Forced To Accept Water Meter

Danny30

Hi, I have just received a letter from Affinity Water stating that they are going to be fitting a water meter within the next few months. I really don't really want to have a water meter and was wondering if anyone else has had a similar situation. Do I have to accept it, or can I refuse to have one put in? 

BUFF

If you are in England it's probably cheaper for you to have one.

nofoollikeold

1. If you are in England, and your water company can claim you are in a "water stressed" area, you have to accept the meter.
2. You don't have to pay on a metered basis for up to two years after installation, provided your don't apply for a meter.

Danny30

Thank you. So I have to have one by the looks of it.  So what are peoples experience with water meters cost wise. Is the average bill cheaper or more expensive then the rateable charge?

Brie

it will depend on the household.  if you have a huge place, large family, several servants, swimming pool etc then not being on a meter will be cheaper.  If you are a single individual in a small flat being on a meter will be cheaper.

Danny30

Lol, definitely no mansion or servants. We are 2 adults and 2 children in a 3- bedroom semi in London. We don't use that much water I don't think but have no idea how to estimate usage. With energy I have a spreadsheet so can keep tabs in my usage but am lost with water calculations.

MattMattMattUK

Danny30 said:

Thank you. So I have to have one by the looks of it.  So what are peoples experience with water meters cost wise. Is the average bill cheaper or more expensive then the rateable charge?

Usually for all but the highest water users they are cheaper. You can work it out on the below calculator if you want to. Hopefully they will keep pushing forward with water meters as it is only fair people pay for what they use. 

https://www.ccwater.org.uk/watermetercalculator/

Danny30

Checked the calculator and is around the same price I am paying. Wonder how accurate it is

silvercar

I was pleasantly surprised on the difference a meter makes. I’m also with affinity, the difference between their rates for metered supply and for non-metered have been increasing year by year in an effort to encourage people to change over.

they used to have a scheme whereby if the meter reading led to increased bills you could choose to be charged as a non- metered supply, I don’t know if this is still running.

ka7e

When you're on a meter and become "water-aware" it actually gives you the opportunity to reduce your consumption and costs. A few simple things like not leaving the tap running when you clean your teeth, reusing washing-up water on the garden in summer and using washing machines/dishwashers efficiently can help. You get to manage your usage in the same way you do for gas and electricity.

pattycake

We have lived in our house for over 30 years. Council tax Band E.  Four bed, two bath, downstairs loo.  Suited us fine when we were a family but now the kids have left we save a a fortune by having a water meter.  We are are frugal with our use of water not only to protect our bank account but also the environment.