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Backflow Testing and Prevention in Central Maryland
Certified Testing. Compliant Results. One Phone Call.
If your water authority sent a backflow testing notice, your annual test is due, or you need a new backflow prevention device installed, Bailey Bros. handles the entire process. We test, install, repair, and certify backflow prevention assemblies for commercial properties, fire sprinkler systems, and irrigation systems across Harford County, Baltimore County, Anne Arundel County, Howard County, and Baltimore City.
What We Fix, Install, and Build
From emergency calls to full installations, here’s how we help.
Emergency
Plumbing
Burst pipes, gas leaks, sewer backups, and flooding — 24/7, including nights, weekends, and holidays. We dispatch fast and fix it right.
Drain & Sewer
Clogged drains, sewer line repair and replacement, camera inspections, hydro jetting, and underslab plumbing. We clear the blockage and fix the cause.
Water Heaters
Tank and tankless water heater repair, replacement, and new installation. We work with all major brands and offer same-day service on most repairs.
Water Quality
Whole-house water filtration, water softeners, well pump repair and replacement, and water testing. Clean water for your family starts here.
Commercial
Plumbing
Grease trap cleaning and installation, backflow prevention and annual testing, hydro jetting, and scheduled maintenance plans for restaurants, offices, and property managers.
Water & Mold Remediation
Full-service water damage restoration and mold remediation — demo, structural dryout, air scrubbing, and rebuild. One company from leak to finish.
Emergency
Plumbing
Burst pipes, gas leaks, sewer backups, and flooding — 24/7, including nights, weekends, and holidays. We dispatch fast and fix it right.
Drain & Sewer
Clogged drains, sewer line repair and replacement, camera inspections, hydro jetting, and underslab plumbing. We clear the blockage and fix the cause.
Water Heaters
Tank and tankless water heater repair, replacement, and new installation. We work with all major brands and offer same-day service on most repairs.
Water Quality
Whole-house water filtration, water softeners, well pump repair and replacement, and water testing. Clean water for your family starts here.
Commercial
Plumbing
Grease trap cleaning and installation, backflow prevention and annual testing, hydro jetting, and scheduled maintenance plans for restaurants, offices, and property managers.
Water & Mold Remediation
Full-service water damage restoration and mold remediation — demo, structural dryout, air scrubbing, and rebuild. One company from leak to finish.
Not sure which service you need?
- hOW CAN WE HELP?
Why Backflow Testing Is Required
Backflow occurs when water reverses direction in a plumbing system and pulls contaminants into the clean water supply. The CDC documented 57 waterborne disease outbreaks from cross-connections between 1981 and 1998, resulting in nearly 10,000 cases of illness. Contaminants ranged from pesticides and antifreeze to sewage and industrial chemicals. Backflow prevention devices are the barrier between those contaminants and your drinking water.
Maryland requires annual backflow testing for commercial properties, fire sprinkler systems, and irrigation systems connected to the public water supply. Failure to test on schedule can result in fines, water service interruption, or citations from your local water authority. Bailey Bros. is backflow certified and handles testing, installation, repair, and certification paperwork across all five counties in our service area.
We serve commercial properties, property management companies, restaurants, medical facilities, and any business with a backflow prevention requirement. Financing is available through Wisetack for backflow device installation and replacement.
Why Choose Bailey Bros.
24/7 Emergency Response
We pick up. We dispatch. Day, night, weekends, holidays. No exceptions.
3,000+ Projects Completed
Two decades of work in Harford County homes and businesses. We've seen it and fixed it.
Master-Level Credentials
MD Master Plumber · Master Gas Fitter · Backflow Certified. This isn't a crew — it's a qualified team.
1-Year Labor Warranty
Every job we do is backed by a full one-year labor warranty. If something isn't right, we make it right.
When You Need Backflow Service
If your local water authority sent a testing notice or compliance letter, your annual backflow test is due. Most Maryland jurisdictions require the test to be completed and reported within 30 to 60 days of the notice. We schedule the test, perform it, and submit the paperwork directly to your water authority.
Maryland mandates annual backflow testing for all commercial properties with backflow prevention assemblies. If you know your test date is approaching, call ahead so we can schedule it before the deadline. Commercial maintenance plan customers get priority scheduling for annual tests.
A failed backflow test means the device is not preventing contamination as designed. We repair or replace the failed device on the same visit whenever possible and retest immediately. You receive a passing test report and updated certification without a second trip.
Fire sprinkler systems and irrigation systems connected to the public water supply require backflow prevention devices at the point of connection. We install the correct assembly type based on the hazard level and your jurisdiction's requirements, then test and certify it.
Discolored water, chemical tastes, or unusual odors can indicate a backflow event has already occurred. If you suspect contaminated water in your building, stop using the water and call us. We assess the situation, identify the cross-connection, and install or repair the prevention device.
Property management companies and HOAs with multiple backflow devices across multiple properties need a single contractor who tracks test dates, schedules service proactively, and submits all paperwork. A commercial maintenance plan lets us manage backflow compliance across your entire portfolio
Backflow Services We Provide
Annual Backflow Testing and Certification
We test all types of backflow prevention assemblies, including RPZ (reduced pressure zone) valves, double check valves, and pressure vacuum breakers. After testing, we provide the test report and submit certification documentation directly to your water authority. The entire process is handled in one visit.
Backflow Device Installation
We install new backflow prevention assemblies for commercial properties, fire sprinkler systems, irrigation systems, and any application where cross-connection control is required. We select the correct device type based on the hazard classification and your local code requirements, then test and certify it on the same visit.
Backflow Device Repair and Replacement
If your backflow preventer fails its annual test, we diagnose the failure, repair or replace the device, and retest it. Common failure points include worn check valve seats, fouled relief valves, and damaged diaphragms. Most repairs are completed on the same visit as the test.
Cross-Connection Surveys and Compliance
A cross-connection survey identifies every point in your plumbing system where contaminated water could potentially enter the clean supply. We survey commercial properties, identify unprotected connections, recommend the appropriate backflow prevention for each hazard, and bring the entire property into compliance.
Why Commercial Properties Choose Bailey Bros. for Backflow
BackflowCertified and Licensed
Our team is backflow certified, licensed, bonded, and insured under Maryland License #74826. We meet the testing and certification requirements for every water authority in Harford County, Baltimore County, Baltimore City, Anne Arundel County, and Howard County.
Test, Repair, and Certify in One Visit
If your device fails during testing, we carry common repair parts and replacement components. Most repairs are completed on the spot, followed by an immediate retest. You get a passing certification without scheduling a return trip.
We Handle the Paperwork
We track your test dates and schedule service before the deadline arrives. For property management companies and HOAs with multiple devices across multiple buildings, we coordinate all testing into a single service visit or a scheduled rotation.
Part of a Full Commercial Plumbing Team
Backflow is one piece of your building’s plumbing system. We also handle drain cleaning, hydro jetting, gas lines, water heaters, sewer repair, and water damage remediation as part of our full commercial plumbing services. One contractor for everything.
What Backflow Testing Includes
Here’s what happens when Bailey Bros. shows up to test your backflow prevention assembly:
Visual Inspection
We inspect the device for physical damage, corrosion, leaks, and proper installation. We check the shut-off valves, test cocks, and connections before running the test.
Functional Testing
Using calibrated test equipment, we verify that each check valve and the relief valve (on RPZ assemblies) are operating within the tolerances required by your water authority. We test at the pressures specified by the device manufacturer and local code.
Repair if Needed
If the device fails any portion of the test, we diagnose the failure point, repair or replace the affected component, and retest the assembly. Common repairs include check valve seat replacement, relief valve cleaning or replacement, and diaphragm replacement.
Documentation and Submission
We complete the official backflow test report, record all readings, and submit the certification to your water authority. You receive a copy of the report for your files. For properties with multiple devices, we provide a consolidated summary.
Hear It From Your Neighbors
Very Professional and gets the job done! Bailey Bros was recommended to me by a friend who is a general contractor. They came and were very transparent with everything that needed to be done. They were professional and courteous as they explained everything before and during the process. They had to dig a very deep trench to access my sewer line and they returned the following days to finish, re-seed and straw my yard. Thank you! I have peace-of-mind knowing the task was done right.
I was having problems with my toilet and was looking for a plumber. I called Bailey Bros. and spoke with Ray on the first call. He came to my home and fixed the issue. He was very professional and easy to deal with from the first conversation I had with him. He was great! I will only call Bailey Brothers for any plumbing issues I have in the future.
Had these guys install a hot water heater for me. I bought the heater and they were gracious enough to install it. They were friendly, responsive and the least expensive after a comprehensive search. Significantly less expensive. They were thorough and explained everything. Shawn (my tech) was charming. Someone you’d be happy to go out and have a drink with. They have a 5 star rating. They ran a little late, but for the savings and quality of work, it was well worth it. The basement was a little cleaner after their work than before they arrived. I highly recommend them.
Thank you Shawn and Mike! My water heater busted on a Saturday and they were able to install a new one within a few days! 🥰 you guys are awesome! It’s so much better than the old one from 1999! 🫠
Backflow Testing Questions
How often is backflow testing required in Maryland?
Maryland requires annual testing for all commercial backflow prevention assemblies, fire sprinkler backflow devices, and irrigation system backflow devices connected to the public water supply. Your local water authority sets the specific deadline and reporting requirements.
Who needs backflow testing?
Any commercial property with a backflow prevention assembly is required to have it tested annually. This includes restaurants, office buildings, medical facilities, apartment complexes, properties with fire sprinkler systems, and properties with irrigation systems connected to the public water supply.
What happens if I don't get my backflow test done?
Depending on your jurisdiction, penalties for non-compliance can include fines, mandatory water service disconnection until the test is completed, or citations from your local water authority. We schedule tests proactively so you never miss a deadline.
What does backflow testing cost?
The cost depends on the number of devices, the type of assembly, and whether repairs are needed. We provide upfront pricing before any work begins. For properties with multiple devices, we offer volume pricing.
What is an RPZ valve?
We repair or replace the failed component on the spot and retest the device immediately. Most repairs are completed during the same visit. You receive a passing test report without scheduling a second appointment.
Do you submit the test report to my water authority?
Yes. After testing, we complete the official backflow test report and submit the certification documentation directly to your local water authority. You receive a copy for your records.
Do you offer backflow testing as part of a maintenance plan?
Yes. We hold Maryland License #74826. Our team includes a licensed Master Plumber and a Master Gas Fitter. We are fully insured, backflow certified, and ABC Plumbing members. Every remodel project is done to Maryland plumbing code.
What areas do you serve for remodel work?
Yes. Our commercial maintenance plans include annual backflow testing along with scheduled drain cleaning, grease trap service, and system inspections. Maintenance plan customers get priority scheduling.
Where We Work
Bailey Bros. Plumbing & Drain Services is based at 2714 Pulaski Hwy #4, Edgewood, MD 21040. We’re a service-area business, meaning we come to you. Our Edgewood location puts us in the center of the I-95 corridor, giving us fast access to communities across five counties.
We serve Harford County, Baltimore County, Baltimore City, Anne Arundel County, and Howard County, from Bel Air and Aberdeen to Towson, Baltimore, Annapolis, Columbia, and communities throughout the I-95 corridor. See all service areas
- Harford County
- Baltimore County
- ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY
- Baltimore City
- HOWARD COUNTY
- BONUS I-95 CORRIDOR
