Backflow testing in Indianapolis

Who has to test in Indianapolis

The rule depends on the utility that sends your water bill. Each line below is from that utility's own page.

• Citizens Energy Group: Where a cross connection exists, the customer must install an approved assembly at their own expense and have it tested by an IDEM certified tester at least annually.
• Indiana American Water: All non-residential customers must install an approved backflow prevention device where state rules require it and have it tested annually.
• Carmel Utilities: Reduced pressure principle assemblies and pressure vacuum breakers must be tested at intervals not exceeding six months, or annually if installed on an irrigation system.
• City of Lawrence Utilities: Lawrence Utilities customers whose home or business has a required backflow device must have it tested annually, under 327 IAC 8-10 and City of Lawrence Resolution No. 1, 1996.

Sources: Citizens Energy Group; Indiana American Water; Carmel Utilities; City of Lawrence Utilities

How each utility takes the test report

Most utilities here take the report online through a vendor portal; the tester files it. Open a utility for its own deadline, filing steps and fees.

What testing costs in Indianapolis

These are amounts the utility or a company published on its own page, shown as published, never averaged.

• Carmel Utilities: Backflow replacements require a Backflow Replacement Inspection; a re-inspection due to failure or equipment not ready costs the same as a trip charge (rate not stated).
• City of Lawrence Utilities: If required test certifications are not submitted, the utility sends a qualified technician to perform the test and applies an $80.00 testing fee to the customer's account.

Sources: Carmel Utilities; City of Lawrence Utilities

If the test is missed

• Citizens Energy Group: If Citizens finds noncompliance with 327 IAC 8-10 it reports it to IDEM and may disconnect service under its Rule 6.2.1.
• Indiana American Water: Failure to submit a passing test could result in termination of water service; the program page says disconnection follows repeated requests from the Cross Connection Department.
• Carmel Utilities: Failure to have the device tested in a timely manner could result in loss of water service.
• City of Lawrence Utilities: If a required backflow device is tampered with, bypassed or removed, the property owner may face water service disconnection and fines, and liability for damages if contamination results.

Sources: Citizens Energy Group; Indiana American Water; Carmel Utilities; City of Lawrence Utilities