California regulations require water purveyors to assess properties for potential cross connection hazards. Casitas uses this survey to understand how water is used on your property and identify possible cross-connection or backflow hazards. This helps protect the public drinking water system and comply with California’s Cross-Connection Control Policy Handbook.

The survey is required for all Casitas customers as part of our Cross-Connection Control Program. You may have been prompted to complete it because of a new or expanded water service, a change in account holder, or restoration of a locked-off service. Casitas may also request the survey as part of its ongoing review of existing properties

A cross-connection is an actual or potential connection between drinking water plumbing and another water source or substance that could contaminate the water supply.

Backflow occurs when water flows in the opposite direction from normal. Changes in water pressure can allow non-drinking water or contaminants to flow backward through a cross-connection and into the public water system.

No. The survey is about water safety and plumbing conditions—not how much water you use.

Yes. The survey is required even if you have no known cross-connections or special water uses. In many cases, no further action will be needed after Casitas reviews the responses.

The survey may ask about irrigation, pools or spas, fire sprinklers, wells or other water sources, water storage tanks, booster pumps, water treatment equipment, chemical injection, and agricultural, commercial, or industrial water uses.

Usually not. Please answer the questions to the best of your knowledge. If you are unsure about a question, you may contact Casitas for assistance.

No. A backflow prevention assembly is required only when Casitas determines that one is needed based on the property’s water uses and potential hazards.

Please complete the survey and provide any information you have about the assembly. Casitas will review whether the existing protection is appropriate for the property’s current water uses.

A “yes” answer does not necessarily mean that new equipment or corrective action will be required. A “yes” response may prompt additional questions about that specific water use and Casitas may contact you for more information or schedule an inspection to better understand the condition.

Not necessarily. Casitas will review the survey first. An inspection or additional hazard assessment may be needed if the information is incomplete or a potential hazard is identified.

Complete the survey using the information available to you. You may need to coordinate with the property owner or manager if you are unsure about the plumbing or water uses on the property.

A copy of your submitted survey will be automatically emailed to the address you provide. A Casitas Cross-Connection Control Specialist will review your responses and may contact you for clarification or to schedule an onsite hazard assessment. Once the review is complete, Casitas will email you the completed survey including hazard determination, and required corrective actions, if any.

Please notify Casitas if there is a significant change in plumbing, water use, equipment, or onsite conditions that could affect backflow protection.

• If the determination was based on your survey, contact Casitas promptly to request an onsite hazard assessment. The assessment may be performed by District staff at no cost or by a certified Cross-Connection Control Specialist hired by the customer. Before hiring a specialist, their credentials must be submitted to and accepted by Casitas. The specialist’s assessment must then be submitted to Casitas for review and a final determination.
• If the determination was based on an onsite hazard assessment, you may submit a written appeal within 10 working days of the date of Casitas’ notice. The appeal must explain the basis for your disagreement and include any supporting documentation.

Contact Casitas’ Cross-Connection Control Program at backflow@casitaswater.com or (805) 649-2251, extension 122.