How Individual Water Meters Benefit You and Your Tenants

What are Individual Water Meters?

Individual water meters, also referred to as submeters, are devices that gauge the water consumption of each unit within a residential complex. These meters are installed into the water meter serving the building and are connected to the plumbing system of each unit.

The advantage of having individual water meters is that they enable you to monitor and invoice each tenant’s water usage separately. By dividing the water bill among all tenants based on factors like the number of units or square footage, this approach ensures that each tenant only pays for the amount of water they actually use. Moreover, it allows you to pay solely for the water consumed in common areas.

Why are Individual Water Meters Important?

Individual water can benefit you and your tenants in many ways. Here are some of these advantages:

• Save water: Having individual water meters encourages tenants to be mindful of their water usage. They become more aware of how much water they use and/or waste. According to a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency study, submetering can reduce water consumption by 15% to 39% in multifamily buildings¹.
• Save money: Having water meters can help cut down on the water bill. Because tenants will pay for their own usage. Additionally, it allows for easier detection of leaks, which ultimately saves you money with maintenance and repairs. According to a report by the National Apartment Association, submetering can save property owners up to 50% on their water and sewer costs².
• Increase value: Individual water meters increase the value and appeal of your property. The property becomes more attractive to potential investors, buyers, and tenants. Submetering increases the energy efficiency and sustainability of the building, which can boost the building’s reputation in the market. Submetered buildings can have higher rents, lower vacancy rates, and higher occupancy rates than non-submetered buildings³.
• Comply with regulations: In Utah, individual water meters are mandatory for newer buildings. However, if you plan to do any big renovations to an older property you’ll want to double check the local regulations and codes that require submetering in multifamily buildings. In Utah, submetering is mandatory for new construction and major renovations of multifamily buildings with four or more units⁴. Submetering is also required for existing multifamily buildings that receive water from a public water system and have a water rate that is based on metered consumption⁵.

How to Install Individual Water Meters in Your Multifamily Building?

Installing water meters in a multi-unit residential building is not a complex endeavor, but it does necessitate careful consideration and advance preparation. Here are the recommended steps;

• Get approval: Before starting this project, it’s important to get approval from the city, county, and water company. It may be necessary to obtain permits, undergo inspections, and acquire approval from organizations like the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL), the Utah Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), and the Utah Public Service Commission (PSC). Additionally, if you currently have renters, it’s important to inform them, as submetering can impact their lease agreements and rent payments. The lease agreements will need to be respected but things can go into effect with lease renewals.
• Choose a plumber: Once you’re ready to move it’s important to select a plumber who can assist you with the installation of the separate water meters. It’s crucial that the plumber you choose is properly licensed, insured, and bonded and possesses experience and knowledge in submetering. for more information check out How to Choose a Plumber for a Rental Property in Utah County
• Get multiple quotes: After compiling a list of a few plumbers, ask for quotes. Keep in mind prices shouldn’t be the only factor. It’s important to know they are skilled, will provide quick, effective service, and offer a competitive rate. Additionally, you may want to ask about an on-site inspection and ensure that a written contract is provided that outlines the project’s scope, timeline, and warranty.
• Install the meters: Once you have an agreement with a plumber. You can move forward with installing the water meters. The plumber will dig down to your water connection set up a meter box to safeguard and provide access, to the meter and connect a meter to the plumbing system of each unit. Additionally the plumber will conduct tests on the meters to ensure their functioning and accuracy.

Conclusion

If you’re considering installing water meters for each unit in a multifamily rental, do it as it can be a wise and lucrative decision for you and your tenants. Doing this can help conserve water, save money, and reduce hassle but also enhance the overall value and attractiveness of your property. Moreover, it ensures compliance with regulations that mandate submetering in buildings.

Should you be interested in adding water meters to your building located in Utah County, feel free to reach out to us at Sunset Plumbing Utah. We are a licensed, insured, bonded plumbing company specializing in submetering services. With years of experience under our belt and an abundance of reviews from satisfied customers, we guarantee competitive pricing. No matter the scale or complexity of your submetering project we assure you promptness, efficiency, affordability. Our emergency services are 24/7. Contact us today for a quote!