Hiring a backflow tester is a small decision that repeats every year, so it is worth getting right once. The checklist below turns the advice in our tester guide into boxes to tick and blanks to fill.

Use one copy per company you contact. When you have two or three filled in, the right choice is usually obvious.

Credentials

  • On the water supplier's accepted tester list (check the city's list, if it publishes one).
  • Tester certification shown, with expiration date: ________
  • CSLB license number for repair or replacement work: ________
  • License looked up at cslb.ca.gov and shown as active.
  • Name of the person who will do the test: ________
  • Employee or subcontractor: ________

Scope and paperwork

  • Written price for the test, and what it covers.
  • Report filing with the city included: yes / no.
  • Copy of the report with readings sent to me: yes / no.
  • How repairs are priced if the device fails.
  • Retest after repair included: yes / no.
  • Can test all my devices on one visit: yes / no.

Red flags and what to do

  • IfThey insist on replacement before testingThenAsk why in writing, and get a second opinion.
  • IfThey cannot show certification or a license numberThenMove on to another tester.
  • IfThey say they are from the city but the notice says to hire your own testerThenCall the water utility using the contact on your notice.
  • IfThey will not put the price in writingThenKeep looking.

Quick reference

License lookup
cslb.ca.gov
Accepted testers
Ask your water supplier; for most addresses, the City of Fullerton's water utility
Deadline questions
Check with the city
Keep on file
Tester name, certification, report copy

Common questions

Should I use the same tester every year?

It can help with continuity, but nothing stops you from switching. Keep your own records so any tester can pick up the history.

Do I need to check the license for a test only?

Certification is what matters for the test. Check the CSLB license as soon as repair or replacement is discussed.

What if no one on the list is available before my deadline?

Contact the water utility and explain; ask what options exist.

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