Most Fullerton owners first learn they have a backflow device when a letter or email arrives from the water supplier. For many addresses that is the City of Fullerton's water utility, which keeps a record of each testable assembly and when it was last tested.

The notice is not a sales pitch and it is not optional paperwork. It is the supplier's way of confirming every assembly on its system still works. Anything a contractor's flyer says about deadlines or penalties should be checked against the notice itself or with the city.

Find these on your notice

  • The device ID or serial number the city has on file.
  • The device type and size (for example RP, DC or PVB).
  • The location description, such as front planter or near meter.
  • The due date for test results.
  • How results must be submitted and by whom.
  • Where to find the list of testers the supplier accepts.
  • A contact for questions, extensions or a device you no longer have.

A sensible schedule

Leave room for a failed test, because a repair and retest takes longer than a pass.

Day the notice arrives
Read it, locate the device and photograph its tag.
Within the first week or two
Contact a tester from the accepted list and get the price in writing.
Well before the deadline
Have the test done, leaving time for repairs if needed.
After the test
Confirm the report was filed and save your copy.
Next year
Expect another notice around the same time.

If something on the notice looks wrong

  • IfThe device on your property is a different type than listedThenTell the tester and the city before the test so records can be corrected.
  • IfYou cannot find the device at allThenAsk the city for its location notes; check near the meter, sprinkler valves and building riser.
  • IfThe device was removed during remodelingThenContact the city. Removal of a required device usually needs approval.
  • IfYou will miss the deadlineThenCall the water utility directly. Extensions and consequences are set locally.

Questions to ask when booking

  1. Are you on the supplier's accepted tester list, and is your certification current?
  2. Does your price include filing the results with the city?
  3. If the device fails, can you repair it on the same visit?
  4. Will you send me a copy of the report with the readings?

Common questions

Why did I get a notice when I have never tested before?

The previous owner may have tested it, or the city may have added the device to its records after an installation or survey. Ask the city if you are unsure.

Can any plumber test my device?

Testing requires certification the water supplier accepts. Being a licensed plumber alone is not the same thing.

Does a tenant or owner handle the notice?

Usually the account holder or property owner. Leases differ, so check yours and tell the other party.

Is the test cost charged by the city?

Testers set their own prices. Ask the city whether it charges any separate fee.

General information for Fullerton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.