| Quick facts | Answer |
|---|---|
| Cost range | About $165 per device on average; range $30 to $300 |
| Time | About 20 minutes for a test; larger systems take longer |
| Who's qualified | City-approved tester with ABPA or ASSE certification plus a CIB plumbing license |
Why Tulsa requires a pro for commercial backflow testing
Tulsa's water-meter specifications require a backflow assembly to be tested by a City of Tulsa-approved Back Flow Assembly Tester before acceptance. Commercial and industrial assemblies also need annual testing with reports filed to Tulsa Public Works Water and Sewer Services. Tulsa accepts ASSE and ABPA certifications for testers in its service area.
What a Tulsa property owner can do themselves
You can inspect your assembly visually, keep the area around it clear, and note leaks or damage before winter freezes. Tulsa's mean first 28°F hard freeze is November 14, so fall checks help. But performing the official test, filling out the certified test form, and submitting it to the city are pro-only tasks.
When to call a pro in Tulsa
Call a pro when the annual test is due, after any repair or relocation, at installation, or if the device leaks, drips, or shows visible damage. Oklahoma's plumbing code requires testing at installation, after repair or relocation, and at least annually. Tulsa's utility can also perform tests at $48 per year for 5/8-inch through 4-inch devices and $110 for 6 inches and above.
What to check before hiring a backflow tester
Ask for proof of ABPA or ASSE certification, a CIB plumbing license, and insurance, since Oklahoma has no statewide tester license and cities approve their own testers. Get a written quote covering the test, the report filing, and any repair. If a replacement is needed, a new backflow preventer typically runs $200 to $1,000 installed.
What to do next
- Check when your last annual test was filed with Tulsa Public Works Water and Sewer Services.
- Ask any tester for proof of ABPA or ASSE certification, a CIB plumbing license, and City of Tulsa approval.
- Get a written quote showing the per-device fee, report filing, and repair or replacement costs ($200-$1,000 installed if a valve fails).
- Schedule the test before Tulsa's mean first 28°F hard freeze on November 14.
- Call (918) 202-2068 or email [email protected] for a free quote from a licensed, insured local backflow testers.
Tulsa Backflow is a free referral service: an independent contractor does the work and may pay us a referral fee. You never pay us anything.
