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Yes, Charlotte Water has sent letters saying backflow water prevention devices need to be tested

The backflow prevention device is required to be tested once a year.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Someone on social media posted a letter they received from the city of Charlotte about their backflow water device. The letter said they are due for an annual inspection that they need to schedule themselves. 

They wanted to know if this was legit. 

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One Reddit user asked if anyone ever received one of these letters from Charlotte Water. 

They said they've lived in a house with an irrigation and backflow preventer for eight years and they were certain it's never been tested. 

They wanted to know if this was new -- and if it was legitimate. 

Credit: Reddit

THE QUESTION

Did Charlotte Water send letters about backflow testing?

THE SOURCES

THE ANSWER

Yes, the city of Charlotte said this letter is from Charlotte Water. It's about Charlotte Water's backflow inspection program. 

This is true.

WHAT WE FOUND

According to Charlotte Water, a backflow prevention device prevents hazardous substances from being drawn into the drinking water system. 

The backflow prevention device is required to be tested once a year. According to Charlotte Water, people will receive these letters when devices need to be tested soon. 

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However, Charlotte Water does not test these. Instead, they give an approved list of testers each person would need to reach out to. Homeowners are also responsible for covering the price of the testing. 

The city of Charlotte tells WCNC Charlotte this has been a requirement for decades, however in 2023, Charlotte Water enhanced compliance efforts. That's why you may now receive a letter. 

Contact Meghan Bragg at mbragg@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.

VERIFY is dedicated to helping the public distinguish between true and false information. The VERIFY team, with help from questions submitted by the audience, tracks the spread of stories or claims that need clarification or correction. Have something you want VERIFIED? Text us at 704-329-3600 or visit VERIFY.

WCNC Charlotte's Verify series is all about trying to make a difference in the Carolinas by making sure the community has the correct information. WCNC Charlotte outlines concisely what we know and what we don't know. Sometimes the answer can be surprising. Watch previous stories where we verify social media claims in the YouTube playlist below and subscribe to get updated when new videos are uploaded. 

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