Louisiana backflow testing rules
Louisiana's sanitary code (LAC 51:XII.344.B) requires every water supplier to adopt a written backflow prevention plan and to make a reasonable effort to keep only compliant customers connected; each water system sets its own program within that floor.
Who sets the rules in Louisiana
LAC 51:XII.344.A defines mandatory containment practices as those in the state Uniform Construction Code (LAC 17:I), which adopts the International Plumbing and Residential Codes with Louisiana amendments, including their maintenance and testing requirements.
Source: Each Louisiana water supplier must have a written backflow prevention plan
Is an annual test required?
Louisiana amended IPC Section 312.10.2: RP, double check, pressure vacuum breaker, detector and spill resistant assemblies are tested at installation, right after repair or relocation, and at least annually.
Louisiana amended IPC Section 312.10.3: the assembly owner makes sure tests are done on time, gives the water supplier or building official advance notice so they can witness, and pays for all tests and repairs.
Source: Backflow assemblies are tested at installation, after repairs and at least once a year
Which properties need a backflow preventer
Louisiana's amended plumbing code, Table 608.18.1: an RP assembly for premises such as hospitals, funeral homes, car washes, marinas and food plants; a double check for fire sprinkler systems, office buildings over three floors and jails. Hazards not listed are handled as the water supplier or code official directs.
Louisiana amended IPC Section 608.16.5: an atmospheric vacuum breaker, pressure vacuum breaker or RP assembly; systems with separate zones need a pressure vacuum breaker or RP, and an RP where chemicals are added. Table 608.18.1 lists irrigation systems for a pressure or spill resistant vacuum breaker at containment.
Louisiana amended IPC Table 608.18.1: three or more dwelling units on a master meter need a double check valve assembly, and so do two units unless both are on land with the same owner and neither is used commercially. A single home on its own meter is not on the table.
Source: Listed commercial and multi unit premises need a containment assembly at the meter
Who may do the test
LAC 51:XII.346.B: backflow preventers may be tested by a plumber licensed by the State Plumbing Board of Louisiana who holds its water supply protection specialist (WSPS) endorsement.
LAC 51:XII.346.B: testers meeting ASSE 5110, or holding a testing certificate from a national backflow certification body approved by the state health officer, may test. LDH lists these as Approved General Testers. Licensed landscape irrigation contractors with a special WSPS endorsement may test irrigation backflow preventers.
Sources: Licensed plumbers with a water supply protection specialist endorsement may test; Testers holding a recognized national certificate may also test
How the test report is filed
Louisiana amended IPC Section 312.10.3: after each test the owner gives the records to the water supplier (for containment assemblies) or the building official, and keeps all records for at least 5 years.
Source: Test records go to the water supplier for containment assemblies
If a test is missed
LAC 51:XII.344.C: unless the state health officer directs otherwise, a water supplier disconnects or refuses to connect customers who fail to follow mandatory containment practices or fail to allow confirmation that they do.
Source: Water suppliers must disconnect customers who do not comply
Finding a tester
The LDH PDF lists each approved general tester's company, certifying body, city, phone, email and expiration date. WSPS endorsed plumbers are on the State Plumbing Board of Louisiana roster instead.
Source: LDH publishes a statewide list of Approved General Testers
Common questions
Is backflow testing required every year in Louisiana?
Yes. Louisiana's amended plumbing code (IPC 312.10.2) requires backflow assemblies to be tested at installation, right after repairs or relocation, and at least once a year.