Passing readings are only part of the story. During an inspection we check how the device is installed, whether it can drain and be accessed, and whether anything is worn, leaking or damaged.
- Price$105 flat
- TimeUnder an hour
- SchedulingSame week
- FilingIncluded
Need it done soon? Most tests are scheduled within a few days.
What an inspection covers
- Freeze and theft protection
- Drainage under RP relief valves
- Clearance and access for testing
- Shutoff valves and test cocks
- Leaks, cracks and corrosion
Inspection and testing are different things
Testing measures how the valves perform. Inspection looks at everything else: the condition of the device, how it was installed and whether it can be serviced and tested going forward.
It's possible for a device to pass every reading and still have issues. Leaks at the fittings, cracked test cocks, an RP installed below grade where it can't drain, or a device boxed in with no room to work are all common finds.
We inspect every device we test. If something looks off, we tell you what it is and whether it's urgent or just something to plan for.
Installation problems we often find
Some of the most common problems we see in Riverside come from how a device was installed in the first place. RP assemblies must stay above ground so their relief valve can drain; one sitting in a pit or a box that floods is a real concern.
Vacuum breakers need to be higher than every outlet they protect. On sloped yards, it's easy to end up with sprinkler heads uphill of the PVB, which defeats its purpose.
We also see devices installed backward, devices with no room around them for testing, and shutoff valves that won't close fully. None of these are rare, and most can be corrected. We'll explain what we found and what the fix would involve.
Signs of wear and damage
Wear tends to show before a device fails outright. Mineral crust around joints means small leaks. A relief valve that drips now and then usually means the first check needs cleaning or new rubber. Rusted hardware can turn a simple repair into a bigger one later.
We check for cracks from freezing and dents or bends from mowers, cars and landscaping work. Missing test cock caps let in debris that can affect readings.
Brass theft is also common, especially near streets and parking lots. If yours is exposed, we might recommend a cage. You'll hear which items need attention right away and which can wait.
Times to ask for an inspection
Inspection is part of every test we do, but there are times you might want one by itself. Buyers sometimes ask for it before closing on a property, especially commercial buildings with several devices.
It's also worth a look after a hard freeze, after construction or landscaping work near the device, or after a car or equipment has hit it. Property managers taking over a new building often want to know what they're inheriting.
Call and tell us what's going on. If the device is due for its annual test anyway, we'll usually do both on the same visit so you get a passing report and a full picture of its condition.
Where the water goes
RP assemblies are designed to discharge water from the relief valve when something goes wrong. That water has to go somewhere. If an RP is mounted indoors without a drain, or outdoors where discharge floods a walkway or parking lot, a small problem can cause bigger damage.
We look at where discharge would go and whether the drain or grading can handle it. If not, we'll suggest options like an air gap drain funnel or relocating the device.
How we report what we found
We keep inspection notes brief and clear. For each item, you'll see what we found, why it matters and how urgent it is: now, soon or next year.
Repairs come with prices attached. We don't pad the list, so everything on it deserves a look. Managers frequently forward the notes to owners or boards as-is.
Before you buy a property
Buying a commercial building, apartment complex or home with irrigation, pools or fire sprinklers? Backflow devices are easy to overlook during due diligence, and replacing several can add up.
An inspection before closing tells you how many devices there are, what shape they're in and whether any are the wrong type or due for replacement. That's useful when negotiating repairs or planning your first year's budget.
Found a problem?
You get a plain explanation and a price if a repair is needed.
Questions
Will an inspection fix the problems it finds?
No, but we'll explain each issue and give you a price for any repair.
Does the inspection cost extra?
It's part of every test we do. Call if you need an inspection on its own.
Can an inspection catch problems before a test fails?
Often, yes. Leaks, worn parts and bad drainage show up before the readings drop.
Will you send me what you found?
Yes. Anything worth noting goes in writing with your report.
Is an inspection the same as a test?
No. The test measures how the valves perform. The inspection looks at the device's condition and setup. We do both on every visit.
Do you inspect devices you didn't install?
Yes. We inspect every device we test, no matter who put it in.
Why Riverside customers call us for backflow inspection
We're a local company that focuses on backflow prevention. Every test is run by a certified tester with a calibrated gauge, and every report is filed with your water district as part of the job, not as an add-on.
You'll know the price before any work starts. Testing is a flat $105 per device under 4 inches and $175 for 4 inches and up, and repairs, replacements and installs are quoted first. We answer the phone seven days a week from 6am to 12pm, same-week appointments are normal, and emergency calls are taken 24/7. When the job's done, you get a copy of the report by email so you always have proof on hand.
Where we offer Backflow Inspection
Our testers handle backflow Inspection across Riverside and the surrounding area, from Jurupa Valley, Grand Terrace, Colton, Loma Linda and Moreno Valley. Call for the next opening or schedule online.