Property owners and managers are always looking for ways to improve efficiency and reduce costs. One solution that’s gaining popularity is submetering, which allows property owners to track individual water usage for each unit or tenant, rather than billing everyone based on a single master meter.
What Is a Submeter?
A submeter is a secondary meter installed on a property’s plumbing system to measure water usage for a specific unit, apartment or area. Instead of relying on one main water meter for the whole building, submeters track how much water each tenant or space uses. This approach is common in multi-family apartment buildings, condos, commercial properties and even some single-family homes with accessory dwelling units.
Submetering can also apply to other utilities like gas or electricity, but in the context of plumbing, it focuses on water consumption. The data collected from each submeter lets property owners or managers bill tenants based on their actual usage, rather than dividing the bill evenly or using estimates.
What are the Benefits of adding a Submeter?
Property owners who add submeters to their properties can benefit in the following ways:
- Fair and Accurate Billing: With submetering, tenants pay only for the water they actually use. This system eliminates disputes over shared water bills and ensures that each tenant is responsible for their own consumption. Fair billing increases transparency and trust between tenants and property owners.
- Encourages Water Conservation: When tenants know they are being billed for their exact water use, they are more likely to conserve water. Submetering has been shown to reduce overall water consumption in multi-unit properties. Tenants become more mindful of leaks, long showers and unnecessary water use, which benefits both the environment and your property’s utility costs.
- Detects Leaks and Plumbing Issues: Submeters can help identify leaks or plumbing problems early. If one unit’s water usage suddenly spikes, it could signal a hidden leak or faulty fixture. Early detection means faster repairs and less water wasted, saving money for both tenants and property owners.
- Attracts and Retains Tenants: Modern renters value transparency and control over their expenses. Offering submetered utilities can make your property more attractive to potential tenants. It also reduces disputes over utility costs, making for happier and longer-term residents.
- Increases Property Value: Installing submeters can add value to your property by improving efficiency and lowering operating costs. Prospective buyers and investors see submetering as a sign of proactive management and a way to future-proof the building against rising utility costs.
Call Plumbers 911 for a Submeter Referral?
Submeter installation is a specialized plumbing service that requires experience, knowledge of local codes and the right equipment. Here’s why you should call Plumbers 911 for a referral to a local plumbing contractor:
- Expertise: Plumbers 911 connects you with licensed, insured and highly trained plumbers who understand submeter installation and maintenance.
- Code Compliance: Local plumbing codes must be followed to ensure accurate billing and legal compliance. Affiliated Plumbers 911 contractors know the rules and will make sure your system is set up correctly.
- Quality Craftsmanship: Professional installation helps prevent leaks, inaccurate readings and future headaches.
- Ongoing Support: Submeters need maintenance and occasional calibration. Plumbers 911 can help you schedule regular service to keep your system running smoothly.
- Trusted Network: The plumbers employed by all contractors referred by Plumbers 911 have completed over 10,000 hours of training and passed rigorous background checks. You can trust the work will be done right the first time.
Schedule Your Submetering Service Today
If you want to help your tenants save money, improve billing accuracy and add value to your property, submetering is a smart investment.Call Plumbers 911 for a referral today!
Our affiliated licensed, bonded and insured contractors will ensure all the plumbing work is done correctly. They employ highly qualified plumbers who receive over 10,000 hours of training and undergo rigorous background checks.