Backflow prevention
Our backflow prevention application has been upgraded and is now available. To use the system, you'll first need to Register for backflow prevention using your email address.
For more details, please read:
- Important changes to Backflow Prevention application
- Upgraded Backflow Prevention application frequently asked questions.
Watch these short videos to see how to use the new backflow online system.
Registration and account management
How to register for your Backflow Prevention web lodgement account
How to manage your web lodgement account details
Submitting test reports
How to submit an annual test report for an existing device on a Sydney Water meter
How to submit an initial test report for a new device on a Fire service
How to submit a test report for a replacement device on a Boundary connection
How to submit a defect rectification report
Information for plumbers
The materials used on the upstream side of the Double Check Detector Assembly (DCDA) and including the outlet control valve must be WaterMark approved for plumbing and drainage installations.
No galvanised pipe and fittings on the upstream/inlet side of the containment device.
- All rising spindle valves must be WaterMark approved
- All butterfly valves must be WaterMark approved and gear operated
Contact NSW Fair Trading if you have any questions about these type of devices.
Backflow prevention devices reduce the risk of contaminating our water supply.
All connections to our water mains must have suitable backflow containment.
What plumbers must do
Licensed plumbers must assess each site to work out its specific backflow containment needs.
If you've determined the site's hazard rating as low, our 20 mm and 25 mm water meters already have a simple backflow prevention device in them. If the property's water meter is larger than 25 mm, you'll need a separate backflow device. Find out more about meters and metered standpipes.
You must advise the property owner of the backflow requirements and install a backflow prevention device appropriate to the property's hazard rating. You must also tell the owner if the device needs to be tested each year.
Only licensed plumbers with backflow prevention accreditation issued by a registered training organisation (backflow plumbers) can inspect, commission and test medium and high hazard backflow devices.
Once backflow devices have been installed, only backflow plumbers can test them. Once a test has been done, backflow plumbers must submit the test report using our online lodgement system.
Soon, all plumbers will be able to tell us about the installation of low hazard devices via Sydney Water Tap in™.
We maintain a list of backflow plumbers.
If you're already accredited and want to be on our list, email a copy of your Certificate of Attainment to backflow@sydneywater.com.au or call us on 13 20 92.
If you want to become an accredited backflow plumber, visit TAFE and search for 'plumbing' or 'backflow'.
We now audit lodgements.
As part of our audit, we may ask you to provide two (2) photographs for any backflow containment device test you've registered with us. The photos need to show the:
- backflow device you tested with the serial number clearly visible
- test kit you used.
You don't need to attach photographs to your test reports when you upload them using the new backflow prevention application. However, your uploaded test reports may be subject to an audit. If we audit your lodgement, we'll send you an email asking you to email the photographic evidence to us as proof.
For more details about the photographic evidence we may ask for, please read:
Use our online lodgement system to submit your backflow test report.
To access the system for the first time, you'll need to Register for backflow prevention using your personal email address.
Watch these short videos to see how to register, maintain your account details and submit an annual test report.
How to register for your Backflow Prevention web lodgement account
How to manage your web lodgement account details
How to submit an annual test report for an existing device on a Sydney Water meter
If you can't access the system, email us at backflow@sydneywater.com.au
Backflow prevention containment devices must meet our connection requirements.