How to find and read your water meter
Water meters can be fitted inside or outside your home. If you've just moved in or you've not had to check your meter before, it can be difficult to find.
Outdoor water meters
Outdoor water meters are usually fitted on the public footpath. This will be outside your home at the outside stop valve. Look for a small metal or plastic cover in your driveway, garden or nearby footpath.
Indoor water meters
Indoor meters are usually fitted on the water pipe as it enters your home. This is usually near to the stop tap. It may be located under the kitchen sink or in the downstairs toilet. There is often a flap on the front of the meter which needs lifting to see the face.If you are unable to find your water meter, call us on 0345 7500 500.
Accessing your meter if it's outside
Lift the cover and underneath there may be a foam or polystyrene disc. This protects your meter from frost, so please make sure you replace it. If there's condensation on the glass gently tap it and it should clear, allowing you to take a reading.Sometimes outdoor meters can be difficult to access. For example, it may be located in the road, or the cover may be heavy. If this is the case for your meter, please do not attempt to access it. Instead contact us by calling 0345 7090 646.
Help with reading your meter
When reading your water meter, you only need to record the black numbers. Depending on the type of meter, it may have four or five black numbers. The black numbers on the meter show the amount of cubic metres of water you have used. The red numbers record tenths and hundredths of a cubic metre. We charge for every cubic metre, so you only need to record the black numbers.
For outdoor meters it can be difficult to be sure it is the right one. Check the serial number on the meter and on your bill are the same. The serial number is displayed on your bill under the heading 'Meter number'. You can also watch how to read you meter reading from Mike...