What to charge for testing backflow devices

[Mikegyver]

What should I be charging to test a backflow device? We don't have many PVBs around here, mainly RPs and DCs. I was thinking 100.00 per inch of diameter on RPs or DCs. Or is that too high? I realize this can vary depending on what state/region you are in. I need to test one at a dentist's office this week. The guy that used to do it was charging like 75.00 or 80.00.
Mike

[AI Inc]

$100 an inch sounds resonable.

[GrunderIrri]

most plumbers in my area(you have to be a licensed plumber)charge 85 - 115

[Mikegyver]

This place must have an RP (since its medical related) and I'm assuming its a 1" and I'm thinking she told me the guy that used to do it charged 75.00. I told her for this time I'd come pretty close to his price but next year it will be 100.00 a inch.

[koster_irrigation]

In small town pricing ive seen low ballers that are testers "by hobby" that test at 60 to 70 bucks.

Normal professional prices are 75 - 85 to 125 up to 2" beyond 2" is usually by the inch for fire lines etc.
you better have ALOT of insurance when testing firelines, ive thought 3 million in insuracnce and an umbrella would be a good start....

I usually try to get 85 to 95 per valve 2" or less. Thats if were doing the irrigation maintenace on the site. I'll also always try to round up and other valves that are associated with that site and test them as well to increase revenue. If i have to travel to test just one valve i charge accordingly

[Wet_Boots]

price by the inch? - no way, what with some 1/2-inch devices out there

[AI Inc]

I dont beleive ive ever seen a 1/2 in that I didnt rip off and replace.

[Wet_Boots]

Originally Posted by AI Inc

I dont beleive ive ever seen a 1/2 in that I didnt rip off and replace.

Why? They're out of the mainstream, but at $200 and up for the little RPZs, it doesn't hurt to possess repair capability.

[AI Inc]

Because selling a BF that I payed $56 for for $156 is one of the reasons I chose this industry.

[Wet_Boots]

Originally Posted by AI Inc

Because selling a BF that I payed $56 for for $156 is one of the reasons I chose this industry.

I don't take a lot of pride in lacking repair capabilities, especially for anything I installed myself.