Would it be cheaper to go on a meter?

Elle00

Hi all, I've recently moved into a housing association property and the water charge is set at £8.73 per week.

I'm a Mum of one little one who tends to be quite conservative with water (two to three baths a week each (mini ones for little 'un), four loads of washing on economy setting, wash up using a bowl, turn the tap off when brushing teeth, wash at the sink in the mornings etc). So I'm wondering if I'd save a few quid getting a meter put in?

I have no experience of water rates because in the flat I lived in for 2yrs, I've yet to receive a sensible bill thanks to a ridiculous leak problem. The balance is still £7k and 3 Valleys haven't sorted it despite numerous calls and letters from me. So when I say I have no idea how much water should cost for a Mum of one - it's with good reason.

deanos

You are paying around £450 a year for your watter currently, you should be better off with a meter, the only stumbling block is that the property isnt yours so you may need permission to get a meter fitted, you do have a year to revert back to how you were paying before if you do find its dearer, i always advise customers to give it a go as they have nothing to loose and quite alot to gain

anony_mouse_5

Normally you will need to get the landlords permission (as deanos said)
but being housing associations they normally tend to be OK.
I do know of quite a few tenants who just have the meter fitted without telling their landlord.
You should see a reduction in your bill but as is already stated you have 12 months to make a decision.

Elle00

The permission thing is fine, I was just told to write a letter requesting one and they'll forward me the permission letter I need to have one fitted. Thanks to anony mouse for the PM info on how to work out if I'll be better off.