Backflow Assembly Testing
Submitting Test Reports
Seattle Public Utilities is currently using www.XC2Live.net for online test report entry. This allows WA-certified backflow assembly testers (BATs) to submit test reports online 24/7, from the field or office, using this application. It is free to sign up and submit reports that are completed in accordance with our guidelines and contain all the information required by Washington Administrative Code (WAC) 246-292-036. BATs/testing companies working in Seattle are required to sign up to submit test reports at www.bftester.com/seattle. For sign up questions or concerns, please contact XC2Live at XC2Live@SwiftComply.com or call (888) 887-5492.
Our goal with this process is to help BATs testing in Seattle's direct water service area by making test report submittals more convenient; submit reports 24/7 from the field or office, access to the full list of assemblies due for testing, and receive immediate status confirmation. This enhancement also helps the assembly owners avoid potentially unnecessary non-compliance charges. If you have questions about your backflow assemblies or Seattle’s testing requirements, please contact us at SPU_Backflow@Seattle.gov or (206) 684-3536.
View or download SPU’s assembly test report form: Backflow Preventer Inspection and Field Test Report (PDF)
Testing Compliance Questions & Answers
Why do I have to test my backflow assembly every year?
Backflow prevention assemblies are installed to protect your drinking water from potential sources of contamination. The only way to ensure that they are working properly is to have them tested by a certified Backflow Assembly Tester. It's also Washington State law.
Who can test backflow assemblies?
All backflow prevention assemblies must be tested by a State of Washington Certified Backflow Assembly Tester. There are a large number of certified testers in the area who are all required to follow the same testing procedures. Customers are encouraged to contact several testers and find one that meets your pricing and scheduling needs. Certified testers can be found using web searches and by asking friends, neighbors, and family. An official listing of certified testers is kept by Washington Certification Services.
Please note that the tester is responsible for providing SPU with copies of their current state certification and test equipment calibration certificates. Test reports cannot be submitted using XC2Live's online portal without current information in our system.
I have my backflow assembly tested every year as required, but my neighbor says that they have never heard of the testing requirement.
There may be several reasons why your neighbor has not received any test due notices from Seattle Public Utilities. The most common reason is that we do not know about the installation. Sometimes customers make modifications to their water system and do not have them inspected. Your neighbor may also have installed a non-testable device. There are very specific installation requirements that must be met for non-testable devices that make them impractical for many customers to use.
What will happen if I don't test my backflow prevention assembly?
It is important to test your backflow prevention assemblies annually to ensure that they are working properly. Failure to test an assembly increases the risk that the assembly will fail to protect your drinking water from potential contamination.
Seattle Public Utilities sends out reminder notifications about backflow assembly testing requirements. The water service owner is responsible for ensuring that the assemblies are tested on time. If an assembly is not tested, SPU will take enforcement action including the assessment of non-compliance charges and potential termination of water service. Seattle Public Utilities will work with customers to help avoid these actions. If you have any questions or concerns about our regulatory enforcement efforts, please contact us at SPU_Backflow@Seattle.gov or (206) 684-3536.