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What is a Cross Connection?
A cross-connection is any temporary or permanent connection between a public water system or consumer's potable water system (drinking water) and a source or system containing non-potable water or other substances.
What is backflow?
Backflow is the undesirable flow reversal of water, liquids, gases or other substances into the City of Raleigh Public Water Supply.
Backflow can occur when water pressure in the distribution system drops relative to a service line. This can happen due to the use of hydrants for fire fighting, water main break, high usage, or backpressure from a pump.
A backflow assembly is an assembly that allows water to travel in only one direction. When working properly it stops a contaminant such as pesticides, fertilizers or animal waste from entering the potable water supply when either a backsiphonage or backpressure event occurs. A reduced pressure assembly (RPZ) is required for both residential lawn irrigation systems and when a resident uses public domestic service while also having a private irrigation well within the property limits.
A containment assembly is the first backflow after the water/irrigation meter or fire service line, with no unprotected taps before the backflow assembly.
How can I verify my backflow is the containment assembly?
Slowly close the shut off valve to the backflow assembly. Check to see if water is still being supplied to the fixtures connected to the water service by slowly turning on faucets, irrigation systems, flushing toilets, etc. If the fixtures continue to have water flowing, then you do not have the proper backflow protection. If water flow stops, you are properly contained with a backflow assembly.
Who is required to have a backflow assembly?
Every connection to Raleigh Water’s public water system must have some type of containment backflow protection. For most residential customers, approved backflow protection is the dual check device in the meter box. Commercial customers are required to have backflow protection according to the degree of hazard for each service: domestic, irrigation or fire. Protecting the potable water supply using approved backflow protection is in accordance with the Safe Drinking Water Act Amendments of 1996, NC DEQ, NC Plumbing Code and Raleigh City Code. There is no grandfather clause exclusion for any connection to the public water supply.
Our Public Utilities Department will be conducting surveys at each commercial facility to verify there are approved backflow assemblies containing each domestic, irrigation, and fire sprinkler service.
Your facility may be found to not have the proper backflow protection, and a letter will be given to you to install an approved backflow. For more information on the requirement to install a backflow assembly you may email us or call 919-996-3245 press 4 then 2.
Why does the backflow assembly need to be tested?
A backflow assembly is a mechanical assembly that is subject to failure. It is impossible to tell if it is working by appearance only. An operational test using a differential gauge is required to determine if the backflow is working properly.
Will I receive a notice or reminder to test?
Yes, water customers with a testable backflow assembly(s) will receive an initial testing notice two months prior to the test due date. (See Testing Schedule for more details)
When am I considered in compliance?
Compliance is met when you have your backflow tested by a City of Raleigh Certified Tester and that passing operational test report has been submitted to Raleigh Water’s vendor VEPO. A residential irrigation backflow assembly is required to have a passing operational test submitted by July 1st every 3 years. A commercial irrigation backflow is required to be tested annually by July 1st. All other backflow assemblies are to be tested annually according to the zip code for the property.
What if my backflow assembly fails a test?
A failed assembly will need to be cleaned, repaired or in some cases it may need to be completely replaced. After cleaning, repair or replacement a successful re-test needs to be performed and turned into the Cross Connection Control Program within 15 days.
Who pays for this test?
Installation of a backflow assembly is required by the NC Plumbing Code and therefore is installed on private property. Raleigh City Code defines the consumer as the responsible party to maintain and test their assembly. (Raleigh City Code 8-2154)
Does the city provide testing service?
No. The City maintains a list of testers certified to work within the Raleigh water system. A tester is required to maintain a certification from a locally approved certification school, obtain annual calibration for a differential or electronic test kit, and other requirements as required by the Director of Public Utilities. Testers who do not meet these requirements are removed from the list until they have met all requirements.
Who can Install, Repair, or Replace a backflow assembly?
Licensed Class I Plumber: can install, replace, or repair irrigation, domestic, and fire backflow assemblies for all structures.
Licensed Class II Plumber: can only install, replace, or repair irrigation, domestic, or fire backflow assemblies for single-family residential dwellings.
Licensed Fire Sprinkler Contractors: can only install, replace, or repair backflow assemblies that are a part of the fire sprinkler system. They cannot install, replace, or repair irrigation or domestic backflow assemblies.
Licensed Utility Contractor: can install, replace, or repair irrigation, domestic, and fire backflow assemblies within five feet of the building.
Restricted Limited Plumbing Contractor License: can install, repair or replace exterior backflow assembly connected to water service piping two inches in diameter or less.
Notes from City of Raleigh's Cross Connection Program: A City of Raleigh Certified Tester is allowed to test any backflow in our water service area. All installations, replacements, and repairs of backflow assemblies must be performed by an approved licensed plumber or contractor.