What’s your Opinions On Water Meters?

Hi all,

I’m in the process of slowly starting to prepare my one bed apartment to a standard of living, ready to be let out in the future.

I am currently paying (as I’m living in the property at present), over £400 per year for my water bill. It’s apparently fixed rate and will increase next March.

This got me thinking about the impact this may have on any tenants. As I’m struggling to pay!

I’m trying to make my property as cost effective, accessible and affordable for everyone including myself with the utilities and try to put things in place where it’s easier for me as a LL to manage, as I’ll be relocating over 150miles away.

I was thinking if I was to get a Water Meter installed, would this be beneficial all round?

What is everyone’s experience?

Kind regards
Star

There are 3 ways to charge for water - meter, rateable value or assessed charges. Then there are social tariffs for those on low income. Google assessed water bills on the Ofwat site. Your water company can refuse to install a water meter at your property if it is not practical or is too expensive for it to fit one.

Most renters don’t care about water charges as you cannot be cut off. It would be a criminal offence. Lots of people don’t pay their water bills and get a surprise when a HCEO turns up to seize goods.

TBH it’s not going to be a key selling point when renting and do you want the hassle?

Edited for the sake of clarity. Though most don’t care, only some don’t pay.

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Hi,
Appreciate your feedback.

This option is strictly to try to keep costs down. I understand you say most don’t pay their bills, but I do and is ultimately responsible for my property regardless.

I just wanted to know if any landlords have water meters and they are worth installing.