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Assessing, installing and testing devices
Licensed plumbers and accredited backflow plumbers must follow strict procedures to ensure customers fulfil their backflow prevention obligations.
How to submit backflow test reports
Register for Backflow Prevention using your personal email address to create a backflow account. Then you can log in to Backflow Prevention anytime, or access the backflow prevention system via Sydney Water Tap in. If you can't access the backflow prevention system, email us at backflow@sydneywater.com.au.
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Step-by-step video instructions
Register and manage your account
- How to register for your backflow prevention web lodgement account
- How to manage your web lodgement account details
Submit test reports
Connections that need backflow containment
All connections to our water mains must have suitable backflow containment as set out in Your responsibilities when connected to our services.
A licensed plumber must assess each site to determine its backflow containment needs. You must let the property owner know the property's backflow containment requirements and install a backflow prevention device that matches the property's hazard rating. You must also tell the owner if the device needs to be tested each year.
- For sites with a low hazard rating, our 20 mm and 25 mm water meters already have an integral backflow prevention device in them.
- 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 must have a backflow containment device.
Sprinkler, fire hydrant and hose reel services
You must install a double check detector assembly for all sprinkler and fire hydrant services.
Materials you use on the upstream side of the connection, including the outlet control valve, must be WaterMark approved for plumbing and drainage installations.
You mustn't use galvanised pipe and fittings 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 have backflow containment protection, which will be supplied from a Sydney Water metered service.
Rainwater tanks
- 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.
Zone and individual devices
Don't register test reports for zone and individual backflow devices on our backflow prevention portal. If you have questions about these types of devices, please contact Building Commission NSW, which regulates plumbing in NSW.
Who's accredited to install and test
Inspecting, commissioning and testing medium and high hazard backflow devices
Only licensed plumbers with backflow containment prevention accreditation issued by a registered training organisation (backflow plumbers) can perform these tasks.
- Testing backflow containment devices once they're installed
Once backflow containment devices have been installed, they must be tested by a backflow-accredited plumber and registered immediately. Once they've done a test, the plumber must log in to Backflow Prevention and submit the test report.
Licensed plumbers installing and testing backflow containment devices should refer to current codes and requirements for more detailed information:
- AS/NZS 3500.1
- PCA (Volume Three of the National Construction Code)
- AS/NZS 2845
- Sydney Water connections requirements.
Glossary
Backflow prevention 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 is deemed non-drinking if there's potential for contamination from an unprotected source. |
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. |
Keep photos for when we audit
We audit lodgements. While you don't have to attach photos to test reports you upload using the backflow prevention system, we may ask you to email them to us later. You'll need to provide these 2 photographs for any backflow containment device test you've registered:
- the backflow device you tested with the serial number clearly visible
- the test kit you used.