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Backflow Prevention - How to comply
Existing customers
It is recommended that you use a backflow prevention accredited plumber. An accredited plumber can install, commission and test the device. This may help to reduce your costs. Sydney Water can assist you in finding an accredited plumber. You can use our search engine to find an accredited plumber in your area.
When Sydney Water has determined that a backflow prevention containment device is required, you will have three months to install a containment device.
You will need to consult a licensed plumber, preferably with backflow prevention accreditation, to determine:
- the hazard rating of your business processes
- the type of device that is required for the hazard rating of your property.
If your property has more than one master water meter you will need to install a containment device on each of the master water meters.
What your plumber will do
Your licenced plumber will:
- install the appropriate device(s) on the outlet side of the water meter(s). There should be no connections between the master water meter and the device
- complete the Certificate of Compliance and the Backflow Prevention Device Inspection and Maintenance Report for each device
- give you a copy of these forms
The plumber will need to return these forms to Sydney Water within two days of commissioning the device to ensure your compliance with Sydney Water's requirements.
Sydney Water may audit your property to ensure ongoing compliance with the Backflow Prevention Containment Policy.
New customers
All new properties with a water connection, and a medium or high hazard rating must have a backflow prevention containment device installed in accordance with the NSW Code of Practice Plumbing and Drainage and AS/NZ 3500:1 as a condition of connecting to the water supply.
New fire service sprinkler and hydrant systems are to be installed in accordance with the NSW Code of Practice Plumbing and Drainage and AS/NZ 3500:1
You will need to consult a licensed plumber, preferably with backflow prevention accreditation to determine:
- the hazard rating of your business processes
- the device that is required for the hazard rating for your property
Where the hazards are unknown for a new commercial, industrial or mixed development, the hazard rating will default to high, requiring the installation of a device appropriate for that hazard rating.
If your property has more than one master water meter you will need to install a containment device on each of the master* water meters.
*In circumstances where there is no master water meter(s), the containment device(s) should be installed on the water supply entering the property boundary.
What your plumber will do
Your licenced plumber will:
- install the appropriate device(s) on the outlet side of the master water meter(s). There should be no connections between the master water meter and the device
- arrange for an accredited backflow prevention plumber to commission the device
- complete the Certificate of Compliance and the Backflow Prevention Device Inspection and Maintenance Report for each device
- give you a copy of these forms
The plumber will need to return these forms to Sydney Water within two days of commissioning the device to ensure your compliance with Sydney Water's requirements.
Sydney Water may audit your property to ensure ongoing compliance with the Backflow Prevention Policy.