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Area D Water Meter – FAQs

The following FAQs (frequently asked questions) has been created to provide clear and accessible information about the Area D Water Installation Project, addressing common questions and concerns raised by the community.

What is the purpose of the water meter installation project?

The goal is to promote water conservation by tracking individual water use. By connecting billing to usage, residents can make informed decisions and identify leaks, helping to reduce overall water consumption.


Will I have to pay for the installation of my water meter?

No, the installation of the water meter is fully funded by a Provincial grant, so there will be no cost to you.


How much will my water bill change with a meter?

For metered properties, billing will reflect actual water usage, which can vary. Generally, communities with metering see reduced consumption and may lower their bills. The average use in similar communities decreased by around 30%.


Where will the water meter be installed?

Meters will be installed on public property, within the Ministry of Transportation Road allowance, near the boundary of your property. No installation work will occur on private property.


What type of water meter is being installed?

Kamstrup Radio Read meters will be installed. These meters enable easy, remote reading and efficient data collection.


What happens if a leak is found during installation?

The installation team will monitor for any signs of leakage. If a leak is found on public property, it will be addressed by the Regional District. If a potential issue is identified on private property, you’ll be informed so it can be managed accordingly.


How long will the installation take, and will my water be turned off?

The installation typically takes a few hours, with water service interruptions lasting up to three hours. The contractor will knock on your door one hour before the shutdown to notify you.


When will I get my water meter?

You will receive a notification letter from the contractor one week before your scheduled installation date. The letter will include:

  • Proposed installation date
  • Duration of the water service interruption (up to three hours)
  • Confirmation that the meter will be installed on public property, not private property
  • Contractor’s contact information, including a 24-hour emergency number

On the day of installation, the contractor will knock on your door one hour before starting and provide an additional copy of the notification if needed. If you have concerns about landscaping near the installation site on public land, you can contact the contractor directly.


What if I have landscaping where the meter is going to be installed?

If landscaping on public property (e.g., a boulevard) may be affected, the contractor will give you one week’s notice before any permanent removal and allow you to relocate the plants if desired.


What do I need to do to prepare?

To prepare for the project, you may want to inspect your home’s plumbing to ensure it is in good condition.

With this system upgrade, older homes may need to update their plumbing to avoid any issues. Residents are recommended to check if their home requires the installation of:

• An expansion tank on the hot water heater
• A pressure-reducing valve

It is each homeowner’s responsibility to assess your plumbing and take the necessary steps to prepare for the water meter installation. Consulting a licensed plumber is the best way to determine if your home is up to current standards.

More information can be found in the September 2024 important notice which was mailed to all property owners.  View notice here >.

If you have valued plants or landscaping near your water connection, consider relocating them ahead of time to avoid potential disruptions during the work. Taking these steps can help ensure a smooth and hassle-free process as the project moves forward.


Why do I need to check my plumbing before the water meter installation?

The new water meter system will include a device called a backflow preventer. This device stops water from flowing backward into the main water system, which is an important safety feature. However, when water inside your plumbing system is heated, it expands. Without a place to go, this increased pressure can build up and may cause leaks, often through the pressure relief valve on your hot water heater.

Currently, in some homes, this extra pressure can dissipate back into the water main. After the backflow preventer is installed, that will no longer be possible.

To prevent issues like leaks or damage:

  • An expansion tank gives the expanding water a place to go, reducing the risk of leaks.
  • A pressure-reducing valve (PRV) also helps manage water pressure, and many PRVs include a backflow preventer.

If your home already has a backflow preventer, your plumbing is likely set up to handle these pressure changes, and the new water meter won’t change how your system regulates pressure.

Because every home’s plumbing is different, it’s best to consult a licensed plumber to:

  • Check what devices your home already has
  • Evaluate any risks from the water meter installation
  • Recommend ways to protect your plumbing

Each homeowner is responsible for ensuring their home’s plumbing is in good condition.


Will I need to do anything after the installation?

No, the meter installation process is designed to be hands-off for residents. The contractor will handle all installation steps and notify you if any follow-up is necessary.


Can I read the meter myself, and how will it impact my usage awareness?

Yes, radio-read meters can provide information on your water usage. With metering, you may become more aware of your consumption, and any potential leaks may be easier to detect.


What should I do if I experience problems after the installation?

If you notice any issues following installation, use the emergency contact information provided in the notification letter to reach the contractor.


How will the information from my meter be used?

The data collected will help the SRD identify water use trends, detect leaks, and better understand overall system demand. Individual usage data will remain confidential and only be used for billing and system maintenance purposes.


Who should I contact with more questions?

If you have further questions, please contact the SRD Engineering Department at 250-830-6719   |   engineering@srd.ca