Backflow Exemption Application NYC

Determine Whether Your Property May Qualify for an Exemption

Receiving a DEP backflow notice does not always mean that a new device must automatically be installed.

Some properties may qualify for an exemption when their use, water-service arrangement, equipment, and cross-connection conditions do not create the hazard that triggered the requirement.

BDS.nyc reviews the building and available records to determine whether an exemption application may be appropriate.

What Is a Backflow Exemption Application?

A backflow exemption application is a formal request asking DEP to determine that a property does not require the device identified in a notice or compliance request.

The application generally requires documentation of the property’s use, plumbing system, equipment, water services, and absence of regulated cross-connections.

DEP makes the final determination based on the submitted information and applicable requirements.

What Is Included?

Our service may include:

• Review of the DEP notice
• Review of the property’s current use
• Site inspection of the water service and equipment
• Review of boilers, chillers, roof tanks, kitchens, and other risk factors
• Review of prior DEP records or approvals
• Identification of possible cross-connections
• Preparation of supporting drawings or documentation
• Professional certification where required
• DEP exemption submission coordination
• Response to agency questions or comments
• Coordination of supplemental documents
• Recommendations if the exemption is not available

Why Is This Service Important?

Installing a backflow device without first reviewing exemption eligibility may create unnecessary cost, maintenance, testing, drainage, and space requirements.

At the same time, submitting an unsupported exemption application can waste months and delay compliance. The property should be evaluated based on actual conditions rather than optimism, which remains an unrecognized filing category.

Our Service Is Designed For:

• Property owners who received a DEP notice
• Small commercial properties
• Mixed-use buildings
• Residential building owners
• Property managers
• Commercial tenants
• Owners of properties with changed or discontinued uses
• Buildings where risk equipment has been removed
• Architects and engineers
• Licensed Master Plumbers
• Buyers performing compliance review
• Clients uncertain whether a device is required

Why Choose BDS.nyc?

BDS.nyc evaluates exemption eligibility before recommending a full device filing.

We review the property use, equipment, water service, prior records, and field conditions to develop a documented position. When an exemption is not supportable, we identify the likely compliance path so the owner can make an informed decision without losing additional time.