Having a water meter installed
Since 2012, many municipalities have required water meters in all non-residential buildings such as businesses, factories, offices and institutions (libraries and churches, for example). A plumber must perform the work. The plumber will prepare the plumbing to be equipped with a water meter.
Why a water meter?
Municipalities that have decided to install water meters want to be able to detect leaks and avoid wasting water.
Whose responsibility is it to install the water meter?
Responsibility for installing water meters is shared by the municipality and the owner. Water meters are provided and installed by the municipality at its own expense. The owner is responsible for providing the municipality with access to their plumbing system and ensuring at their own expense that it can be fitted with a water meter.
Plumbing requirements
Various things need to be done before a water meter is installed. The work will vary depending on the type of building and the existing plumbing. These are the tasks that need to be carried out:
- Add valves
- Add a water meter connection
- Install transition parts
- Add a diversion route
- Install a backflow device
Moving or replacing a water meter
If you’re doing a refit, you may need to move the water meter. You’ll then have to change the plumbing and put the meter back at your own expense. In the event of breakage or malfunction, you will need to have it replaced.
