Municipal guide · New Westminster
Backflow testing in New Westminster
New Westminster splits its process cleanly: existing assemblies file online through BSI, new assemblies go to the City before an inspection is scheduled. Knowing which path a device is on prevents a filed report from landing in the wrong place.
Two submission paths, decided by the device
An existing or replacement assembly files online through BSI. A newly installed assembly requires a copy of the test report sent to the City before a backflow device inspection is scheduled. Sending a new-installation report to BSI, or filing an existing annual test with the City instead of BSI, is the most common New Westminster filing error and it costs a full cycle to unwind.
Annual testing under CSA B64.10
The City requires assemblies to be tested after installation and annually by a certified tester in accordance with CSA B64.10. That standard governs the field procedure for each assembly type and what constitutes a pass. Confirm that any provider's tester certification and gauge calibration are current before the visit, since both appear on the report.
The BSI filing fee is a real line item
A fee applies to file a City of New Westminster test report through BSI, per report. On a single-device residential property it is minor. Across a portfolio with several assemblies per building it is a predictable annual cost that belongs in the budget rather than arriving as a surprise on the invoice. Ask whether your provider includes it in the quote.
Queensborough and the industrial river frontage
Queensborough combines residential development with industrial and river-adjacent commercial property. Process connections, wash-down lines, irrigation and fire protection can all appear at one address with different hazard classifications. The assembly that protects each connection has to suit that hazard, and a change of tenant or process is a reason to re-examine the device rather than repeat last year's test.
Sapperton, Downtown and heritage building access
New Westminster's older Downtown and Sapperton building stock places assemblies in basements, crawl spaces and retrofitted mechanical rooms where access is tight and shutoffs are not always reliable. Flagging a difficult location when booking produces a realistic quote; discovering it on arrival produces a partial visit and a return trip.
Replacement devices keep the record continuous
When an assembly is replaced, the report filed should connect the old device to the new one so the property's history stays continuous. A broken chain of serial numbers is what produces a City follow-up on a device the owner believes was already handled. Keep the notice, both device records, the report and the BSI confirmation together.
Local coverage
New Westminster neighbourhoods we plan around
- 01Downtown
- 02Queensborough
- 03Sapperton
- 04Uptown
- 05West End
- 06Connaught Heights
- 07Quayside
- 08Brow of the Hill
Transparent quoting
What shapes the price in New Westminster
Useful pricing begins with the actual device and reporting path, not a headline rate that excludes the important parts.
| Quote factor | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Assembly count + type | Each RPBA, DCVA, PVB, RPDA or DCDA has its own test and record. |
| Access + shutdown | Locked rooms, alarms, tenants, pits and process interruption require coordination. |
| Municipal reporting | Portals, forms, permits and report fees differ by address. |
| Repair or replacement | Additional work is quoted after the initial result, not assumed into a routine test. |
Backflow testing questions in New Westminster
How are New Westminster test reports submitted?
Existing and replacement assemblies are filed online through BSI, which has managed City of New Westminster test reports since 1 May 2022. Online submission is mandatory for existing assemblies.
What about a newly installed assembly?
For new assemblies, a copy of the test report must be submitted to the City's backflow email before a backflow device inspection is scheduled.
How often must an assembly be tested?
After installation and annually thereafter, by a certified tester in accordance with CSA B64.10.
Is there a fee to file with BSI?
Yes, a fee applies per report filed with BSI. Confirm the current amount and whether your provider includes it in the quoted price.
Who can perform the test?
A certified backflow assembly tester using calibrated equipment. The tester's certification and equipment calibration details appear on the report.
Have a New Westminster notice?
Send the details once.
Share the address, notice and assembly count for a clear quote.