Receiving a failed backflow test result is stressful, but it does not mean your water is being shut off today. With prompt action, most property owners resolve failed tests and submit passing re-test reports within two to three weeks. Here is exactly what to do — step by step.
Why Tests Fail: Understanding the Failure Report
Before taking action, understand what failed. Your certified tester’s report documents the specific measured values and which components fell outside acceptable ranges. Common failure causes include:
- Check valve #1 fails to hold — the first check valve leaks or fails to close completely under pressure differential testing. Common cause: worn rubber seat or debris lodged in the valve.
- Check valve #2 fails to hold — same issue on the second check valve.
- Relief valve opens prematurely (RPZ) — the relief valve activates before it should, indicating a weak spring or damaged diaphragm.
- Relief valve does not open (RPZ) — the relief valve fails to open at the required differential pressure threshold, indicating a stuck or corroded valve.
- Air inlet fails to open (PVB) — the air inlet does not open when pressure drops below atmospheric, failing to break a potential vacuum.
Ask your tester to explain the specific failure if the report is unclear. Understanding the failure mode helps you confirm that the repair addresses the correct component.
Step 1: Know Your Deadline
Immediately after receiving your failure report, contact your water utility to confirm:
- The deadline by which you must submit a passing re-test report
- Whether there is a grace period or extension process if repair takes longer than expected
- Whether they need to receive the re-test report directly or whether your tester submits it
Most Indiana utilities allow 30 to 60 days from the failure date to resolve the issue. If your original test was close to your compliance deadline, you may have less time than you think. Get the specific deadline in writing (or note the date from the utility representative).
Step 2: Hire a Licensed Plumber for Repair
This is a critical distinction that surprises many property owners: in Indiana, backflow assembly repair must be performed by a licensed plumber — not just a certified tester. A tester certifies that a device is working; a licensed plumber is authorized to repair or replace it.
You have two paths:
- Option A: One-stop service — many certified testers are also licensed plumbers. If your tester holds both credentials, they can perform the repair and re-test in the same visit or series of visits. Ask your tester if they offer this service — it is often the fastest and most cost-effective option.
- Option B: Separate plumber + re-test — hire a licensed plumber for the repair, then schedule a re-test with your certified tester once the repair is complete. Coordinate timing carefully to ensure the re-test is scheduled promptly after repair.
When hiring a plumber for backflow assembly work, specifically ask whether they have experience with your assembly type (RPZ, DCVA, or PVB). Not all licensed plumbers work on backflow assemblies regularly — experience with the specific device type matters.
Step 3: Repair or Replace the Assembly
Your plumber will assess the failed assembly and recommend either repair (rebuilding internal components) or full replacement.
Repair (Rebuild)
Most assembly failures are repairable. The plumber replaces the specific failed components — rubber seals, check valve seats, springs, diaphragms — using a manufacturer-approved repair kit. A rebuild is typically less expensive than full replacement and extends the life of the assembly.
Repair is appropriate when:
- The assembly body is in good condition (no corrosion, cracks, or physical damage)
- The assembly is a recognized manufacturer and replacement parts are available
- The assembly is not excessively old (most assemblies have a 10–20 year service life)
Full Replacement
Full replacement is recommended when:
- The assembly body is corroded, cracked, or physically damaged
- Replacement parts are no longer available (discontinued model)
- The assembly is at or past its service life expectancy
- The repair cost would be close to or exceed the cost of a new assembly
- Your utility requires a specific assembly type that differs from what is currently installed
New assemblies must be tested by a certified tester before being placed into service — this initial test serves as your re-test and produces the passing report your utility needs.
Step 4: Schedule the Re-Test Immediately
As soon as the repair or replacement is complete, schedule the re-test. Do not wait — every day between repair completion and re-test is time lost toward your deadline. If your tester is also your plumber, coordinate the re-test for the same visit or immediately after repair.
The re-test follows the same procedure as the original annual test. The tester measures all required pressure differentials and documents them on a new test report form. A passing re-test produces the report you need to submit to your utility.
Step 5: Confirm Report Submission
After the passing re-test, confirm with your tester that the report has been (or will be) submitted to your water utility. Depending on your utility:
- Some testers submit electronically via the utility’s online portal — confirm the tester has your account number or service address
- Some utilities require paper submission — confirm the tester will mail or fax the report within the required timeframe
- Some property owners prefer to hand-carry the report to the utility office — obtain a copy of the passing report from your tester for this purpose
Do not assume the report has been received — follow up with your utility 5 to 7 business days after the re-test to confirm the passing report is on file and your account is in compliance.
Step 6: Keep Records
Maintain copies of all test reports — both the original failing test and the passing re-test. Indiana utilities generally require test records to be maintained for a minimum of three years. These records may be requested:
- During routine utility compliance audits
- During property sale or transfer
- When renewing business licenses or permits that require compliance documentation
- If a dispute arises about your compliance history
What If You Miss the Repair Deadline?
If circumstances prevent you from completing repair and re-testing within the deadline, contact your water utility before the deadline expires — not after. Utilities have more flexibility when they hear from a property owner proactively. Explain the situation, document the repair in progress, and ask for a specific extension. Some utilities will grant 15–30 day extensions for documented extenuating circumstances.
If you miss the deadline without communication, enforcement accelerates: formal non-compliance notices, and ultimately service interruption. Restore communication with your utility as quickly as possible if you have fallen out of compliance.
Find a Certified Tester Who Handles Repairs
Use this directory to find certified testers in Indiana who are also licensed plumbers. These “one-stop” providers can handle the entire process — failure diagnosis, repair, re-test, and report submission — without requiring you to coordinate between multiple contractors. Search by your city or county to find providers near you.