# How to choose a backflow tester

Confirm the named tester, utility acceptance, written scope and report handling.

Updated 2026-11-10. Also on the [web page](https://backflowtesters.fyi/guides/choose-backflow-tester).

Start with the utility notice. It identifies the property, requested action and deadline. A directory can help you find contact details. The water utility can tell you what it accepts for that property. A listing or paid badge on Backflow Testers does not establish certification, current registration or competence.

## Check the individual as well as the company

Ask who will perform the test. Request the credential name, issuer, number and expiry date. Check the issuer's record and ask the utility to confirm local registration. ASSE provides a certified professional search from its certification page. TCEQ provides state licence information from its BPAT licensing page.

California's official tester certification list warns that local authorities may have additional requirements. Toronto tells testers to wait until their program profile is created before testing. These sources show why a certificate and utility acceptance are separate checks.

## Confirm experience with the actual assembly

Send the manufacturer, model, type, size and serial number. Include an overall photo and the utility notice. State whether the assembly serves a domestic supply, irrigation or fire line. Ask whether the tester can handle the specific model and access conditions.

For fire line work in Texas, TCEQ describes an additional Approved Fireline Contractor employment condition. Ask how the provider meets the applicable condition instead of assuming a general testing certificate covers it.

## Compare the same scope

Request a written quote for the named equipment. Ask whether it includes travel, reporting charges, tax and a copy of the result. Ask how a failed test changes the work and price. Set a repair authorisation process before the visit. Ask which tasks require another trade or contractor.

Ask whether service will be interrupted and how access will be arranged. Provide the facility contact and site restrictions. Avoid sending access codes or personal account details in a public listing message.

## Make report handling part of the booking

Ask which portal or form the utility requires and who will submit the report. Request both the report and a receipt. Washington requires reporting acceptable to the purveyor. Toronto uses an online report form. Do not assume an invoice or an email attachment closes the utility notice.

## Read reviews as context

Reviews may describe communication or punctuality. They do not replace a current credential check. Ask for clarification when the business name, tester name or licence number does not match. If the utility cannot confirm acceptance, resolve that before booking.

After the visit, match the report serial number to the notice, keep any repair and retest records, and confirm utility acceptance. Assign the next reminder to a named person. This makes the record useful when property staff or contractors change.

## Sources

All sources below were fetched on 2026-11-10. Dates beside titles identify publication, revision or access dates. This guide is information for planning. Confirm the current requirements with your water utility.

- [ASSE International, Backflow Prevention Certification, accessed 2026-11-10](https://asse-plumbing.org/asse/personnel-certification/backflow-prevention).
- [TCEQ, Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester Licensing, accessed 2026-11-10](https://www.tceq.texas.gov/licensing/licenses/bpatlic).
- [California State Water Resources Control Board, Recognized and Accredited Tester Certifications, 2026-08-26](https://www.waterboards.ca.gov/drinking_water/certlic/drinkingwater/docs/2025/testers.pdf).
- [City of Toronto, Backflow Prevention Program, modified 2025-09-24](https://www.toronto.ca/services-payments/water-environment/water-sewer-related-permits-and-bylaws/backflow-prevention-program/).
- [Washington Legislature, WAC 246-290-490, effective 2022-01-01](https://app.leg.wa.gov/wac/default.aspx?cite=246-290-490).

## Questions

### Does Verified mean certified?

No. A paid listing badge is not a tester qualification. Check credentials and utility registration.

### Who should submit the report?

Agree this when booking. Confirm the utility form or portal and ask for the submission receipt.