So that we can bill you accurately, we need to read your water meter every three months.
Before we can read your water meter, we need to be able to access it safely. If we can’t, we may ask you to read the meter or we’ll estimate your meter reading based on previous usage. If we need to estimate your reading, we’ll show this on your bill.
You can help make sure your water meter is safe and easy to access by:
cutting back plants and clearing debris around the meter
digging out the area if the meter is buried
keeping your dog in an area away from the meter in the week it’s scheduled to be read.
If your meter is behind a locked gate or fence, we recommend you use a fire industry standard 003 lock and key or a key safe or lock with a code. You can then contact us with the code at the time the meter reader needs access.
You can also contact us to discuss the option of moving the meter to a more accessible place. This would require the services of a licensed plumber at your cost.
Another option is having us install a remote reader at your site. The remote reader will wirelessly transmit meter reads so that our meter reading staff do not need to enter your property. The one-off installation cost will be added to your water bill.
If we ask you to read the meter, please follow the steps below.
Reading your own water meter
Without a meter reading, we may need to estimate your bill based on your past usage. Before we estimate your bill, we might ask you to read your own meter and send us the results for accuracy.
You may also need to read your own meter to:
check whether there’s a leak that’s costing you money
check how much water you’re using.
How to read your water meter
Find your water meter. It should be at the front of your property (they’re often near your garden tap).
When you’ve found your meter, write down all the black numbers against the white background (if there are red numbers or numbers against a red background, ignore them). This gives your reading in kilolitres.
Next, write down the meter number. Meter numbers usually start with the letters M or MA.
Finally, send us your meter reading.
Give us your meter reading
If you’ve received an estimated bill, you can contact us with your meter reading and number.
Send us your meter reading online through your My GWW account.
We're available Monday to Friday between 8:30am and 5pm, except public holidays.
