Backflow & Testing

Backflow testing is critical to the protection of our public water supply. Backflow can occur when street water pressure drops, reversing the flow into the water supply. Backflow Prevention Devices are a key element in the protection of water quality. In the event of a loss of water pressure, these devices prevent water from flowing backward into the public water supply.

New York State Sanitary Code Part 5, Section1.31 (a) (3) requires that every backflow device be tested by a certified backflow tester once a year. The Jericho Water District requests that all backflow devices be tested prior to June 30th of each year however, testing must be completed prior to December 31st of each year and completed test forms submitted to us no later than January 26th of the following year. For non-residential accounts, failure to meet these deadlines will result in the imposition of civil penalties of $250.00 per each untested device under Nassau County Civil Divisions Act. We recommend coordinating testing with the opening of your sprinkler system in the spring.

Once the tester has performed the test and completed the Backflow Test Form, copies must be submitted to Nassau County Health Department and Jericho Water District. Forms should include your Jericho Water District account number, name, address and phone number, your meter number with current meter reading and the backflow tester’s name and certified tester number (and if applicable, the company name and phone number). Test results should be submitted in ONE of the following ways:

Certified Testers

Most plumbing and sprinkler installation/maintenance companies have certified backflow testers and it’s wise to check with them regarding testing. You can access a list of certified testers at https://www.health.ny.gov/environmental/water/drinking/cross/backflow_testers/nassau.htm.

For more information, contact the Nassau County Health Department, New York State District Office or email the Bureau of Water Supply Protection at h20cert@health.state.ny.us.