A water meter is a device that measures the amount of water used in a building that is supplied by the public water supply system. The water meter tracks total household water usage. Water meters are typically located in the basement where water service enters the home or building.
Water meters can be beneficial because the customer only pays for the water they use. They can also help property owners be more accountable for water consumption, help reduce daily water usage, and lead to better leak detection and repair.
For Water/Waste Water Billing questions, please contact Service Timmins at 705-264-1331 or visit the Service Timmins Customer Portal: service.timmins.ca
On this page:
1. How are the water meters read?
3. Who pays for the water meter?
4. Who is responsible for the water meter?
6. How can I purchase a water meter?
How are the water meters read?
Water meters are typically read manually, by remote laser, or through the transmission of a cellular signal.
Who pays for the water meter?
The City of Timmins pays for the meter and the installation of the meter and required fittings.
Who is responsible for the water meter?
Installation and replacement of the meter when it has reached end of life is the responsibility of the City. If the meter is or becomes faulty, the City is responsible for its maintenance or replacement.
The Property Owner is responsible to ensure the water meter is not damaged and that the area in which the meter is located is heated to avoid freezing. Any repairs or damages caused in such a way will be charged to the Property Owner.
No adjustments or reductions can be made to your water bill due to excessive water usage. Small home repair concerns like a leaking or running toilet, leaking faucets, leaking washing machine or dishwasher can have a dramatic impact on a property owner’s quarterly water bill, and are the responsibility of the Property Owner to fix.
Note for landlords:
For property owners with rental units on a water meter system, it is important that tenants practice sensible water use and communicate any potential water concerns quickly so that repairs can be made.
What are the benefits of using a water meter?
Water meters can be beneficial because the customer only pays for the water they use. They can also help property owners be more accountable for water consumption and help reduce daily water usage. Water meters can also lead to better leak detection and repair
Residents that own a home with a large number of rooms (5 or more) or multiple units can potentially benefit from being on a water meter if they are careful with water consumption. There is a minimum quarterly charge for a water meter that is very close to the cost of a 4 room home; therefore, homes of 4 rooms or less would not benefit from being on a water meter.
How can I request or switch to a water meter?
The City of Timmins is currently replacing all existing water meters. If you are interested in changing to a metered water system, you may contact Service Timmins at 705-264-1331 to submit your request and be put on a waiting list until the next available installation period.