4. Typical Certification Flow

4.1 Engagement

4.1.1 Initial Retention

Applicant retains an FWS-approved Inspection Company.

4.1.2 Requirements Review

Inspection Company and Applicant review FWS Program requirements and project needs.

4.2 Evaluation

4.2.1 Document Submission

Applicant submits necessary documents to their Inspection Company.

4.2.2 Document Review

Inspection Company reviews all submittals against FWS criteria and notifies Applicant of missing documentation or design nonconformances.

4.2.3 On-Site Inspection

4.2.3.1 Scheduling

Inspection Company schedules and conducts one or more site visits to verify installed work.

4.2.3.2 Landscape Features

  • Areas verification
  • Shading assessment
  • Debris removal confirmation

4.2.3.3 Irrigation System

  • Coverage verification
  • Leak detection
  • Check valves inspection
  • Controller documentation review

4.2.3.4 Indoor Fixtures

Photographic verification of WaterSense® and ENERGY STAR® fixtures and appliances and other FWS requirements for components.

4.2.3.5 Deficiency Handling

If deficiencies or nonconformances are found, the Inspection Company will document corrective actions, and the Applicant must fix them and request a reinspection.

4.3 Review

4.3.1 Compliance Submission

When full compliance is determined by the Inspection Company, the Inspection Company submits documents and a formal validation attestation in the Portal.

4.3.2 Administrator Review and Decision

4.3.2.1 Review Process

The FWS Program Administrator or other SJRWMD approved TIC review the Inspection Company’s attestation and documentation.

4.3.2.2 Certificate Issuance Authorization

Once review is found complete, authorized agents issue the FWS Certificate of Conformity via the Portal on SJRWMD’s behalf.

4.4 Certificate of Conformity Issuance

4.4.1 Applicant Notification

Applicant receives FWS Certificate of Conformity via link in email from the Portal.

4.4.2 Project Registration

Project is added to the completed FWS projects in the Portal.

4.5 Surveillance and Audits

4.5.1 Quality Assurance

Quality Assurance Audits of Inspection Companies and projects occur at SJRWMD’s discretion.