Backflow is the unwanted reversal of water into a potable water system. This can occur when water pressure drops in the municipal supply, causing contaminated water to flow backward into drinking water lines. Cross-connections between city water and non-potable sources increase this risk.
Municipalities across British Columbia — including Vancouver — require annual backflow preventer inspection and testing performed by certified technicians. Otis Fire Protection Inc. provides reliable backflow inspection, testing, repair, installation, and annual certification.
Our technicians are BCWWA-certified and experienced in servicing all backflow device types used in commercial, residential, and industrial buildings.
- Backflow of water from rusted sprinkler pipes into the potable water system
- Garden hoses used for pesticides or fertilizers connected to domestic water supply
- Commercial dishwashers allowing wastewater to flow back into drinking water lines
Backflow preventer devices protect the drinking water supply from contamination and must be inspected annually to ensure they function properly.
Backflow prevention assemblies degrade over time due to wear, corrosion, or mechanical failure. Regular inspection identifies problems early and ensures municipal and provincial compliance.
Otis Fire technicians are trained and certified to perform:
- Reduced pressure zone device inspection
- Pressure detector checks
- Control valve status (sealed, locked, or supervised) — NFPA 25: 13.1.1.2
- Double-check valve inspection
- Control valve verification — NFPA 25: 13.1.1.2
- Full forward flow test — NFPA 13: 10.10.2.5.1
- Complete operational backflow test
- Irrigation backflow testing — NFPA 25: 13.7.1
- Verification of internal component function — NFPA 25: 13.7.1
A forward flow test ensures proper water flow through a backflow preventer at system demand. It is required during construction, after installation, and annually thereafter.
NFPA 13 Requirements:
- A means of conducting a forward flow test must be installed downstream of every backflow assembly.
- All backflow assemblies must be tested annually to verify proper operation.
- Flow rate must meet system demand, including hose stream requirements when applicable.
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Vancouver, Surrey, Burnaby, Richmond, Delta, Coquitlam, Port Moody, Maple Ridge, Pitt Meadows, Langley, New Westminster, North Vancouver, West Vancouver, Abbotsford, Mission, and Chilliwack.
Contact Otis Fire Protection to schedule your annual backflow inspection, forward flow test, or device installation.
Most municipalities, including Vancouver, require annual testing by a certified technician.
Yes. Annual testing is required by municipal bylaws to protect drinking water quality.
Most inspections take 20–45 minutes depending on location and device type.
Yes. We complete and submit the official City of Vancouver Backflow Test Report after inspection.
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