To get accredited, complete training with a registered training organisation. You can:
- visit TAFE NSW and search for 'backflow'
- find another registered training organisation.
As a licensed plumber or backflow-accredited plumber, you must follow our procedures to help customers meet backflow prevention rules.
Who's accredited to install and test
- All licensed plumbers can install a backflow containment device.
- Only backflow-accredited licensed plumbers can commission, test and register a backflow containment device.
Devices must be registered on the Backflow Prevention portal immediately after installation.
Licensed plumbers who install or test backflow containment devices must refer to:
- AS/NZS 3500.1
- Plumbing Code of Australia (PCA), Volume Three of the National Construction Code
- AS/NZS 2845
- Sydney Water backflow requirements.
To join our list of backflow plumbers, email us at backflow@sydneywater.com.au with either of these required documents:
- your Certificate of Attainment
- evidence that you completed CPCPWT4022 Commission and maintain backflow prevention devices.
How to submit backflow test reports
- Use a personal email address and individual plumbing licence to Register for Backflow Prevention.
- Log in to Backflow Prevention or access the system through Sydney Water Tap in®.
- Submit your backflow test report.
Keep photos of the device (with the serial number) and test kit in case we audit your work.
If you can't access the system, email backflow@sydneywater.com.au.
Send us a low hazard notification
It's easy to let us know if a property you've assessed is now low hazard.
Protect our water
Video guides to get started
Video guides to submit test reports
Install the right device for your site
All connections to our water mains must have backflow containment. A licensed plumber must assess the site.
Use the hazard rating and water meter size to choose the right device.
- For sites with a low hazard rating, our 20 mm and 25 mm water meters already have a non-testable low hazard backflow prevention device (dual check) integrated within.
- If the property's water meter is larger than 25 mm, it needs a backflow prevention containment device separate to the meter. Find out more about meters and metered standpipes.
- Water supplies on all construction sites, install a backflow containment device on the water supply.
Read the full requirements in Your responsibilities when connected to our services.
You must install a double check detector assembly for all sprinkler and fire hydrant services.
Backflow containment devices must be installed within one metre of the property boundary and no more than 10 metres inside the property. You need written approval to install the device more than 10 metres inside the property.
Materials you use on the upstream side of the connection, including the outlet control valve, must be WaterMark approved for plumbing and drainage installations.
Galvanised pipework or fittings must not be installed on the upstream (inlet) side of the backflow containment device.
- All rising spindle valves must be WaterMark approved.
- All butterfly valves must be WaterMark approved and gear operated.
- Some older fire service set-ups don't have backflow prevention devices. However, if the fire service is moved or repaired (or if there's a redevelopment or upgrade of the service) then the service must be upgraded to our current requirements.
- Window or wall drencher systems require a dual check valve installed at the point of connection.
- Fire hose reel services must be protected by backflow containment, supplied via a Sydney Water metered connection.
- Vented dual check valve with atmospheric port are required for all below-ground tanks accepting rainwater only.
- Above-ground rainwater tanks are a low hazard. Properties with a 20 mm or 25 mm water meter do not require additional backflow prevention.
- High hazard applies to alternative water supplies, such as stormwater or greywater.
Do not register any test reports for zone or individual backflow devices on our backflow prevention portal. If you have questions about these types of devices, contact Building Commission NSW, which regulates plumbing in NSW.
Terms you need to know
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
AS/NZS 2845 | The Australian New Zealand Standards 2845 specify material, design, performance and testing criteria for mechanical backflow prevention devices. |
AS/NZS 3500 | The Australian New Zealand Standards 3500 provide the guidelines for installing and maintaining a backflow prevention device and is consistent with Sydney Water's backflow prevention requirements. |
back pressure | The difference between the pressure within any water service and a higher pressure within any vessel or pipework to which it is connected. For example, a customer is using water at a higher pressure than the pressure we supply. |
backflow | Flow in a direction contrary to the normal or intended direction. The unintended flow of water from a potentially polluted source into a potable water supply. |
backflow containment device | A backflow prevention device installed to protect the network water supply at the property boundary either directly after the master water meters or on the property boundary if no master water meters are present. |
backflow prevention device | A device to prevent backflow. There are a number of different devices, including reduced pressure zone device, registered air gap and testable double check valve. |
Backflow Prevention Device Inspection and Maintenance Report | The form that backflow accredited plumbers complete to certify the correct commissioning and function of the backflow device. |
backflow-accredited licensed plumber | A licensed plumber who has competently completed Commission and maintain backflow prevention devices: CPCPWT4022. |
backsiphonage | Backsiphonage occurs when the water supply pressure falls below atmospheric pressure. |
contaminant | Any solid, liquid or gas with potential to enter or pollute the potable water supply. |
cross connection | Any connection or arrangements between the drinking water supply system connected to the water main or any fixture that may under certain conditions enable non-drinking water or other substances to enter the drinking water supply system. |
drinking water | Water suitable for human consumption. |
individual backflow protection | A backflow prevention device installed at the water connection to a fixture or appliance. |
licensed plumber | A plumber with a licence issued by Building Commission NSW |
non-drinking water | Water not suitable for human consumption. |
Plumbing Code of Australia | Government legislation to provide uniform administration and technical requirements for the installation of plumbing and drainage in Australia. |
standpipe | A rigidly supported vertical length of pipe emerging from the ground with a tap or valve, serving as an outdoor water supply point. |
zone backflow prevention | A backflow prevention device installed at the connection to specified sections of a plumbing system within a building or facility. |
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