away without access.

• A certified tester performs the test: The tester must hold current credentials and use calibrated gauges.

• The test passes, or repairs are completed: Any failing components are repaired or replaced with approved parts, then retested.

• Results are submitted and accepted: Your water provider receives the official report (usually via its online portal) and marks your device as compliant for the current cycle.

• Deadlines are met: Testing and reporting occur by the due date on your notice. Some providers allow a grace period, but don’t rely on it.

Our Backflow Testing San Diego experts verify each of these points so you know precisely where you stand.

How to know your compliance status right now

• Check your notice: Your due date and device serial numbers are listed on the letter or email from your water provider.

• Look for confirmation: After testing, your provider will typically mark your account/device as “Compliant” or “Accepted” in its portal. You should also receive a copy of the submitted report.

• Review the device tag: A current test tag with date, tester info, and pass status should be attached at the assembly. If you’re unsure, Atlas Backflow Services can check your device status with your provider and confirm compliance in writing.

Common testing scenarios and when you’re considered compliant

1. Annual renewal

2. You’re compliant when the current-year test is performed by a certified tester, the device passes, and the report is accepted by the water authority before the due date.

3. Tip: Schedule 2–4 weeks before the due date to allow for repairs and report processing if needed. Our Backflow Testing Los San Diego experts send reminders to keep you on schedule.

4. Failed test and repair

5. You’re compliant once approved repairs are completed and a passing retest is submitted and accepted. A failed test alone does not satisfy compliance.

6. Atlas Backflow Services stocks common repair kits for popular RPZ, DCVA, PVB, and SVB models to minimize downtime.

7. New installation or replacement

8. You’re compliant after the initial test is performed, passes, and the results are submitted and accepted. Some providers also require permits or device registration; we help coordinate this.

9. Device relocation or site changes

10. Moving an assembly or modifying connected systems often requires retesting. You’re compliant after the retest passes and is accepted.

11. Seasonal irrigation systems

12. Some water providers still require annual testing, even if the system is winterized. Others may accept a seasonal shutoff declaration. Our Backflow Testing Los San Diego experts can confirm your provider’s rules and get you compliant either way.

13. Inaccessible or locked mechanical rooms

14. If the tester cannot access the device, no test can be performed. You’re compliant only after access is provided, testing is completed, and results are accepted. We coordinate with site contacts to avoid delays.

Why acceptance by the water provider matters A printed test form is not the finish line. Most San Diego-area water authorities require electronic submission through their compliance portals.

Compliance is official only when the authority accepts the report. Our Backflow Testing San Diego experts submit same-day, track acceptance, and promptly resolve any data mismatches (like serial number errors) so your record updates correctly.What can put you out of compliance

• Missed due date: Even a passing test submitted late can trigger fees or warnings.

• Wrong device type: If site hazards change (e.g., chemical addition to a fire system), an upgrade to an RPZ may be required. Until corrected, you may not be compliant.

• Non-testable or obsolete assemblies: Some older devices are no longer approved. Replacement is needed to maintain compliance.

• Incomplete repairs: A partial fix without a passing retest does not restore compliance.

• Data discrepancies: Serial number, model, or size errors can cause the portal to flag your submission as incomplete.

What documents you should keep

• Copy of the accepted test report for each device

• Repair records and parts used (especially for RPZ and DCVA internals)

• Tester credentials and gauge calibration certificate (your provider may request them during audits)

• Photos of device location and tag for your facility records Atlas Backflow Services provides digital copies and photo documentation so audits are straightforward.

How often do you need to test to stay compliant?

• Most devices: Annually

• After repair, replacement, or relocation: Immediately, with a submitted passing retest

• Special hazards or facilities: Your provider may specify more frequent intervals Our Backflow Testing San Diego experts verify your exact frequency and set automated reminders tailored to your provider’s rules.

Compliance checklist you can use today

• Confirm your water provider and due date

• Verify device make, model, size, and serial numbers match provider records

• Ensure clear access to each assembly

• Schedule testing 2–4 weeks before due

• Approve repairs promptly if needed

• Confirm submission and acceptance by your provider

• Save the accepted report for your files If any step is unclear, Atlas Backflow Services will handle it for you.

Why choose Atlas Backflow Services to maintain compliance

• Local expertise: We work daily with San Diego’s city and district programs and know their submission systems and timelines.

• Certified testers and calibrated equipment: Reliable, defensible results that pass administrative review.

• Repair-ready: Stocked parts for major RPZ, DCVA, PVB, and SVB models to turn failures into passes fast.

• End-to-end service: Scheduling, testing, repairs, reporting, acceptance confirmation, and reminders—all in one place.

• Clear communication: Upfront pricing, photo documentation, and proactive updates so you’re never guessing.

Get compliant—and stay that way If you’re asking, “Am I considered in compliance?” the safest next step is to verify your device status and due dates.

Our Backflow Testing San Diego experts at Atlas Backflow Services will check your provider’s records, perform accurate testing, complete any needed repairs, submit results the same day, and confirm acceptance.

Contact Atlas Backflow Services to secure your compliance now and keep your water safe, your operations smooth, and your account in good standing year-round.