Can A Water Meter Be Added to an Older Home?

If you own a property and water use (as well as the potential bills it can build up) is on your mind, it may be beneficial to consider having a water meter installed…or removed.

At National Energy Direct we understand utility bills can be a major stressor for homeowners, especially in the current climate of soaring energy prices as part of the ongoing wider cost of living crisis in the UK.

What Is A Water Meter?

A water meter is a device installed within a home to measure the amount of water used by the property, this information is then passed over to the home’s water supplier and translated into the amount of money the property will be charged.

You as a homeowner have the right to be charged for your water depending on your usage amount. This means you can have a meter installed free of charge (unless it's not practical or is unreasonably expensive to do this).

In rental properties, tenants also have the right to ask for a meter if their tenancy agreement is for six months or longer (providing the landlord gives permission) .

Water Meters For Older Homes (Non New Builds)

An older property (non new build) can have a water meter installed upon the owner’s request. A meter is most suited to home’s that do not have high water usage or in turn the property has a high rateable value.

Benefits Of Having A Water Meter

The pros of having a water meter installed include-

Homeowners only pay for the water they actually use

Having a meter fitted often results in property owners becoming more water conscious and economical with their usage

A water meter can be responsible for the early detection of a leak by showing unexplainably excessive usage

If you have a meter installed and subsequently find you don’t save money, you can have the process reversed, but only in the first two years post installation

Negatives Of Having A Water Meter

Potential drawbacks of having a water meter installed can include-

A high water usage, i.e. a large property with multiple bathrooms or a big family, will use a lot of water and directly increase the amount the property will have to pay

A meter is good for detecting leaks, however in many cases if you have a meter it’s your responsibility to pay for the wasted water

Fixed water fees mean no unexpected price surprises or seasonal fluctuations, allowing for a property owner to account for costs and budget accordingly

Even if you change your mind, If the time period for the meter’s removal has elapsed you can't have the meter removed

A water meter could affect a future sale of the property, prospective buyers may be put off by a home with a meter if this doesn't fit their purchasing requirements

A water meter should be a considered addition to the home, a property owner must carry out their research and due diligence in terms of whether their home would benefit from having a meter installed. Proactively study and assess your current utility bills and speak to your water provider before committing to a meter installation.

National Energy Direct

As a full member of the WIRS (Water Industry Registration Scheme), we offer water meter installation and removal services.