Single-Family Water Meter Program

About the Single-Family Water Meter Program
All single-family homes located in Richmond have been fully metered since 2018. Water meters are a fair and equitable way of charging residents for water and will reduce the overall water consumption throughout the city.

Why are water meters required?

• A meter is necessary to accurately measure water consumption.
• Water rates are based on actual consumption.
• Metered consumption creates equitable billing.
• Encourages water conservation.
• Motivates to reduce water usage.
• Gives the opportunity to reduce water bills!

How else can I benefit from this Program?

• FREE water saving devices: To help promote water conservation, all properties with a water meter can request low flow adapters for showers, toilets and sinks. These devices can save up to an additional 8% on water and sewer bills.
• First year guarantee: The City of Richmond offers a First-Year Guarantee that provides an adaptation period for the water meter. If your billing under the metered rate exceeds the flat rate over the first year, you are eligible to apply for a credit. This application must be made within 15 months of the meter installation.
• Leak adjustments: You may have a leak if your consumption is higher than normal. If your water usage increases because of a leak, you will be eligible to have your bill adjusted for up to two quarters once you fix the leak. Contact us for assistance if you suspect a leak.
• Take control of your bill: With a water meter, you can control how high your water and sewer bills are by the amount of water you use. Therefore, you will see the savings whenever you lower your water use, whether it is from going on vacation or installing low flow toilets. You will see the difference. 
• Quarterly payments: You will receive water and sewer bills four times a year on a quarterly basis. This is compared to paying the full amount for both water and sewer at the beginning of the year. There is a single base rate of $12 per quarter for a typical 3/4" meter. Therefore, with zero consumption, a homeowner will pay $48 per year.

Conservation Program
To help save water and money, the City of Richmond is offering the free water conservation devices for all properties with a water meter. These devices consist of:

• low-flow showerheads
• low-flow faucet aerators for bathroom taps
• low-flow faucet aerators for kitchen sinks with swivel neck and spray setting
• Fill Cycle Diverter (prevents excess water from flowing into overflow of the toilet tank)

Your Home's Water Meter
Homeowners are encouraged to monitor water usage. Below are helpful links:

 How to Read Your Water Meter
 Common Causes of Leaks

For More Information
See the Frequently Asked Questions or call 604-276-4179 for more details.

The City of Richmond's Tax Department handles inquiries related to water bills. Call 604-276-4145 for questions that include how and when you will be billed and the water billing rate.