Every week we hear from homeowners holding a letter (or email) from the city that says something like “Backflow Prevention Assembly Test Due.” Many have never heard of a backflow preventer, and some aren’t sure the notice is real. Good news: it’s a normal part of how Texas protects drinking water, and taking care of it is simple.
Why you got the notice
The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality requires public water systems to run a cross-connection control program (TCEQ RG-478). Part of that program is tracking the backflow devices on homes and businesses, and making sure they get tested on schedule.
If your home has a sprinkler system, a pool with an auto-fill, or certain other connections, you likely have a backflow preventer, usually in a small box near your water meter. As the City of Round Rock explains, “Residential properties with irrigation systems, pools, or fire sprinkler systems are required to have a backflow prevention device. These devices are typically located by the curb in a separate box by your water meter box” (Round Rock).
Who sends the notices?
Many cities in our area use an outside company to track devices and collect reports:
- Round Rock, Leander and Cedar Park use Backflow Solutions, Inc. (BSI Online). Round Rock sends notices through BSI 30 days before your due date.
- Austin Water tracks devices in its own system and requires testers to be registered with Austin Water.
- Other cities and water districts, including Georgetown, use their own systems or other vendors.
So a notice that mentions BSI is legitimate if your city uses BSI. If you’re ever unsure, call your utility using the number on its official website, not a number in an unexpected email.
The four steps
1. Find your account or confirmation number
Round Rock’s notices include a Customer Confirmation Number (CCN), and the city asks you to give it to your tester. Other cities use similar numbers. Snap a photo of the notice so you have it handy.
2. Hire a licensed tester who is registered with your city
Testers must hold a TCEQ backflow prevention assembly tester (BPAT) license, and most cities also require them to register. Round Rock keeps a list of registered testers. Leander points homeowners to the BSI website for its list (Leander). Bluebonnet Backflow is listed with Round Rock and Austin Water, and files through BSI Online.
3. Get the test done
A typical residential test takes a short visit. The tester shuts the device off briefly, connects a calibrated gauge to its test cocks, and checks that each valve holds as designed. Let us know about gates, dogs or anything blocking the box when you book.
4. Make sure the report gets filed
This is the step that actually clears your notice. In Round Rock, Leander and Cedar Park, the testing company submits the report electronically through BSI. With Bluebonnet, your report is filed electronically with your city once payment is received, and city filing fees are included in our price. In Round Rock you can check your status yourself at BSIOnlineTracking.com using your CCN.
After you schedule the test, you can also watch for the filed report in your city’s portal. We put the BSI Online, VEPO, and Austin Water (WEIRS → Klir) links in one place: Check Your Backflow Test Status. Not sure which system your city uses? Check your notice letter or call us at 512-835-2211.
What if you ignore it?
Don’t. In Round Rock, if a device isn’t tested on time, “the City will have it tested, and a testing fee of $75 plus the actual cost of each test will be charged to your water bill.” Other cities have their own enforcement, which can include water service actions under their ordinances. A $100 test is the easier path.
What if the notice is for a fire sprinkler device?
Some homes, especially newer ones, have a residential fire sprinkler system with its own backflow device. We don’t test fire sprinkler or fire-suppression backflow devices. In Texas those must be tested by someone working for a state-registered fire sprinkler company. If you have both an irrigation device and a fire line, we can handle the irrigation one.
FAQ
Is a BSI backflow notice a scam?
No. BSI Online is the tracking vendor for several local cities, including Round Rock, Leander and Cedar Park. Verify through your city’s website if you’re unsure.
How much time do I have?
Use the due date on your notice. Round Rock sends notices 30 days ahead.
Does Bluebonnet pay the city filing fee?
Yes. City filing fees are included in our price, and we file the report electronically after payment.
I can’t find my backflow device. Now what?
Look in a rectangular box near the water meter, or near where your sprinkler line leaves the house. We can locate it during the visit.
Let us handle it
Have your notice handy and Book Now, or call or text 512-835-2211. See city details on our Round Rock, Leander and Cedar Park Backflow Testing pages, or read our Backflow Testing FAQ.
Need a backflow test?
$100 residential test. City filing fees included. Your report is filed electronically with your city once payment is received.