Mon–Fri: 8am–3pm  |  Walk-In Service
πŸ“ 765 Pennsylvania Ave, San Francisco, CA 94107|Serving the Bay Area Since 1973
Municipal Compliance

Backflow Prevention
Assembly Testing

Backflow from irrigation systems, industrial equipment, or plumbing cross-connections can contaminate your building's potable water supply. International Fire Inc. provides certified backflow prevention assembly testing required annually by most California municipalities.

Commercial backflow preventer valve assembly

Protecting Your Water Supply β€” A Legal Requirement

Backflow occurs when water flows in the wrong direction through your plumbing β€” potentially pulling contaminants, chemicals, or biological hazards into the drinking water supply. Backflow prevention assemblies are installed to stop this, but only if they are properly maintained and tested.

California municipalities and the California Envirocaent Department require annual testing of all backflow prevention assemblies on commercial properties. Failing to test β€” or test on time β€” can result in fines, mandatory shutdowns, and liability if a contamination event occurs.

International Fire Inc.'s certified testers perform full pressure testing of your assembly, complete the required paperwork, and submit the test report to your local water authority on your behalf.

Annual testing is required by most California municipalities. We handle the test report and submit it to your water authority so you stay compliant without the paperwork hassle.

Our Inspection Process

A complete backflow prevention assembly test typically takes under an hour and causes only a brief, planned water interruption.

1

Visual Inspection

We examine the assembly for corrosion, physical damage, improper installation, or signs of tampering. Any issues are documented before testing begins.

2

Pressure & Valve Testing

Using calibrated test equipment, we pressure-test all check valves and relief valves to verify they open and close within required tolerances.

3

Test Report Completion

We complete the official test report required by your municipality, documenting all test readings, pass/fail results, and tester certification information.

4

Submission & Recommendations

We submit the completed report to your local water authority. If the assembly fails, we document what needs repair or replacement and can coordinate next steps.

Assemblies We Support

Backflow Preventers We Test & Service

Our certified testers are authorized to inspect, test, and repair all major commercial backflow prevention assemblies.

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Reduced Pressure Principle (RP)

High-hazard protectant assemblies designed for locations with potential chemical or biological contamination.

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Double Check Valves (DC)

Low-hazard protection commonly used on fire sprinkler lines and water main entry lines.

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Pressure Vacuum Breakers (PVB)

Often installed in commercial and large-scale residential irrigation and lawn sprinkler systems.

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Spill-Resistant PVB (SVB)

Specialized vacuum breakers designed to prevent water spillage during indoor operations.

Which Properties Need Backflow Testing?

Most commercial properties in San Francisco and throughout California are required to have backflow prevention assemblies tested annually. If your property has an irrigation system, commercial kitchen connections, fire suppression system, or industrial equipment tied to the water supply, you almost certainly have a testable assembly.

Restaurants & food service Office buildings Retail centers Hotels & motels Schools Healthcare facilities Multi-unit residential Properties with irrigation Industrial facilities Car washes

What's Included in Our Service

  • Certified backflow prevention tester
  • Full visual inspection of assembly
  • Calibrated pressure testing of all valves
  • Official test report completion
  • Submission to local water authority
  • Copy of signed report for your records
  • Repair recommendations if assembly fails
Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about annual backflow prevention assembly testing and municipal water codes.

Why is annual backflow testing required?
Backflow assemblies are mechanical devices with internal seals, springs, and moving parts. Over time, these parts degrade due to water pressure fluctuations, mineral deposits, and wear. Annual testing is required by California municipalities to verify the assembly is actively preventing contaminated water from cross-connecting into the public drinking water.
How long does a backflow test take?
A standard backflow preventer inspection and pressure test takes between 30 to 45 minutes per assembly.
Will my water supply be interrupted during the test?
Yes. We must temporarily shut off the water supply passing through the backflow assembly for about 10 to 20 minutes to perform the differential pressure measurements. We coordinate with you to select a time that minimizes disruption to your business or tenants.
What happens if my backflow preventer fails the test?
If an assembly fails, it must be repaired and retested to achieve compliance. Our certified technicians carry common replacement seals, check valves, and springs on our trucks. In most cases, we can complete the repair and perform the retest on the same day, then submit the passing report to your local water authority.

Schedule Your Backflow Inspection Today

Don't risk fines or a failed municipal inspection. Contact International Fire Inc. to schedule certified backflow testing at your san-francisco-area property.

Local Compliance Routes

Serving Businesses Throughout Central California

International Fire Inc. runs daily dispatch routes to commercial, restaurant, and industrial properties in the following cities:

πŸ“ San Francisco, CA πŸ“ San Jose, CA πŸ“ Oakland, CA πŸ“ Berkeley, CA πŸ“ Richmond, CA πŸ“ Daly City, CA πŸ“ San Mateo, CA πŸ“ Redwood City, CA πŸ“ Palo Alto, CA πŸ“ Sunnyvale, CA πŸ“ Santa Clara, CA πŸ“ Fremont, CA πŸ“ Hayward, CA πŸ“ San Leandro, CA πŸ“ Alameda, CA πŸ“ San Rafael, CA
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