New York State’s health code requires backflow preventers in most commercial properties and larger residential properties as a protection for municipal water systems. Contractors need to be alert because not all towns enforce this New York State Health law. During the past couple of years, people have received letters informing them that they will be required to install back flow preventers. In a medium-sized apartment complex, the cost can range from $20,000 to $80,000 and there’s pushback from sellers who don’t want to provide or guarantee back flow prevention, so if you are considering the purchase of a specific property, it would be wise to check with your local zoning and building office to verify whether it’s going to require a back flow certificate. If so, you will want a written guarantee from the seller stating that they will put in a back flow preventer at some point in the future.

As a Rochester Landlord Tenant Attorney, I had one client who had a medium-sized apartment complex in Cheektowaga – about 60 units – and, in response to letters from the Cheektowaga town building inspector, she got estimates ranging from $20,000 to $80,000 to put in back flow preventers. Yes, it’s a New York State law, but it’s not being formally enforced all across the state.

Do you have problems with your commercial properties and the need for backflow preventers? Contact experienced Rochester Landlord Tenant Attorney Robert Friedman.

This educational legal blog was brought to you by Robert Friedman, an experienced Rochester Landlord Tenant Attorney.