Can I move my water meter?
Often, yes. Water meters are moved for new driveways, fences, paths and pools, or simply because they're in an awkward spot. But the meter belongs to Sydney Water, so it can't just be dug up and shifted. It must be moved by a licensed plumber, to a position that meets Sydney Water's requirements. Here's what's involved.
Common reasons to move a meter
New driveway
A meter in the path of a new or widened driveway needs to be moved before concrete is poured.
Fence or wall
New front fences often clash with the meter's clearance.
Hard to access
Meters behind gates, down side paths or under structures.
Old water service
Replacing a corroded galvanised service is a good time to put the meter in the right place.
Where it can go
Sydney Water's meter policy places the meter's inlet pipe between 300 mm and 1 metre inside the front boundary, about 600 mm from the side boundary, with 300 mm clear space around it and the pipes about 300 mm above the ground. We'll plan a position that fits your project and meets those requirements. See meter more than 1 m from the boundary.
What's involved
- Planning the new position and any requirements with Sydney Water.
- Running new pipe from the connection to the new meter position.
- Setting the meter assembly on risers, with a new main shut-off valve and the right backflow protection.
- Connecting to your house pipes and testing for leaks.
You get a fixed price before any work starts. Talk to us before the concreter or fencer arrives, so the meter is moved in the right order.
In southern Eastern Suburbs homes
Narrow front yards in Matraville, Maroubra and Kingsford often have the meter right where a new driveway or fence needs to go. Moving it first saves breaking up new concrete later.
Why locals call us
- Local to Matraville and the southern Eastern Suburbs
- Free on-site quotes, with a fixed price before any work starts
- Lifetime labour warranty on our workmanship
- 100+ five-star Google reviews
- Licensed plumbers and gasfitters (Lic. 398171C)
Common questions
Can I move my water meter myself?
No. The meter belongs to Sydney Water and must only be moved by a licensed plumber to their requirements.
Can a water meter be moved for a driveway?
Yes, commonly. It should be done before the driveway is built.
Where can my water meter be moved to?
Generally close to the front boundary, with clear space around it, as set out in Sydney Water's meter policy.
Does moving a water meter mean the water is off?
Only for a short time while the new connection is made.
Related help: water meter guide, meter boundary rules, meter clearance and buried water meters. Local pages: Matraville, Maroubra, Kingsford and Pagewood.