What Is Low-Flow Compliance?
In unincorporated DeKalb County, homes built before January 1, 1993 need a signed Certificate of Compliance when they are sold. DeKalb County Department of Watershed Management asks for it before water service can be set up in the new owner's name. Homes built in 1993 or later are exempt, and it does not apply to building permits, renovations, or new construction.
We check every toilet, showerhead, and faucet against the county limits. Any fixture over the limit is listed with its location so it can be replaced.
When every fixture meets the limits, we sign the Certificate of Compliance. Foresight Home Inspections is a private company, not part of DeKalb County; the county allows certified home inspectors to sign this certificate. For official forms, contact DeKalb County Department of Watershed Management.
DeKalb County Fixture Requirements
- 01ToiletsMust be 1.6 GPF or less✓
- 02ShowerheadsMust be 2.5 GPM or less✓
- 03Bathroom FaucetsMust be 2.0 GPM or less✓
- 04Kitchen FaucetsMust be 2.2 GPM or less✓
What We Inspect
Every fixture in the home is systematically tested and documented against DeKalb County's low-flow requirements.
Toilet Flow Rate Verification
Every toilet is checked against the 1.6 gallons-per-flush (GPF) limit.
Showerhead GPM Testing
All showerheads are checked against the 2.5 gallons-per-minute (GPM) limit.
Faucet Aerator Check
Bathroom faucets are checked against 2.0 GPM and kitchen faucets against 2.2 GPM.
Signed Certificate of Compliance
When every fixture meets the limits, we sign the county Certificate of Compliance so the new owner can set up water service.
DeKalb County Low-Flow Compliance Pricing
Flat rate for standalone inspection or when combined with a home inspection
Includes a check of every fixture, a short written report, and a signed Certificate of Compliance for pre-1993 homes being sold in unincorporated DeKalb County.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about DeKalb County low-flow compliance inspections.
Who needs a DeKalb County low-flow compliance certificate?
Homes in unincorporated DeKalb County that were built before January 1, 1993 need a signed Certificate of Compliance when they are sold. DeKalb County Department of Watershed Management asks for it before water service can be set up in the new owner's name. It is tied to the sale of an older home, not to building permits, renovations, or new construction. If your property is inside a city, confirm with DeKalb Watershed Management whether it applies to your address.
Which homes are exempt?
Homes built on or after January 1, 1993 do not need the certificate. Other common exemptions include foreclosure sales, transfers between spouses or between parents and children, and properties that will be fully demolished after the sale. Exempt properties typically file the county's exemption form instead. If you already have a certificate for this sale, you do not need another one.
What happens if a fixture does not meet the limit?
We list each fixture that is over the limit, with its location, so it can be replaced. Once the replacements are in, we confirm them and sign the certificate.
Can I get the compliance inspection as a standalone service?
Yes. The fixture check and signed Certificate of Compliance cost a flat $100, either on their own or added to a home inspection. We send the signed certificate to you, and to your closing attorney if you like, within 24 hours.
Is Foresight part of DeKalb County?
No. Foresight Home Inspections is a private, independently owned company. The county allows a licensed plumber, a certified home inspector, or a DeKalb County Watershed inspector to sign the certificate, and we are certified home inspectors.
Ready to Get Your Compliance Certificate?
Selling or buying a pre-1993 home in unincorporated DeKalb County? Get the certificate handled during due diligence so water service setup is simple after closing.