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1. Who is required to have a water meter?

All new homes in Monroe are required to have water meters installed in pits in the front yard. Older homes will probably have meters located inside the premises. Each meter is read remotely by use of radio technology. The unit that allows this technology to be used is located on the lid of the water meter pit, so please be careful while mowing or working around the pit lid to prevent damaging the read unit.

2. Can I tell if I have a leak by looking at the reading unit on my meter?

The meter dial contains a leak detector indicator. This is a small, red asterisk to the left of the center of the dial. This indicator moves even with minute amounts of water flow. If all water-using appliances are turned off and not using water, the indicator should not be moving. If it is, there is a leak somewhere in the home distribution system. It is your responsibility to have leaks repaired unless it is at the meter itself.

3. Who owns the water meters?

The meters are owned, installed, and maintained by the City of Monroe. Water meters must remain accessible at all times for reading, inspection, and removal for repairs. Meter locations must be approved by the Monroe Water Department, as are any changes in the location of the meter.

4. Will I be charged if my meter has to be upgraded?

Beginning December 31, 2012 the FCC regulations required the City to update our reading equipment including the transponders attached to the meters and in some cases, the entire meter. Instead of charging each resident for the upgrade to their meter per Ordinance 1040.04, Council adopted a $3.00 per month fee for all residential customers to fund this initial project as well as future upgrades to the meters and reading system. Commercial customers will still be billed individually for the replacement cost of their meters per the Ordinance.

5. What is Automatic Meter Reading?

AMR stands for Automatic Meter Reading. The meter uses a radio frequency signal to transmit the meter read to a receiver that is utilized by the City’s meter reading staff. 

6. Will the AMR interfere with cell phones, garage door openers, or other electronics?

No. The transmitter is fully compliant with all FCC regulations and will not interfere with any other radio signal.

7. Do I need to be home to have my water meter changed?

Yes, if the water meter is located inside your house. Someone will need to provide access to the meter. You will need to make those arrangements with us to have someone at your residence during the appointment slot.

No, if the water meter is located outside in a meter pit. We will confirm that water is not being used and proceed with the meter change out.

8. How long does it take to change out a water meter?

A normal meter replacement will typically take 15-25 minutes, however, each location is different taking into consideration the condition of the adjacent plumbing and other conflicting home improvements.

9. How do I make an appointment to have my water meter changed?

Please call the City at 513-539-7374.