Cross Connection / Backflow Prevention

Backflow Prevention

  • Drinking water can become contaminated due to what is known as, backflow.
  • This contamination can occur because connections “crossed” between the drinking water supply and a contamination source, and contaminants “back flowed” into the drinking water system.
  • In order to protect public health and ensure adequate drinking water quality, the Ministry of the Environment enforces the Safe Drinking Water Act which, among other things, imposes a statutory obligation on owners of drinking water systems to show due diligence in maintaining water quality.
  • As a result, the Town of New Tecumseth recognized a need to address the risk of backflow into its drinking water systems from privately owned properties by implementing the Water Distribution System – Utility Services Cross-Connection Control / Backflow Prevention By-law 2012-160 (as amended).
  • Those properties with installed devices must arrange to have the backflow prevention device tested annually by a qualified person and submit test results online through BSI Online.

 The main components of the program involve:

  1. A survey of the property to identify cross-connections, risks and the recommended type of backflow prevention device required
  2. Installation of the required backflow prevention device, where needed, under a Town of New Tecumseth plumbing permit
  3. Maintenance and annual testing of the backflow prevention device

Testing and Reporting

  1. Testing of your backflow devices is required to be completed yearly by a licensed backflow tester
  2. You will receive a letter from BSI regarding your backflow testing due date. You will need to provide a copy of this letter and/or your Customer Confirmation Number (CCN) to your tester.
  3. Your tester will be required to submit the results of the backflow tests online. There is a $15.95 fee for each test that needs to be filed.
  4. As of March 1, 2022, paper copies of test results will not be accepted

If you require a device, and do not have one, here are the steps to take:

  1. Confirm that the Town of New Tecumseth requirements for backflow prevention apply to your property
  2. If you are a new owner of the property, investigate what backflow device(s) are already installed on your property and, if any:
    • Arrange for a Cross-Connection Survey by an authorized person
    • Review the survey with the authorized person, so that you understand the survey results
    • Submit the completed survey to the Town of New Tecumseth.
    • Submit an Application to Construct or Demolish (Plumbing Permit application)
    • As soon as possible, arrange to have an authorized person install the required backflow prevention device, following the conditions of the issued Plumbing Permit

Properties not in compliance that pose a risk to the Town's water supply, under the By-Law:

  1. Order the owner to install or test a backflow prevention device
  2. Shut off water until a device is installed
  3. Have work done at the property, at the owner's expense
  4. Shut off the water supply to the property until the condition is eliminated