Remotely read meters measure drinking or recycled water use like other meters, but we can read them from a distance. Great if you want privacy or your meter is hard to access.
This form is a request to replace an existing water meter with a remotely read meter. If you have a private meter or don't have an existing water meter, go to Sydney Water Tap in® and apply for a new one. Make sure you state that you want a remotely read meter.
How remotely read meters work
A remotely read meter has a battery and a low-powered wireless transmitter similar to a remote control for a garage door. When a meter reader is near your property, your meter sends the reading to their handheld device. If nothing is blocking transmission between the meter and the meter reader, readings can be taken up to 50 metres away.
It's completely secure. Only your meter number and reading are transmitted, and they're encrypted. When you get your bill, compare the reading on your meter with the one on your bill. They should be roughly the same.
If you have more questions, email us at metermaintenance@sydneywater.com.au.
Some locations aren't suitable
Remotely read meters can only transmit readings if there's no structure blocking transmission. They can't transmit if they're in a meter box, behind a wall or at the bottom of a stairwell.
A remotely read meter may sit higher than your current meter.
One-off installation charge
The one-off charge to install a new remotely read meter depends on the size of your current meter. After installation, this charge will be added to your bill. If you sell the property, the meter must be left in place.
If we have a problem reading your remotely read meter once it's installed, this one-off charge will be refunded. We'll take care of future maintenance and replacement costs unless the meter is damaged. In that case, you'll have to pay to repair or replace it.
If you have a business strata property and currently share a meter, having your own remotely read meter means you'll pay a higher individual water service charge. However, you'll only be paying for your own water usage.
| Meter number starts with | Meter size | Meter cost including GST |
|---|---|---|
B | 20 mm | $325.05 |
C | 25 mm | $343.54 |
D, E or F | 32 mm, 40 mm or 50 mm light duty | $377.04 |
G, H or J | 50 mm heavy duty, 80 mm or 100 mm | $661.45 |
K, L, M or N | Larger than 100 mm | Not available |
Before we install your remotely read meter
Clear the area around your existing water meter and make sure you have at least 150 millimetres of clear height above, below and around it. Our contractor will need to turn off your water for up to 30 minutes during installation.