Don’t risk hefty fines or water service interruption. WSSC backflow testing is required when the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission (WSSC) determines that a property’s plumbing system could allow contaminated water to flow back into the public water supply. If you’ve received a WSSC backflow testing notice, the requirement is regulatory, time‑sensitive, and must be handled by an approved, properly licensed plumber.
Durance Plumbing is a WSSC‑approved provider specializing in backflow testing, repair, replacement, and compliance documentation throughout the WSSC service area.
WSSC requires annual testing for all commercial properties and select residential systems to ensure clean drinking water for the community.
Backflow testing is the process of verifying that a backflow prevention assembly is operating correctly and protecting the potable water supply from contamination. WSSC mandates testing on specific plumbing connections that present a cross‑connection risk, including commercial buildings, medical offices, restaurants, irrigation systems, fire protection systems, and certain multi‑family or mixed‑use properties.
The test itself must be performed using calibrated equipment and documented in accordance with WSSC Cross‑Connection Control Program requirements.
WSSC’s cross‑connection control program exists to protect public health. Backflow can occur due to:
When these conditions occur, contaminated water can be siphoned back into the public system unless a properly functioning backflow preventer is in place.
Because of this risk, WSSC requires:
A WSSC backflow notice typically means one of the following:
The notice will include a compliance deadline. Failure to respond can result in enforcement actions, including warnings, fines, or water service interruption.
Most WSSC‑regulated backflow prevention assemblies must be tested annually. Some installations may require testing after installation, repair, or relocation.
Testing must be performed by a properly licensed and certified backflow technician. Not all plumbers are authorized or qualified to conduct WSSC backflow testing.
If a device fails, WSSC requires corrective action. This may involve repair, rebuilding, or replacement, followed by a passing retest.
WSSC can take enforcement action for non‑compliance, which may include notices, penalties, or water service interruption if deadlines are ignored.
We complete the required test documentation and provide guidance on submission. Submission requirements can vary depending on the type of account and device.
Most standard backflow tests take 30–60 minutes, depending on device size, condition, and site access.
Yes. We regularly repair and rebuild older assemblies when feasible and advise replacement when repairs are no longer reliable or cost‑effective.
Durance Plumbing follows a structure process designed to meet WSSC requirements and minimize disruption.
Verify device type, size, condition and accessibility
Perform testing using calibrated equipment
Pass/fail determination provided on site
Discuss options if the device fails
Complete required test forms and submission guidance
We perform WSSC backflow testing throughout the WSSC service area, including but not limited to:
If your property receives water service from WSSC, we can assist with compliance.
If a backflow assembly fails testing, WSSC requires corrective action. Depending on the condition of the device, this may involve:
We service and repair common WSSC‑regulated assemblies, including reduced pressure zone (RPZ) assemblies and double check valve assemblies.
If you’ve received a WSSC backflow notice or need scheduled testing, contact Durance Plumbing to arrange certified service and compliance support.
Backflow testing is not general plumbing work. It requires regulatory knowledge, certification, and experience working within WSSC’s program.
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