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. If you can't access the system, email us at backflow@sydneywater.com.au.

Sydney Water respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land and waters on which we work, live and learn. We pay respect to Elders past and present.

We no longer accept reports for zone and individual backflow devices. Contact NSW Fair Trading if you have questions about these types of devices.

Sydney Water respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land and waters on which we work, live and learn. We pay respect to Elders past and present.

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

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.

Registration and account management How to register for your backflow prevention web lodgement account How to manage your web lodgement account details

We now audit lodgements. As part of our audit, we may ask you to provide 2 photographs for any backflow containment device test you've registered with us. The photos need to show:

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.

Licensed plumbers and accredited backflow plumbers must follow a strict procedure to help our customers fulfil their backflow prevention obligations. We have a guide that provides information for backflow prevention (1MB) containment and a collection of frequently used Backflow prevention terms (66KB).

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.

All connections to our water mains must have suitable backflow containment as set out in our policy, Your responsibilities when connected to our services (358KB).

All fire services, fire hydrant and sprinkler services require the installation of a Double Check Detector Assembly (DCDA). The materials used on the upstream side of the DCDA and including the outlet control valve must be WaterMark approved for plumbing and drainage installations. There can be no galvanised pipe and fittings on the upstream/inlet side of the containment device.

Your first test report We won't audit the first test report you upload using the new backflow prevention application. However, we will audit second and future test reports.

Register now to lodge backflow test reports All we need is your email address. Once you're registered, you'll also be able to access the backflow prevention portal via Sydney Water Tap in®. Please note: The backflow prevention portal works best in Chrome or Edge. Safari is not supported.

Are you on our list of backflow plumbers? If you're accredited and want to be on our list of backflow plumbers, email a copy of your Certificate of Attainment to backflow@sydneywater.com.au or call us on 13 20 92 8am–5:30pm Monday to Friday (except public holidays). To become an accredited backflow plumber, visit TAFE NSW and search for 'plumbing' or 'backflow'.