Hudson Irrigation & Lighting · Metro Vancouver
Backflow
Backflow
Testing & Certification
Annual backflow preventer testing is required by law across Metro Vancouver. Our certified testers provide same-week service, full documentation, and city submission — hassle-free.
500+
Tests Completed
Same
Week Availability
100%
City Compliant
Certified Testers
BC-certified backflow prevention assembly testers
City Submission
We file your test report directly with the municipality
Same-Week Service
Fast scheduling — we come to you, you do nothing
Repair If Needed
We fix failed devices on the spot — no second visit
Annual
Testing
Required
Required
What Is Backflow Testing?
Protecting Your Drinking Water
A backflow preventer is a device installed on your irrigation system that stops contaminated water — water containing fertilizers, pesticides, and lawn chemicals — from flowing backwards into Metro Vancouver's drinking water supply.
Over time, the internal check valves and seals inside a backflow preventer can wear, corrode, or fail. Annual testing verifies the device is still operating correctly and protecting your community's water supply.
- Required annually by Metro Vancouver municipalities
- Test performed with calibrated differential pressure gauge
- Pass/fail result recorded on official test report
- Report submitted to your municipality by our office
- Repair or replacement arranged if device fails
- Reminder sent the following year for next test
It's The Law — Testing Is Mandatory
Metro Vancouver municipalities require annual backflow preventer testing for all residential and commercial irrigation systems connected to the municipal water supply. Failure to comply can result in fines and disconnection from the water supply. Most municipalities require testing to be completed by a BC-certified backflow prevention assembly tester — not a general plumber. All test reports must be submitted to the municipality within 30 days of testing.
Our Service
What's Included In Every Test
Every backflow test we perform is thorough, documented, and city-ready — nothing is left for you to do.
Differential Pressure Test
Using a calibrated differential pressure gauge, we test the internal check valves and relief valve to BC Water Works standards — the same test required by your municipality.
Official Test Report
We complete a fully detailed, standardized backflow test report including device type, serial number, test results, tester certification number, and pass/fail status.
Municipality Submission
We submit your completed test report directly to your municipality's engineering or utility department — Surrey, Langley, Burnaby, Coquitlam, Delta, Richmond, and more.
Pass Tag Attached
A dated inspection tag is attached directly to your backflow preventer showing the test date, result, and our certification number — ready for any future inspection.
Minor Repairs On The Spot
If the device fails due to a worn seal or check valve, we carry common repair parts and can fix most devices on the same visit — avoiding a second trip and costly delays.
Annual Reminder Service
We keep your test on file and send you a reminder the following year so you never miss a compliance deadline — no need to track it yourself.
Device Types
Which Device Do You Have?
We test and service all three types of backflow preventers used in Metro Vancouver irrigation systems.
RPZ
Reduced Pressure Zone Assembly
The gold standard for irrigation backflow prevention. Contains two independently operating check valves and a differential pressure relief valve. Provides the highest level of protection and is required by many municipalities for commercial and residential irrigation.
Most common · Highest protection · Required in most areas
DC
Double Check Valve Assembly
Contains two independently operating spring-loaded check valves. Used in lower-hazard applications where the risk of chemical contamination is lower. Common in residential systems in some Metro Vancouver municipalities. Still requires annual testing.
Residential · Lower hazard · Annual test required
PVB
Pressure Vacuum Breaker
Must be installed at least 12 inches above the highest downstream outlet. Contains a single check valve and an air inlet valve. Effective against back-siphonage only — not suitable for backpressure situations. Common in older residential systems.
Older systems · Back-siphonage only · Annual test required
The Process
How Testing Works
A typical backflow test takes 15–30 minutes from arrival to completion.
1
We Come To You
Our certified tester arrives at your property with calibrated test equipment. You do not need to be home — just ensure access to the backflow device.
2
Perform The Test
We connect our differential pressure gauge kit to the device and test each check valve and relief valve to BC standards — takes 15–20 minutes.
3
Record & Tag
Results are recorded on the official test report and a dated inspection tag is attached to the device. You receive a copy by email.
4
We File For You
We submit the completed test report to your municipality's engineering department — nothing for you to do. Compliance confirmed.
What Happens If It Fails?
Don't panic — a failed backflow test is common, especially in older devices. We carry repair parts for the most common RPZ, DC, and PVB assemblies and can repair most failures on the same visit. If the device is beyond repair, we'll arrange a replacement and retest — getting you back into compliance quickly.
Talk To Us About A Failed Test
Where We Test
Metro Vancouver Municipalities We Serve
We submit test reports to all Metro Vancouver municipalities and are familiar with each city's specific requirements and submission portals.
Surrey
Annual testing required
RPZ mandatory for irrigation
Langley
Annual testing required
Township & City both served
Burnaby
Annual testing required
Report submitted online
Coquitlam
Annual testing required
Includes Port Coquitlam
Delta
Annual testing required
North Delta & Tsawwassen
Richmond
Annual testing required
Electronic submission
Abbotsford
Annual testing required
Fraser Valley service area
Maple Ridge
Annual testing required
Includes Pitt Meadows
Common Questions
Backflow Testing FAQ
Everything you need to know about annual backflow preventer testing in Metro Vancouver.
Do I really need to test every year?
Yes. Annual testing is required by bylaw across all Metro Vancouver municipalities for any irrigation system connected to the municipal water supply. The frequency is set to ensure the device is working correctly and protecting the drinking water supply. Skipping a year can result in a notice of non-compliance and potential fines from your municipality.
When is the best time of year to have it tested?
Most municipalities accept testing any time during the irrigation season (May–October). We recommend scheduling your backflow test alongside your spring startup or fall winterization to combine visits and save time. Fall is popular because it allows you to address any failures before the system is shut down for winter.
Can my regular plumber do the test?
Not necessarily. Backflow preventer testing in BC must be performed by a certified Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester — a separate certification from a general plumber's licence. Our testers hold this certification and use calibrated differential pressure gauges that meet BC requirements. Always verify your tester's certification number before booking.
Do I need to be home for the test?
In most cases no — as long as we have access to the backflow preventer (usually in a valve box, basement, or utility room). We will need your contact information for the test report. We'll send you the completed report and municipality submission confirmation by email after the test is done.
My device failed last year — can you help?
Absolutely. We handle failed backflow preventer repairs and replacement all the time. We carry repair kits for the most common RPZ, DC, and PVB assemblies. If the device is beyond repair, we'll source and install a replacement and perform the certification test in the same visit, getting you back into compliance without delay.
What happens if I ignore the municipality's notice?
Municipalities take backflow compliance seriously because it protects the public water supply. Ignoring a non-compliance notice can result in fines, repeat notices, and in serious cases, the municipality may require disconnection of your irrigation system from the water supply until compliance is achieved. It's far easier and cheaper to stay current with annual testing.
Book Your Backflow Test Today
Same-week availability across Metro Vancouver. We test, report, and file — you do nothing.