Backflow Testing in Dunwoody, GA

Dunwoody is on DeKalb County water, and DeKalb requires a tested backflow assembly on irrigation systems, including homes with a separate irrigation tap. The test is annual, and the certified report goes to DeKalb. Call the number on this page to be connected with a local plumber in Dunwoody.

Dunwoody and DeKalb's backflow rules

The City of Dunwoody lists DeKalb County Watershed Management as its water provider and doesn't run a system of its own. DeKalb's program puts a backflow assembly on every commercial property and on irrigation systems, including residential lots with their own irrigation tap. Dunwoody is one of the older cities in north DeKalb, with a median build year of 1984 and about 44% of homes built before 1980, so many sprinkler systems around Dunwoody Village and Georgetown were added after the house was finished. DeKalb owns the line from the main through the meter; the assembly and the pipe past it are the homeowner's, so the yearly test is a household cost.

What to do now

Confirm you have an irrigation tap. A second meter or a dedicated sprinkler line is the usual sign.
Find the assembly. It sits on the customer side of the meter. Note its make, size and serial number.
Pick a qualified tester. DeKalb accepts testers who hold a state license or are accredited through programs such as GAWP's GBPAT list, ASSE, ABPA or UF TREEO; it doesn't keep its own list.
Make sure the report reaches DeKalb. The certified inspection report goes to DWM. Questions: DeKalbBackflow@dekalbcountyga.gov or 404-687-4075.
Fix failures promptly. A failed device needs repair and a passing retest.
Get a permit for changes. Dunwoody issues single-trade plumbing permits over the counter, online or by mail, and work can't start until the permit is issued.

Call now to be connected with a local plumber in Dunwoody.

(404) 637-2993

Symptoms and likely causes

Symptom	Likely cause
Steady drip from the device	Worn check seat, spring or O-ring
Relief valve discharging on an RP unit	First check not sealing, or a pressure surge
Bulged bonnet or split casting	Freeze damage
Sprinkler zones suddenly weak	Shutoff not fully reopened after testing
Water pooling in the meter box	Leak at a union or fitting near the assembly

Cost factors

Most visits are short, but the final bill depends on what the tester finds and how much work the device needs.

Test only versus a rebuild of checks and seals followed by a retest
Assembly type and size, since reduced pressure units take longer than double checks
Full replacement after freeze damage splits the body
How hard the device is to reach in a meter pit or behind shrubs
A single-trade permit and inspection for new or relocated work
A second irrigation meter or more than one assembly on the lot

Backflow Testing questions in Dunwoody

How often does a backflow assembly need testing here?

Every year. DeKalb requires annual testing of irrigation backflow assemblies, with the certified report submitted to the county.

How do test results get to the water utility?

The tester sends a certified inspection report to DeKalb Watershed Management. For questions, email DeKalbBackflow@dekalbcountyga.gov or call 404-687-4075.

How do I keep an outdoor backflow assembly from freezing?

Shut the irrigation supply, drain the assembly as the maker directs and cover it with an insulated jacket before a hard freeze. Reopen slowly in spring and check for leaks.

Do I need a permit to install or move a backflow assembly?

For a new or relocated assembly, yes. Dunwoody's single-trade permits cover plumbing jobs, and work can't begin until the permit is issued.