Quebec backflow preventer guide

01

What is a backflow preventer?

A backflow preventer is a mechanical device intended to stop polluted or contaminated water from returning to the potable water supply.

It protects the building network and, depending on the connection, the municipal network from backsiphonage or backpressure risks. A check valve is not necessarily a backflow preventer; selection depends on the risk and installation.

02

Which buildings are concerned?

The RBQ framework notably addresses institutional, commercial and industrial buildings. Existing entirely residential buildings with fewer than 9 units or fewer than 3 storeys are excluded from certain premise-isolation obligations; equipment creating a cross-connection risk may still require protection.

03

How often is a backflow preventer tested?

Quebec references indicate that certain devices are tested after installation, after cleaning, repair, restoration or relocation, once each year, and as directed by the authority having jurisdiction.

Who can perform the test?

The provincial VDAr registry lets owners verify tester status. Regulated testing must be assigned to a person with appropriate active status. Norméo organizes the request and building record; its commercial relationship with a verifier partner remains in finalization.

04

What does the cycle look like?

1. Inventory and accessAddress, known devices and site contact.
2. TestingWork assigned to a verifier with appropriate status.
3. Report and exceptionResult filed; deficiency separated when needed.
4. Next due dateAccountable reminder created for the next cycle.

05

What happens after a failed test?

1. The result is recorded.A failed device is not shown as compliant.
2. Corrective work is scoped separately.Required plumbing work belongs to an authorized contractor.
3. Retesting follows correction.History retains the failure, correction and new result.

06

What records should be retained?

A test and inspection report is provided to the owner or occupant, and the owner retains evidence of inspections. The Norméo record associates the available report, device, history, deficiencies and next due date with the same property.

07

What does testing cost?

Pricing depends on device count, accessibility and scope. Norméo currently publishes validation pricing starting at $199 for a minimum one-device visit, with lower per-device pricing for multiple devices. Scope and price are confirmed in writing before scheduling.