After a backflow assembly is tested, the tester completes a report documenting the results, and that report generally needs to be submitted to your water utility or its designated tracking system to close out your compliance requirement. Simply passing the test isn't enough on its own — until the report is filed and accepted, your utility's records may still show the assembly as untested or overdue.
Who Files the Report
In many cases, the certified tester handles report submission as part of the service, either filing directly with the water utility or through a third-party compliance tracking database the utility uses to manage its cross-connection control program. In other cases, the property owner or manager is responsible for forwarding the report themselves. Don't assume — ask your tester directly whether filing is included in their service, and confirm with your water utility what their expected submission process is. The EPA's cross-connection control program overview notes that local water systems administer their own programs, which is why filing procedures aren't standardized nationwide.
Common Filing Methods
Water utilities and municipalities use a range of approaches, including:
- Direct submission by the utility's cross-connection division, often via a dedicated email address, portal, or mailed form
- Third-party compliance tracking platforms that many utilities contract with to manage assembly records, testing schedules, and report intake
- Paper forms submitted in person or by mail, still used by some smaller municipal systems
Because the method varies so much by location, the fastest way to confirm your process is to check your original testing notice or contact your water provider's cross-connection control staff directly.
What Information the Report Typically Includes
A standard backflow test report generally documents the assembly's make, model, and serial number; its location and service type (domestic, irrigation, fire line, etc.); the test date and results for each component checked; the tester's name and certification number; and gauge calibration information. Utilities use these details to maintain their required inventory of backflow assemblies in their service area, which is part of the overall cross-connection control program.
Filing Fees
Some backflow testing companies bundle report filing into their standard test price, while others charge a separate filing fee, particularly when the report goes through a third-party tracking platform that charges a per-report cost. This is usually modest but worth asking about upfront — see our backflow testing cost guide for more on what's typically included in a quote.
What Happens If a Report Isn't Filed
If a completed test never makes it into your water utility's system, the utility's records may still show your assembly as non-compliant, even though the physical test happened. This can lead to a follow-up notice, a compliance deadline, or in some cases a requirement to test again since there's no proof on file the original test occurred correctly. If you've had a test done but haven't received any confirmation from your utility, it's worth following up to make sure the report was actually received and accepted — don't assume no news is good news.
FAQs
Do I get a copy of the report for my own records? Most testers will provide the property owner a copy in addition to whatever they submit to the utility. Keep this on file, especially for commercial properties that may need to show test history during inspections or insurance reviews.
What if my report shows a failed test — does that still get filed? Yes, typically. Utilities generally expect both passing and failing reports so they have an accurate record and can track your compliance deadline for repair; see what to do after a failed backflow test.
How do I know if my report was accepted? Contact your water utility's cross-connection control division. Many maintain online lookup tools or can confirm status by phone once they've processed the submission.
How to Choose and Verify a Backflow Testing Company
Beyond correct filing, confirm your tester holds current certification — typically ASSE 5110 or your state's equivalent — and appears on your water utility's approved tester list, since a report from an unrecognized tester may be rejected regardless of how it's filed. Ask specifically whether they handle submission to your utility or its tracking platform, or whether that responsibility falls on you.
This directory is an independent, source-backed listing of public records and does not certify or endorse any backflow testing company. Verify certification, approved-list status, and correct filing procedures directly with your local water utility.