Understanding Water Metering
Understanding Water Metering
A water meter is a device fitted to your property’s water supply that measures exactly how much water you use. Instead of paying a standard amount regardless of usage, your bill is calculated based on the number of cubic metres of water recorded by the meter. Most meters are installed outside your home, typically in the pavement or garden, but some may be fitted indoors.
Fixed Water Charges vs. Metered Billing
Traditionally, many UK households have paid for water through a fixed annual charge. This charge is usually based on your property’s "rateable value" – an old system that estimates your home’s rental value, not your actual water use. With a water meter, you pay for the water you actually use, plus a standing charge for maintenance and service.
If you want to learn more about the differences between these two billing methods, see our guide on paying for water without a meter.
Benefits of Switching to a Water Meter
Pay for What You Use: Metered billing means your charges reflect your actual water consumption. If you use less water, you may pay less.
Encourages Water Saving: With a meter, you’re more likely to notice the impact of shorter showers, fixing leaks, or using water-efficient appliances.
Fairness: Households with fewer occupants or lower water use often benefit from lower bills compared to the fixed charge system.
Potential Drawbacks to Consider
Higher Bills for Larger Households: If you have a large family or use a lot of water, your bills could rise after switching to a meter.
Unpredictable Costs: Unlike a fixed charge, metered bills can vary throughout the year, making budgeting less straightforward.
Change in Habits Required: You may need to be more mindful of your water usage to avoid unexpected charges.
Legal Protections and Guidance
Under UK law, most households have the right to request a free water meter installation from their water company. Water companies must comply unless it’s not practical or too expensive to fit a meter at your property. If a meter cannot be installed, you may be offered an "assessed charge" based on estimated usage.
Additionally, if you switch to a meter and later find your bills are higher, you may have the option to revert to your previous charging method within 12 months (this is known as the "switchback" period), unless you moved into the property after the meter was fitted.
Understanding how water metering works can help you make an informed decision about whether it’s right for your household. If you have more questions, explore our other sections on how to request a meter and what to expect during the installation process.
What is a Water Meter?
What is a Water Meter?
A water meter is a device installed by your water supplier that measures the exact amount of water you use in your home. Unlike a fixed water charge, which is based on your property’s size or rateable value, a water meter ensures you only pay for the water you actually consume.
How Does a Water Meter Work?
The meter is usually fitted to your main water supply pipe, either inside your home (often under the kitchen sink) or outside in a meter box. Every time you use water – whether it’s for drinking, washing, cooking, or flushing the toilet – the meter records how much flows through. The readings are taken regularly by your supplier, either remotely or by a technician, to calculate your bill.
Why Switch to a Water Meter?
The main purpose of a water meter is to encourage fair and efficient use of water. If you use less water, your bills may go down compared to a fixed charge. This can be especially beneficial for smaller households or people who are careful with their water use. On the other hand, larger households or homes with high water usage might see their bills increase.
How Are Bills Calculated with a Water Meter?
With a water meter, your bill is based on the number of cubic metres (1 cubic metre = 1,000 litres) of water you use. The supplier multiplies your usage by the current rate per cubic metre, then adds a standing charge (a fixed cost to cover maintenance and service). This system is regulated by Ofwat, the water industry regulator in England and Wales, and similar authorities in Scotland and Northern Ireland. The rules for water metering and billing are set out in the Water Industry Act 1991 and subsequent amendments.
Legal Protections
By law, most households in England and Wales have the right to request a water meter free of charge from their water company (Water Industry Act 1999, section 8). The installation process and billing must follow strict guidelines to ensure fairness and transparency. If you believe your meter is faulty or your bill seems incorrect, you have the right to challenge it and request a meter test.
Common Questions
Will a water meter save me money?
It depends on your water usage. If you’re careful with water, you’re likely to pay less than with a fixed charge.
Can I change back if I don’t like it?
In most cases, you have up to 12 months after installation to switch back to unmetered billing if you’re unhappy, unless you’re required by law to have a meter (for example, in areas facing water shortages).
Is it compulsory to have a water meter?
In some regions, especially where water is scarce, water companies can require certain households to switch to a meter. Otherwise, it’s usually your choice.
Understanding how a water meter works can help you make an informed decision about whether switching is right for you.
Fixed Charges vs Metered Billing
When it comes to paying for your water supply, you’ll usually have one of two options: a fixed charge or metered billing. Understanding the differences between these methods can help you decide which is best for your household.
How Fixed Water Charges Are Calculated
With a fixed water charge, you pay a set amount each year, regardless of how much water you actually use. This amount is typically based on the “rateable value” of your property – a value assigned by local councils before 1990. The rateable value reflects factors like your home’s size, location, and general condition at the time. Since rateable values are no longer updated, your bill is not linked to your current water usage.
You can find more details about how this system works by exploring our guide to paying for water without a meter.
How Metered Billing Works
Metered billing means you pay for exactly the amount of water your household uses. A water meter is installed at your property, and your supplier reads the meter to calculate your bill, usually every six months. This method is similar to how you pay for gas or electricity – your usage directly determines your costs.
Pros and Cons of Each Payment Method
Fixed Charges:
Pros:
Predictable bills, making budgeting easier.
No need to worry about unexpected increases due to higher usage.
Cons:
You may pay more than you actually use, especially if you live alone or use less water than average.
No financial incentive to reduce water consumption.
Metered Billing:
Pros:
You only pay for the water you use, which can lead to savings if your usage is low.
Encourages water conservation, as reducing usage lowers your bill.
Fairer for smaller households or those who are careful with water.
Cons:
Bills can vary and may be higher for larger households or if you increase your usage.
May require changes to your water habits to see savings.
Legal Protections and Regulations
Under the Water Industry Act 1999, most customers in England and Wales have the right to request a free water meter installation from their supplier. If a meter cannot be fitted for technical reasons, your supplier must offer an alternative assessed charge, which estimates your usage. Water companies are regulated by Ofwat, which ensures fair treatment and transparent billing practices.
Before deciding to switch, it’s worth comparing your current fixed charge with what you might pay on a meter. Remember, you often have the right to switch back to a fixed charge within the first 12 months if you find metered billing doesn’t suit you.
Understanding these differences can help you make an informed choice about your water bill and ensure you’re only paying for what you need.
How to Request a Water Meter Installation
If you’re thinking about switching to a water meter, the process is usually straightforward. Here’s what you need to know about requesting a water meter installation, what information you’ll need to provide, and your legal rights as a customer in the UK.
Steps to Request a Water Meter Installation
Contact Your Water Supplier
The first step is to get in touch with your water company. Most suppliers allow you to request a meter online, by phone, or by post. Check your latest water bill for details of your supplier and their contact information.Submit Your Request
When you contact your supplier, tell them you’d like to have a water meter installed at your property. There’s usually a simple form to fill out, either online or by post. Some companies may also take requests over the phone.Arrange a Survey
After you’ve made your request, your water company will typically arrange a free survey of your property. This is to check if a meter can be fitted and to decide on the best location for it.Installation
If it’s possible to fit a meter, your supplier will arrange a date for installation. In most cases, installation is free of charge and takes place within three months of your request.
Information You Need to Provide
When you request a meter, your supplier may ask for:
Your name and address
Your customer or account number (found on your water bill)
Details about your property (for example, whether it’s a house or flat)
Information about access to your property (such as a shared drive or private road)
The best way to contact you to arrange the survey and installation
Providing accurate information helps avoid delays and ensures the process runs smoothly.
Your Legal Rights and Eligibility
Under the Water Industry Act 1999, most households in England and Wales have the right to ask their water supplier for a free water meter installation. Water companies are legally required to fit a meter within three months, provided it’s practical and reasonably possible. If your property is not suitable for a meter – for example, in some flats or older buildings – the supplier must offer you an alternative assessed charge, which estimates your usage.
There are a few exceptions. In Scotland and Northern Ireland, the rules may differ. In some cases, landlords or managing agents may need to be involved if you’re renting.
If you’re worried about how switching to a meter might affect your payments, it’s a good idea to review your options for paying your water bill and check if you could save money with a meter. You usually have up to 12 months after installation to switch back to unmetered billing if you change your mind (unless you move home).
By understanding your rights and following these steps, you can make an informed decision about installing a water meter and manage the process with confidence.
Checking Eligibility for a Free Meter
Checking Eligibility for a Free Meter
If you’re thinking about switching to a water meter, one of the first things to consider is whether you can have one installed free of charge. In most parts of the UK, water companies are required by law to fit a water meter for free if you request one, as long as it is practical and safe to do so. This right is set out in the Water Industry Act 1999.
Who Qualifies for a Free Water Meter Installation?
Most household customers have the right to ask their water company for a free meter. This applies whether you own your home or rent it. If you are a tenant, you can request a meter as long as your tenancy agreement is for six months or more. If your tenancy is shorter, you may need your landlord’s permission.
There are a few exceptions. For example, if you live in a flat or property where it isn’t possible to fit an individual meter (perhaps because of the building’s plumbing system), your water company might not be able to install one. In these cases, they may offer an alternative way to charge you for water based on estimated use, known as an ‘assessed charge’.
Conditions for a Free Meter Installation
Under the current regulations, water companies are obliged to fit a meter at no cost to you if:
It is technically possible – The company must be able to fit a meter at your property without major alterations to the plumbing.
It is safe to do so – The installation must not pose any health or safety risks.
You have not previously had a free meter fitted at the same property – If you have already had a free meter installed and then asked for it to be removed, you may not be entitled to another free installation.
If you live in an area with compulsory metering (for example, in some areas where water supplies are under pressure), you may be required to have a meter fitted, and this will usually be done at no cost to you.
What Happens if a Meter Cannot Be Installed?
If your water company finds that it is not practical or possible to fit a meter, they must explain why. In these cases, you cannot be charged for the cost of the attempted installation. Instead, you may be offered an assessed charge, which estimates your water use based on the size of your home or the number of people living there.
Practical Tips
Contact your water company to request a meter and ask about your eligibility.
Check your tenancy agreement if you are renting, to see if you need your landlord’s permission.
Keep records of any communication with your water company, especially if there are any complications.
In summary, most households in the UK are entitled to a free water meter installation if they ask for one, as long as it is possible and safe to do so. This gives you the chance to pay only for the water you actually use, which can help you save money and manage your bills more effectively.
Contacting Your Water Supplier
Contacting Your Water Supplier
Before you can switch to a water meter, you’ll need to get in touch with your water supplier to start the process. Here’s how to find their contact details, what information to provide when making your request, and what to expect in terms of timing.
How to Find Your Water Supplier’s Contact Details
If you’re unsure who supplies your water, you can usually find the company’s name on your latest water bill or account statement. Most water suppliers have dedicated customer service phone numbers and online forms specifically for water meter enquiries. You can also visit your supplier’s official website, where you’ll find up-to-date contact information and guidance on requesting a meter.
If you rent your home, you may want to check with your landlord or letting agent, as they should also have details of the water supplier for your property.
What to Say When Requesting a Meter
When you contact your supplier, let them know that you’d like to have a water meter installed at your property. Be ready to provide:
Your name and address
Your customer account number (if you have one)
The best way for the supplier to contact you
Any relevant details about your property (for example, if you live in a flat or a house, or if there are any access issues)
It can be helpful to explain why you’re requesting a meter – for example, if you believe it could lower your bills or help you manage water usage more effectively. The supplier may ask a few questions to confirm your eligibility and to check if a meter can be fitted at your home.
Timeframes for Installation Requests
Under the Water Industry Act 1999, most household customers in England and Wales have the legal right to request a free water meter installation from their supplier. Once you’ve made your request, the supplier is generally required to assess your property and install the meter within three months, provided there are no significant technical barriers.
If it’s not possible to fit a meter at your property (for example, due to plumbing limitations), the supplier must explain why and may offer an alternative such as an assessed charge, which estimates your usage based on the size of your home and the number of occupants.
During the process, your supplier should keep you informed about the progress of your request, including any appointments for surveys or installation. If you have any concerns about delays or the way your request is being handled, you have the right to raise a complaint with your supplier.
Remember, you are not obliged to justify your request – a water meter installation is your legal right in most cases, and suppliers are required to respond promptly and fairly.
What to Expect During Installation
When you decide to switch to a water meter, understanding what happens during the installation can help you feel prepared and confident about the process. Here’s what you can expect:
How the Installation Process Works
Once you request a water meter, your water company will usually arrange a survey to check if your property is suitable for a meter. This is a legal requirement under the Water Industry Act 1991, which gives most customers the right to have a meter installed if they ask for one.
After the survey, if your property is suitable, the water company will schedule an installation appointment. The meter is typically fitted where the water supply pipe enters your home – often outside in a boundary box, or sometimes inside, such as under the kitchen sink.
On the day, a trained engineer will arrive to carry out the work. They will turn off your water supply temporarily while they fit the meter. The engineer will also check for leaks and make sure the meter is working correctly before restoring your supply.
How Long It Takes and Possible Disruption
The installation itself usually takes between 30 minutes and two hours, depending on where the meter needs to be fitted and how easy it is to access your pipework. In most cases, your water will only be turned off for a short time – typically less than an hour.
You should expect some minor disruption, such as noise from drilling or digging if the meter is placed outside. If the work is more complex, for example if your pipes are difficult to access or repairs are needed, it may take longer. The water company should keep you informed and explain if there will be any delays.
After installation, the engineer will tidy up the area and make sure everything is safe before leaving. You may want to run your taps for a few minutes to clear any air or debris from the pipes.
Who Will Carry Out the Installation and Safety Considerations
Only authorised personnel from your water company or their approved contractors are allowed to install water meters. These engineers are trained to carry out the installation safely and in line with the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999, which are designed to protect your water supply and prevent contamination.
For your security, always ask to see the engineer’s identification before letting them into your home. If you have any concerns, contact your water company to confirm the appointment.
The installation process is designed to be as safe and straightforward as possible. Engineers follow strict health and safety guidelines, and your water supply should remain safe to use after the meter is fitted. If you notice any problems with your water quality or supply after installation, contact your water company immediately.
By knowing what to expect, you can plan for the installation and minimise any inconvenience to your daily routine. If you have specific needs or concerns, let your water company know in advance so they can make suitable arrangements.
Impact on Your Water Bills
When you switch from a fixed water charge to a water meter, the way your water bills are calculated changes significantly. Instead of paying a set amount based on your property’s size or rateable value, you’ll be billed for the actual amount of water your household uses. This can lead to savings for some, but higher costs for others, depending on your water habits and household size.
How Switching to a Meter May Change Your Water Bills
With a water meter, your bill reflects your real water consumption. If you use less water than the average for your property type, you could see a reduction in your bills. This is often the case for smaller households, individuals living alone, or families who are already careful with their water use. On the other hand, larger households or those with high water usage (such as frequent use of washing machines, dishwashers, or garden hoses) might find their bills increase after switching.
It’s important to note that water companies must follow Ofwat regulations, which require fair and transparent billing practices. You also have the right to ask your water supplier for a comparison between your current fixed charge and what your metered bill is likely to be before making the switch.
Estimated Bills vs Actual Meter Readings
When you have a water meter, your supplier will usually take regular readings to calculate your bill based on the precise amount of water you’ve used. However, if a reading can’t be taken (for example, if the meter is inaccessible), you may receive an estimated bill. This estimate is based on your past usage or average consumption for similar households.
If you receive an estimated bill and believe it doesn’t reflect your actual usage, you can provide your own meter reading to your supplier. This helps ensure your bill is accurate and you only pay for the water you’ve actually used.
Managing Your Water Usage to Save Money
Switching to a meter gives you more control over your water bills. By being mindful of your water use, you can often reduce your costs. Here are some practical tips:
Fix dripping taps and leaky toilets promptly.
Take shorter showers instead of baths.
Only run dishwashers and washing machines with full loads.
Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth.
Collect rainwater for garden use.
If you’re interested in broader ways to reduce household costs, you might also find these energy-saving tips useful.
Understanding your billing cycle can also help you plan ahead. For example, there may be certain months you do not pay water rates, depending on your supplier and payment plan, which can help with budgeting.
If Your Bills Increase or You’re Struggling to Pay
If your water bills go up after switching to a meter, or you find it difficult to manage payments, you have legal protections. Water companies are required to offer support for customers in financial hardship, including payment plans and assistance schemes. For more information on your rights and what support may be available, visit our page on help for water bills.
Switching to a water meter can be a positive change, but it’s important to understand how it will affect your bills and what you can do to manage costs effectively. If you have concerns or need more detailed advice, contact your water supplier or seek independent guidance.
Your Legal Rights and Protections
Your Legal Rights and Protections
When considering a switch to a water meter, it’s important to understand your legal rights and the protections in place to ensure you’re treated fairly. Here’s what you need to know about your options, what water companies can and can’t do, and where to turn if you have concerns.
Your Rights When Requesting or Refusing a Water Meter
Under UK law, most households have the right to request a water meter free of charge. Water companies are required to install a meter within three months of your request, provided it’s practical to do so. If it’s not possible or would be unreasonably expensive, your supplier must offer you an alternative way to pay based on your estimated usage, known as an “assessed charge.”
In some cases, your water company may require you to switch to a meter, especially if you move into a property that already has one installed, or if you use an unusually high amount of water (for example, for watering a large garden or filling a swimming pool). However, you cannot be forced to have a meter fitted if you are a tenant with a fixed-term tenancy of less than six months.
For more on the rules around metering and your rights as a customer, you can visit Ofwat, the regulator for water services in England and Wales.
Protections Against Unfair Charges or Installation Practices
Water companies must follow strict guidelines when installing meters and setting charges. They cannot charge you for the meter itself or for standard installation. Any changes to your bill must be explained clearly, and you should not be subject to hidden fees or unfair practices.
If you find that your bills increase significantly after switching to a meter, you have a legal right to switch back to your previous billing method within the first 12 months – provided your water company allows it and you have not moved house in the meantime. This is known as the “switch-back” option.
You’re also protected against being charged for water you haven’t used. If you notice unusual charges or suspect your meter is faulty, you can ask for it to be checked or replaced.
To better understand your rights and responsibilities as a water customer, see our guide to your water bill rights.
How to Challenge or Complain if You Have Concerns
If you’re unhappy with the way your water meter was installed, the accuracy of your bills, or the way your water company has handled your case, you have the right to challenge their decision or make a formal complaint. Start by contacting your water supplier directly and outlining your concerns. Keep a record of all communications and any evidence you have.
If the issue isn’t resolved, you can escalate your complaint. For advice on how to make an effective complaint about a utility service, including water, see our guidance on complaining about utility problems.
Should you find yourself struggling to pay your water bill after switching to a meter, help is available. Learn what steps you can take if you’re facing problems paying your water bill.
By understanding your rights and the protections in place, you can make informed decisions about switching to a water meter and ensure you’re treated fairly throughout the process.
What to Do if You Have Concerns or Issues
If you have concerns or run into problems after switching to a water meter, it’s important to know your rights and the steps you can take to resolve any issues. Here’s what you should do if you’re worried about your water meter, your bill, or the way your water supplier is handling your account.
Raising Concerns with Your Water Supplier
Your first step should always be to contact your water supplier directly. Water companies in the UK are required by law to have clear complaints procedures and must respond to your concerns within a reasonable time. If you’re unhappy with the way your meter was installed, have questions about how your bill is calculated, or feel you weren’t given enough information about the change, explain your issue in writing or by phone. Keep a record of your communication, including dates and the names of any staff you speak to.
Water suppliers are regulated by Ofwat and must follow the Water Industry Act 1991, which sets out your rights as a customer. This includes the right to a fair and accurate bill, and the right to have any complaint properly investigated.
If You Think Your Meter Is Inaccurate or Your Bill Is Wrong
If you suspect your water meter is faulty or that your bill doesn’t reflect your actual usage, you can ask your supplier to check the meter. By law, the company must investigate and, if necessary, arrange for the meter to be tested. If the meter is found to be working correctly, you may be charged for the test, but if it’s faulty, the test is free and your bill will be corrected.
Common signs of a problem include sudden increases in your bill, readings that don’t match your own checks, or a meter that continues to run when no water is being used. If you spot any of these, contact your supplier as soon as possible. It’s helpful to take regular readings yourself and note them down, so you have a record to refer to.
Where to Get Free Advice and Support
If you’re not satisfied with your supplier’s response, or you need further help understanding your rights, there are several places you can turn for free advice. You may want to explore legal advice for water bills to understand your options and access assistance programs designed to help with disputes or financial difficulties.
If your main concern is affordability – perhaps you’re struggling to pay your water bill after moving to a meter – there are dedicated services that can help. Find out more about help with paying your water bill and what support might be available to you.
Remember, you are protected by consumer rights laws and industry regulations. If your issue remains unresolved after following the supplier’s complaints process, you may have the right to escalate your complaint to the Consumer Council for Water (CCW) or, in some cases, to an independent ombudsman.
Taking prompt action and seeking advice early can help ensure your concerns are addressed fairly and efficiently.
Additional Considerations When Changing to a Water Meter
When considering a switch to a water meter, it’s important to look beyond the immediate impact on your water bill and think about how this change fits with your wider household utilities, especially if you’re planning to move home or manage multiple accounts.
Switching to a Water Meter When Moving Home
If you’re moving house, you may be able to request a water meter at your new property or find that one is already installed. The process for setting up your water billing may differ depending on your water supplier and whether the property is already metered. It’s a good idea to review the process for moving home and water bills to understand your responsibilities, including how and when to notify your supplier, and what to expect regarding final bills or meter readings.
Coordinating Water and Energy Changes
Changing to a water meter often coincides with other utility changes, particularly when moving home. Alongside updating your water billing arrangements, you may also need to review your gas and electricity supplies. For practical advice on handling these changes together, see our guidance on energy supply considerations when moving home. Coordinating your utility accounts can help prevent unexpected charges and ensure a smooth transition in your new property.
Managing Your Household Bills
Switching to a water meter can affect your overall household budget. Metered billing means your charges will reflect the amount of water your household actually uses, which may be higher or lower than a fixed rate. It’s worth tracking your usage in the first few months to see how your bills are affected. If you find your bills increase significantly, you may be eligible for support schemes or tariffs – check with your water supplier for details.
You are legally entitled to request a water meter, and in most cases, you can switch back to unmetered billing within 12 months if you are unhappy with the change (unless you move to a property where a meter is already installed). This right is protected under the Water Industry Act 1999.
Online Account Management for Businesses
For business customers, moving to a water meter can offer greater control over water costs and consumption. Many suppliers now offer online platforms to help you track usage, review bills, and manage payments. If your business has recently switched to metered billing, you can streamline your account by managing UK business water services online. This makes it easier to monitor usage trends, identify potential savings, and stay on top of your legal obligations as a business water customer.
By considering these additional factors, you can make informed decisions about switching to a water meter and ensure your household or business is well-prepared for any changes to your utility arrangements.
