NYC Backflow Prevention

We want to help you protect yourself and NYC's water! That's why we offer competitively priced backflow testing and installation services. Let's work together to keep our water safe and secure.

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Backflow inspections and installations

We offer affordable backflow testing services throughout the Metro NYC area. Our knowledgeable staff is available to answer your questions about violation removals, backflow prevention, testing, and the importance of keeping your water free from contamination.

What is backflow?

Backflow is when untreated water gets into the public system. It can happen any time there is a connection between potable water pipes and other pipes or sources that have contaminated water.

In an unprotected system, water can—and does—flow both in and out of a building or fixture. The backflow is known as back-siphonage. When water service is interrupted in the street or in a building for any reason, there is a pressure drop that can draw contaminated water backwards into the water system. 

What is backflow prevention device?

Backflow preventers, also known as RPZs, protect the city’s water supply from outside contamination. 


The devices operate by allowing water to flow in only one direction—whether it is into a boiler, a hair salon, a drycleaners or into the building itself. RPZs are required wherever an end user poses a risk of polluting the city’s water.

Who must install backflow prevention devices?

Backflow is when untreated water gets into the public system. It can happen any time there is a connection between potable water pipes and other pipes or sources that have contaminated water.

What kind of backflow installations do you do?

We provide installation services for your water pipes that will prevent the backflow of contaminated water and hazardous material. 

Including RPZs (reduced pressure zone), DCV (double-check valves), and DCDAs (double-check detector assemblies).

How often do I need an inspection?
If it's a new system, the law requires a LMP Licensed Master Plumber test the device upon installation. For existing backflow devices, a certified tester must perform an annual inspection and it must be signed by a LMP.

Quix takes care of all the filing, submits the required GEN-215B Backflow Reports, and sends a final report within the allotted 30 days after testing and installation. 
What are the penalties?

The penalty for not filing your annual inspection may result in a civil penalty / fine of up to a $1,000.00 and termination of water service.


Continued non-compliance or failure to meet the legal backflow prevention mandate may lead to both civil and criminal action.

Do you send out annual inspection reminders?

We send out annual backflow preventer inspection reminders as well as monthly sprinkler inspection reminders, and Local Law 152 periodic gas inspection reminders.


NYC residents will receive a notification letter in the mail from the NYC EP when your backflow prevention device is due for its annual test. 

Do you fix backflows?

Our plumbers can fix any problems that you are having with your backflow preventer. We will make sure that the water is not going into the city's water supply. If your backflow preventer does not meet the city's regulations, we can repair it or replace it and pull all the necessary permits.

How much does a backflow installation cost?

The following prices are estimated based on average industry prices for parts and labor:

  • For very small buildings (1 story) installation should cost between $3,000 and $5,000.
  • For small buildings (2 story) installation should cost between $3,750 and $5,500.
  • For small to mid-size buildings (car washes, laundromats, small manufacturers) installation should cost between $5,000 and $7,000.
  • For mid-size buildings (office complexes, large manufacturers or department stores) installation should cost between $7,500 and $13,000.
  • For large buildings (High rises, hospitals) installation should cost between $14,000 and $34,000.
Do I need more than one backflow prevention device?

If your property is required to have a backflow prevention device and has multiple water service lines, you must install a device on each line.

How do I avoid a notice of violation?

If you recently received an order to install a backflow prevention (which has a 30-day deadline), as long as DEP has certification in writing from a Licensed Master Plumber (LMP), that a device is in the process of being installed, you will not receive a Notice of Violation.

How I find out more information about backflow prevention devices?

Visit your local governments website; specifically the water and sewer section. For NYC residents, call 311 to have your inquiry forwarded to a DEP representative.