Apply for a meter
Interested in a water meter?
That's great news. Applying is quick and easy. Simply log in or create an account to complete our short form.
Why get a water meter?
- Only pay for the water you use - not your home's rateable value.
- It's free to install, as long we can fit it in our preferred location.
- Receive bills every six months instead of once a year.
- Compare your usage with similar households.
- Helps reduce leaks and protect water supplies for future generations.
What happens after I apply?
We aim to fit your meter within 90 days. The timing depends on demand and the meter's location. If it takes longer, your metered charges will start from day 90.
If you need help with your payments before then, message us on WhatsApp (opens in a new window) or call 0345 782 0111 so we can help you.
Long description of diagram
We aim to get your meter installed within 90 days.
Application
We receive your application and do a desktop survey.
Onsite survey
In some cases, we may need to carry out a survey at your property and will install a meter at the same time. If we can't do this all in one visit, we'll let you know the next steps.
Installation
We'll let you know where we plan to install the meter, and when.If you don’t already have an external boundary box that will house a meter, we will look to fit it directly above the internal stop tap. If you would like it somewhere else, our technician will advise on the options and potential costs.You can view our Terms and Conditions below. If we're unable to install a meter, we can adjust your bill to an Assessed Measured Charge.
Billing
Once we've fitted the meter, you will get a new bill within 30 days, and get a bill based on your usage every six months.
Smart
Once your area is connected to our smart network, you can access your usage information in our app and via your online account in near real time. We will let you know when you are connected.
Important information about your meter application
Here's what you need to know when applying for a water meter.
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Where will the meter be fitted? |
How long does it take to fit the meter? |
How long does it take to get a water meter? |
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If your property already has an external stop tap and suitable chamber, the meter will be fitted there.
If not, we’ll fit it next to your internal stop tap.
If you chose to have it in a different location, there may be a cost involved. The technician will discuss the options with you. |
Depending on the amount of work needed, the fitting can take up to 90 minutes, usually with the water turned off during this time.
We may need to expose pipework or cut into the back of cupboards, but our technician will always discuss the work before starting.
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We aim to install your meter within 90 days. Sometimes this is not possible, but we will keep you updated during the process, including any delays.
If it takes longer than 90 days, your bill will be adjusted once your meter is fitted, and any overpayment will be refunded to you.
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FAQs
If we have to visit your property to carry out a survey or fit the meter, we’ll make an appointment that is convenient for you. To help the visit go smoothly.
Here are a few things you can prepare:
Check your internal stop tap:
- Do you know where it is? It could be either under the kitchen sink, bathroom or in the boiler cupboard.
- Is it working? You can check by turning it off, running the water until it stops, then turning it back on. (Remember to keep all taps off).
- Make sure there’s nothing blocking access, like furniture or belongings.
If you have a boundary box outside your property (this is usually a small metal or plastic box near the pavement or driveway that covers the water meter):
- Make sure it’s easy to access, with no overgrown shrubs or trees.
- No vehicles parked on or near it.
Yes. When we fit your water meter, the water will need to be turned off.
The time it takes depends on the work involved, but it usually lasts between 15 and 90 minutes. Before we turn off the water, the technician will let you know so you can prepare, like filling up the kettle.
If your tenancy agreement is for over six months, you can apply for a water meter online. You don't need your landlord's permission.
If your agreement is for less than six months, you need your landlord's permission to apply.
Download our landlord permission form (PDF, 150KB) and email it to webcustaccs@eswater.co.uk
Please include your name, address and account number, if you know it, so we can process your application quickly.
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