Don’t get caught out

What’s changing?

To provide greater assurance RPZ valves are working correctly, from the 1^st of July 2026 the  equipment used to test them must meet a minimum standard.

What happens if test equipment doesn’t meet this requirement?

After the 30th of June test certificates will be invalid meaning any RPZ valves tested using this equipment will need to be retested. If this is not done enforcement action can be taken.

If you are responsible for RPZ valves, what should you do?

1. If your RPZ valve is due to be tested soon confirm your RPZ tester is using the correct type of equipment.

   To avoid your certification being rejected, and incurring the cost of an additional test,  you should always check the RPZ tester you are using is recognised by your water undertaker. The easiest way to do this is to visit the WaterSafe Register website. From the 1^st of July it will only list RPZ testers with compliant test equipment, but be aware until then it identifies those who don’t.

   
   

2. Make sure you still require an RPZ valve

   Only your local water undertaker can confirm this. They can also discuss other options. Never remove RPZ valves without talking to your local water undertaker first, contact details can be found here.

If you are an RPZ tester, what do you need to do?  

1. If you plan to continue testing, make sure your equipment satisfies the new minimum requirements

   If you haven’t already don’t forget to notify your scheme what test kit you are using.

   
   

2. If not already join either WIAPS or SNIPEF

   As an approved RPZ tester you will be listed on the WaterSafe Register, which is regularly used by those looking for plumbing contractors.