NYC DEP Backflow Prevention Device
Inspector Certification Exam Practice
Questions And Correct Answers
(Verified Answers) Plus Rationale 2026
Q&A| Instant Download Pdf
1. Which of the following best describes the primary function of a
backflow prevention device in a potable water system?
A. To increase water pressure in low-rise buildings
B. To prevent contaminated water from reversing flow into the public
drinking water supply
C. To stop reverse flow of non-potable or contaminated water into potable
water mains
D. To filter sediments and improve taste in domestic water lines
Rationale: Backflow prevention devices are designed to protect public
water systems by preventing reverse flow conditions that could allow
contaminants such as chemicals, sewage, or industrial fluids to enter the
clean water supply.
2. Which legal framework primarily governs the requirement for
backflow prevention devices in New York City?
A. Federal Plumbing Code (FPC)
B. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Standards
,C. New York State Sanitary Code and NYC Rules and Administrative Code
D. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Hazardous Water Guidelines
Rationale: Backflow requirements in NYC are enforced through the New
York State Sanitary Code and local NYC Department of Environmental
Protection regulations to protect public water safety.
3. Which property type is MOST likely to require a backflow prevention
device installation?
A. Single-family home without water treatment systems
B. Residential apartment with no shared water lines
C. Medical laboratory using chemical agents and water systems
D. Vacant residential lot without plumbing connections
Rationale: Facilities such as medical laboratories present contamination
risks due to chemical use and are explicitly identified as requiring backflow
prevention measures.
4. What is the primary responsibility of a Professional Engineer (PE) or
Registered Architect (RA) in the backflow prevention process?
A. Physically install the device
B. Perform annual testing of the device
C. Design and submit approved installation plans to the DEP
D. Maintain the device after installation
Rationale: PE or RA professionals are responsible for preparing and
submitting plans for DEP approval, not performing installation or testing
duties.
5. Who is legally permitted to install a backflow prevention device in
NYC?
A. Property owner
B. Certified backflow tester
, C. Licensed Master Plumber (LMP)
D. Building superintendent
Rationale: Installation must be performed by a Licensed Master Plumber as
required under NYC DEP regulations and plumbing standards.
6. What is the purpose of initial testing immediately after installation of a
backflow prevention device?
A. To reduce insurance costs for the property owner
B. To verify water meter accuracy
C. To confirm correct installation and proper operation of the device
D. To determine water usage levels for billing purposes
Rationale: Initial testing ensures that the device was properly installed and
functions correctly before the system is placed into service.
7. How often must backflow prevention devices be tested after initial
installation?
A. Every 3 months
B. Every 6 months
C. Every 12 months
D. Every 5 years
Rationale: NYC regulations require annual testing (every 12 months) to
ensure continued proper function and water safety compliance.
8. What is the consequence of failing to comply with required annual
backflow testing?
A. Reduction in water pressure
B. Automatic exemption approval
C. Possible fines or water service disconnection
D. Reduced property tax valuation
Inspector Certification Exam Practice
Questions And Correct Answers
(Verified Answers) Plus Rationale 2026
Q&A| Instant Download Pdf
1. Which of the following best describes the primary function of a
backflow prevention device in a potable water system?
A. To increase water pressure in low-rise buildings
B. To prevent contaminated water from reversing flow into the public
drinking water supply
C. To stop reverse flow of non-potable or contaminated water into potable
water mains
D. To filter sediments and improve taste in domestic water lines
Rationale: Backflow prevention devices are designed to protect public
water systems by preventing reverse flow conditions that could allow
contaminants such as chemicals, sewage, or industrial fluids to enter the
clean water supply.
2. Which legal framework primarily governs the requirement for
backflow prevention devices in New York City?
A. Federal Plumbing Code (FPC)
B. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Standards
,C. New York State Sanitary Code and NYC Rules and Administrative Code
D. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Hazardous Water Guidelines
Rationale: Backflow requirements in NYC are enforced through the New
York State Sanitary Code and local NYC Department of Environmental
Protection regulations to protect public water safety.
3. Which property type is MOST likely to require a backflow prevention
device installation?
A. Single-family home without water treatment systems
B. Residential apartment with no shared water lines
C. Medical laboratory using chemical agents and water systems
D. Vacant residential lot without plumbing connections
Rationale: Facilities such as medical laboratories present contamination
risks due to chemical use and are explicitly identified as requiring backflow
prevention measures.
4. What is the primary responsibility of a Professional Engineer (PE) or
Registered Architect (RA) in the backflow prevention process?
A. Physically install the device
B. Perform annual testing of the device
C. Design and submit approved installation plans to the DEP
D. Maintain the device after installation
Rationale: PE or RA professionals are responsible for preparing and
submitting plans for DEP approval, not performing installation or testing
duties.
5. Who is legally permitted to install a backflow prevention device in
NYC?
A. Property owner
B. Certified backflow tester
, C. Licensed Master Plumber (LMP)
D. Building superintendent
Rationale: Installation must be performed by a Licensed Master Plumber as
required under NYC DEP regulations and plumbing standards.
6. What is the purpose of initial testing immediately after installation of a
backflow prevention device?
A. To reduce insurance costs for the property owner
B. To verify water meter accuracy
C. To confirm correct installation and proper operation of the device
D. To determine water usage levels for billing purposes
Rationale: Initial testing ensures that the device was properly installed and
functions correctly before the system is placed into service.
7. How often must backflow prevention devices be tested after initial
installation?
A. Every 3 months
B. Every 6 months
C. Every 12 months
D. Every 5 years
Rationale: NYC regulations require annual testing (every 12 months) to
ensure continued proper function and water safety compliance.
8. What is the consequence of failing to comply with required annual
backflow testing?
A. Reduction in water pressure
B. Automatic exemption approval
C. Possible fines or water service disconnection
D. Reduced property tax valuation
