Backflow Device Inspections

Ensure Your Water Supply Remains Contamination-Free

One of the pivotal measures taken by the city to prevent water contamination is the Backflow Inspection. A backflow inspection is a routine check of the plumbing systems in a building to ensure that contaminated water or hazardous materials do not flow backward into the public water supply. Due to changes in pressure, there's a potential for non-potable water to reverse its direction and mix with the potable water supply, leading to health hazards. NYC's stringent regulations mandate regular inspections of backflow prevention devices to keep the city's water safe and pure.

Who Is Required To Have A Backflow Device?

In New York City, the installation of a backflow prevention device is mandated by the New York City Department of Environmental Protection (NYC DEP). The requirements are designed to protect the public water supply from potential contamination. Here's a brief overview of who in NYC is required to have a backflow device:

Commercial Properties: Most commercial buildings are required to have backflow preventers, especially if they have equipment like boilers, cooling towers, or chemical feed systems.
Multi-family Residential Buildings: Especially those with a boiler that uses water treatment chemicals or those that have a water-cooled air conditioning system.
Properties with Irrigation Systems: Lawns or garden irrigation systems can allow fertilizers or pesticides to enter the water supply if not protected by backflow devices.
Properties with Fire Sprinkler Systems: Depending on the type of system and the chemicals used, these can necessitate backflow devices.
Properties with Pools or Fountains: The chemicals used in pools and fountains can contaminate the potable water supply if a backflow occurs.
Buildings with Certain Types of Medical or Dental Equipment: Equipment that connects to the water supply can introduce contaminants.
Industrial Properties: Especially those that use or produce chemicals, contaminants, or pollutants.
Other Specific Hazards: As determined by the NYC DEP. The DEP will review water usage, internal plumbing, and other factors to determine if a property poses a potential risk to the public water supply.

If the NYC DEP determines that a building needs a backflow prevention device, the property owner will receive a notice and will be required to have one installed and then regularly tested. For a more detailed list, please refer to the NYC website.

Why is it Necessary for NYC Buildings?

Given the dense urban environment and the intricacies of NYC's plumbing infrastructure, backflow can pose significant risks. A timely inspection:

Protects Public Health: Ensures that contaminants don't enter the drinkable water supply.
Compliance with Local Regulations: NYC mandates regular backflow inspections for many buildings to ensure community health and safety.
Peace of Mind: Property owners can rest assured knowing they are not inadvertently contributing to potential health hazards.

Backflow Inspection Frequently Asked Questions

Why does NYC mandate having a backflow device?

New York City mandates the use of backflow prevention devices to safeguard the city's public water supply. Here are the primary reasons for this mandate:

Protect Public Health: The primary reason is to ensure that contaminants do not enter the public drinking water system. Without adequate backflow prevention, pollutants or contaminants from a building's internal plumbing system can flow backward into the public water supply.

Avoid Contamination Events: Certain conditions, such as a significant drop in water pressure due to a main break or firefighting activities, can cause water to flow backward (backflow). In situations where buildings utilize chemicals or other non-potable sources, there's a risk these could enter the drinking water without backflow prevention.

Diverse Usage of Water: NYC is home to a vast array of businesses, industries, and residences, each with unique water usage patterns. Some establishments, like factories, medical facilities, or commercial complexes, use water in ways that can introduce contaminants. Backflow devices ensure that these contaminants don't reverse into the city's water.

Past Incidents: Like many cities, NYC has learned from past experiences. Incidents in various places over the years have highlighted the dangers of not having backflow preventers, leading to stricter regulations.

Alignment with Best Practices: Mandating backflow devices aligns NYC with best practices and standards set by water industry professionals and health experts. Many cities across the U.S. have similar requirements to protect their residents.

Legal and Regulatory Compliance: By mandating these devices, NYC ensures that it remains compliant with state and federal water quality standards and regulations.

In summary, the mandate is a proactive measure designed to prevent potential health hazards and ensure the consistent safety and quality of New York City's drinking water.
How often do I need to have this inspected?

Upon installation and every 12 months afterwards.
Who can perform the inspection/testing?

Inspection must be completed by a state certified backflow prevention device tester.
What if I don't comply?

Non-compliance can result in penalties and you risk having your water service disconnected.
Can I file for an exemption for this backflow requirement?

Exemptions must be filed by a Professional Engineer (PE) or Registered Architect (RA) on behalf of the property owner. The PE or RA will need to provide all required information in a typed letter on their letterhead and fully state that all necessary exemption conditions have been met. All letters must be sent to DEP for approval.