The cost of installing separate water meters varies greatly depending on several factors, such as the type of meters, the property’s location, the number of meters to be installed, and the complexity of the installation.
On average, the cost can range from $200 to $800 per meter, with additional costs for excavation and piping. The cost will depend on the type of meter, the property’s location, the installation’s complexity, and other factors, with the cost going up to $5,000 or more.
Factors determining the price
Here are the main factors determining the cost and the average costs for each of them:
- Type of meter ($100 to $400 each)
- Location of the property ($500 to $1000)
- Number of meters to be installed ($200-$800 per meter)
- Complexity of the installation ($500-$2000)
- Contractor’s charges (10-20% of total cost)
- Materials used ($100-$500)
- Permits and inspections ($100-$500)
- Labor costs ($500-$2000)
Here are the costs of separate water meter installation in a table:
| Factor | Average Cost |
| Type of meter (smart) | $200-$400 |
| Type of meter (basic) | $100-$200 |
| Location (remote or hard-to-reach) | $500-$1000 |
| Number of meters | $200-$800 per meter |
| Complexity of installation | $500-$2000 |
| Contractor’s charges | 10-20% of total cost |
| Materials used | $100-$500 |
| Permits and inspections | $100-$500 |
| Labor costs | $500-$2000 |
Now let’s look at the factors independently and what each of them includes.
Type of meter
Some meters are more complex to install than others and may have a higher cost. Advanced meter systems, such as smart meters, can cost around $200-$400 each, while basic mechanical meters can cost around $100-$200 each.
A smart meter can allow remote monitoring of water usage and alert homeowners when there is a potential leak. However, basic meters are simpler and may be a more cost-effective option for those who only need to track their water usage.
Location of the property
The location and access to the main water line can impact the installation cost. Properties in remote or hard-to-reach locations may incur additional costs for excavation and piping, adding $500-$1000 to the overall cost. On average, the cost for remote properties may range from $1,500 to $5,000 or more.
Number of meters to be installed
Installing multiple water meters will increase the project’s overall cost. Each additional meter can add around $200-$800 to the total cost, depending on the type of meter and the complexity of the installation.
Complexity of the installation
The complexity of the installation, such as the distance between the main water line and the location of the meter, the need for excavation or piping, and any obstacles that need to be overcome, can impact the cost of installation. Depending on the project’s specifics, this can add anywhere from $500-$2000 to the total cost.
The cost may be higher if the installation requires additional plumbing work, such as re-routing pipes. On average, the cost for complex installations may range from $1,500 to $5,000 or more. On the other hand, if the installation is relatively simple, the cost may be lower.
Contractor’s charges
The contractor’s charges can also impact the overall cost of the project, as some contractors may charge more for their services than others. On average, contractor charges can add around 10-20% to the total cost.
Contractors typically charge a percentage of the total cost, and the exact amount may vary depending on their experience, reputation, and the complexity of the installation.
Materials used
The cost of the materials used in the installation, such as meters, pipes, and fittings can also impact the overall cost. The cost of materials can range from $100 to $500, depending on the type and quality of materials used.
For example, the cost may be higher if high-end materials are used, such as copper pipes. On the other hand, the cost may be lower if more cost-effective materials are used, such as plastic pipes.
Permits and inspections
The cost of permits and inspections may also need to be factored into the project cost. This can add around $100-$500 to the total cost, depending on the project’s specifics and the area’s regulations. These costs may vary depending on local regulations and the type of installation being performed.
Labor costs
The cost of labor, including the cost of the installation crew and any necessary supervisors, can also impact the project’s overall cost. Labor costs can range from $500 to $2000, depending on the project’s complexity and the labor force’s experience.
Why would a home need two water meters?
A home may need two water meters if it has separate water supply systems for different purposes, such as a separate meter for irrigation and a separate meter for indoor use.
Another reason a home may need two meters is if it has multiple living units, such as a duplex or triplex, and each unit is responsible for paying its own water bill. In this case, each unit would have its own water meter to accurately measure the water usage for that unit.
Having two water meters can provide more accurate billing and ensure that each person is only paying for the water they use.
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Can a Water Meter help me save money in the long run?
A separate water meter can help you save money in the long run. By having a separate meter for each unit, you can accurately track and measure the water usage of each individual unit, which can lead to a reduction in water waste.
This can result in lower water bills, as you will only be paying for the water that you use, rather than a portion of the total water usage of the entire property. Additionally, by being more aware of your water usage, you may also be motivated to make changes to reduce your water consumption, leading to further savings in the long run.
Consider installing an irrigation meter if you frequently use water to irrigate your grass or garden, fill a pool or hot tub, or maintain your home and vehicle.
How long do water meters last?
On average, most water meters have a lifespan of 15 to 20 years, but some high-end models can last up to 25 years or more with proper maintenance and usage.
Regular maintenance and timely replacement of worn or damaged components can help extend the lifespan of a water meter, ensuring that it continues to accurately measure water usage over time.
Does a water meter affect property value?
The presence of a water meter may not have a significant effect on a property’s overall value, but it can have some benefits for the property owner.
Having a water meter can help property owners better understand their water usage and reduce waste, leading to lower water bills. This can be particularly beneficial for property owners who are charged for water usage based on their individual usage rather than a flat rate.
Additionally, the presence of a water meter indicates that the property has updated infrastructure, which can be seen as a positive feature by potential buyers. However, the overall impact of a water meter on property value is likely to be minimal, and other factors, such as location, size, and condition, will have a greater impact on the value of a property.
