Change From Water Meter to Standard Rate?

fleetingmind

I moved into our property March last year and Thames Water's policy is to install a new water meter for people who move into properties. I have had my first bill and it is sky high. They said it was the equivalent of a 5 people home. there is only 3 of us and one of them is my 1 year old daughter.
Add to that I didn't wash my car, fill paddling pools and water any plants in that period.

I'm dreading the next bill and was wondering if you are able to go back to paying a fixed price as the meter can't be right. Any done this?


Cheers.

Biggie

I had to have a meter installed as well when I moved.

It was compulsary to install it never mind talking it out !!!!.

fleetingmind

Biggie wrote: »

I had to have a meter installed as well when I moved.

It was compulsary to install it never mind talking it out !!!!.

You found it cheaper with it?

Who regulates these meters and gas ones. They can set them up to turn as quick as they wanted them to. Who would know.

Rikki

Click Here Some of your questions have been answered there.

ashcarrot

how much is sky high? so we can guage how correct it is. Also could it just been a mistake on the first billing, or some sort of billing in advance or something. Monitor the usage and see if it seems right.

ic

In my area (United Utilities), it is optional to install a meter, however once in the householder has 13 months to choose to go back to rates. If you move in and one is already there, you're stuck with it. I'm sure the same rules probably apply elsewhere, unless you've been forced to take the meter - in which case you'll be stuck with it.

I had one fitted when I moved in - my rates were £20, I expected my cost on the meter to be £12 - it wasn't, it was £25! So I've gone back to rates and now wash the car, shower and flush the loo to my hearts content. Whoever I eventually sell the house to will however be stuck with the meter.

Dick_here

There are 3 of us in a semi-detached bungalow. Anglian Water have just changed our direct debit from £22 to £46pm, based upon our alleged metered usage, and we really do try to use as little as possible. All very suspect.

fleetingmind

On Thames Water website it says this: -
" Customers who request a meter can revert back to their unmetered charge if they are not happy with their metered bill, providing they do so within 12 months of the meter installation. If you move out of your house the meter will remain at the property and this will be the basis of charge for the new occupier."

" Since 1st April 2005, we have been installing water meters in certain areas of our region, when there has been a change of occupier. We have the legal right to do this under section 144B of the Water Industry Act. Please refer to our regulator Ofwat for further details."

Rikki

Take meter readings.
Turn everything off and see if the meter is going round.
If it still goes round you have a leak and need to get it checked.
If not thats the amount of water you are using.