Is it mandatory to have a water meter?

Asked by: Cory Perkins

That said, it’s not a legal requirement. The rule simply gives water companies the power to choose to use metering as a way of managing water resources in their area.

Can I refuse a water meter UK?

The company can refuse your request to install a meter if it would be impractical or too expensive to do so (see page 15). The company will choose where to put the meter. You can ask for it to be installed in a different place, but you may be required to pay the difference in costs.

What happens if I don’t have a water meter?

If you don’t have a water meter, you will pay an unmeasured charge. This is often made up of a standing charge and a charge that varies. You can have an unmeasured charge based on one of these things: a flat rate charge.

Can I go off a water meter?

You cannot remove the water meter from the property, but your water bill will switch back to an unmetered one. If you move out, and someone else moves in, they will be charged based on the meter, and the water they use.

Can you revert back from a water meter?

Yes, if you’ve applied to switch to a water meter and change your mind within 24 months of the meter being fitted you can go back to being billed on an unmetered charge. If you choose to switch to a meter again in the future you will not be able to revert back to unmeasured chares again.

Is it compulsory to have a water meter 2021?

Official: DEFRA confirms ‘Smart’ Water Meters are NOT compulsory.

Does every house have a water meter?

In 1990 it became compulsory for all new homes to be fitted with a water meter. If the home you have moved into was built before 1990, a previous occupier will have asked us to fit a water meter. When you move into a home which already has a water meter fitted, you cannot make a request for it to be removed.

Do you get reduced water rates if you live alone?

If you live alone
You cannot get a discount on your water bill for single occupancy. But your bill should be less than if you lived with other people because either: you have a water meter and only pay for the water you use. your flat rate is based on the amount of water someone living alone uses.

How much is average water bill UK?

£408

What is the average UK water bill per month? According to Water UK which represents the major water companies in the UK the average water bill for the 2021/22 financial year is £408. There is no one single rate for water use across the UK.

Are water meters free to install?

Your right to have a meter installed
You have a right to be charged for your water on the basis of what you use. This means you have a right to have a meter installed free of charge, unless it’s not practical or is unreasonably expensive to do this.

Can you check if a property has a water meter?

You can check if you’re on a water meter by referring to your latest bill. If you see a section on the second page showing a meter serial number and meter reads then you’re on a meter. Internal meters are usually located in the kitchen, airing cupboard or bathroom.

Do all new builds have water meters?

Since 1990, all new properties require a water meter – we’re here to help you meet that requirement.

Where is my water meter in my flat?

If you don’t find it outside, it may be inside your home – either under the sink or near the stop tap. If you live in a flat or or apartment, you might find your water meter and stop tap in a cabinet inside the building. Your meter should be marked with your flat number.