Auto Fill Line - is this acceptable?

[LaurenR]

Our inground pool has an auto fill that was never completed by the prior owner. Basically the line went to outside our cage and needed to be connected to the water main line. I had Pinch A Penny complete the job today. We wanted it done so the auto fill can remain on if we were to shut the water main off. I was under the impression in talking to them prior that this shut off valve would be by the water main. However it is not. They left it near the cage and the shut off valve is sitting on the ground in the dirt. I spoke to the Project Manager and he told me I could put a fake rock over it if I was concerned on it getting damaged. He explained that it had to be done this way due to them using pvc pipe. They said they couldn’t do anything to the copper pipe. I am wondering if this is because they are not licensed plumbers?

I have concerns as the landscapers come ripping between the houses on the ride on mowers and in general this shut off valve on the ground just seems like it can easily be damaged. It could cause a big issue if it became broken.

Blue valve they place. Water main is near the front of the house.

 

[JamesW]

It has to be done by a licensed plumber with a backflow preventer.

In my opinion, it is not acceptable.

 

[JamesW]

https://www.bsu.us/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/2015-Backflow-CrossConnectionControl-manual.pdf

 

[LaurenR]

They told me they put a back flow preventor. I will confirm that with the Project Manager tomorrow. It just seems crazy to me to have this thing sitting on the dirt. I am also assuming they aren’t licensed plumbers btw. I will also confirm that. I just know what I was told prior to install about placement.

The PM told me this morning before they came:

The autofill is going to attach below the water main so you won't have to worry about turning off the water to the home and not having your pool being filled. This is the easiest way for you as a homeowner to have peace of mind when you go out of town.

 

[JamesW]

I am not sure that you can bypass the meter like that.

Where is the backflow preventer?

If you do not see it, it is probably not correct.

I would have a licensed plumber review and advise.

 

[JamesW]

Bonita Springs Utilities (BSU) requires a backflow preventer to be installed on water lines, and BSU personnel must be present when it's connected.

BSU also has a backflow prevention cross connection control program that includes the following requirements:
Testing
A certified backflow tester must test and certify the backflow prevention assembly after installation and at least once a year.
Approved assemblies
Only approved assemblies can be installed.
No unprotected bypasses
BSU will not allow a bypass around a backflow prevention device that needs to be tested, repaired, or replaced.
Shutting off water service
Customers with a backflow preventer larger than 2 inches must coordinate with a BSU-approved certified tester to shut off water service during testing.
In Florida, the Building Code has required residential irrigation systems to have a backflow preventer since 1990. Backflow preventers are recommended to protect your home and keep your water safe by preventing incoming water and wastewater from cross-connecting.

 

[JamesW]

Most likely, the installation requires a Plumbing Permit issued to a Licensed Plumber and an inspection by the city.

You can contact the city building department and request copies of all Permits and Inspections issued to your property to verify any permitted work.

 

[LaurenR]

Oh wow. I will calling them first thing in the am to sort this all out and get it fixed correctly. They assured me they do this. I will find a licensed plumber.

I appreciate your help!