What happens if my water meter is more than 1 metre from the front boundary?
Sydney Water's meter policy sets out where a meter should sit on a property: close to the front boundary, where it's easy to read and replace. Many older homes have meters further in, down a side path or near the house, because they were installed under older rules. Here's what the current requirement is, when an existing meter can stay where it is, and when it needs moving.
Where meters are meant to go
- Sydney Water's policy places the meter's inlet pipe between 300 mm and 1 metre inside the front boundary.
- It should be about 600 mm in from the side boundary.
- There should be 300 mm clear space around it, with the pipes about 300 mm above the ground.
Does an existing meter have to move?
An existing meter further inside the property isn't automatically a problem. It usually becomes an issue when:
It's hard to access
Behind a locked gate, inside a fenced yard or under a structure, so it can't be read or replaced.
Work is planned nearby
A new driveway, fence, extension or pool where the meter or its pipes are in the way.
The water service is being replaced
When the old pipe from the street is renewed, it can make sense to bring the meter to the boundary at the same time.
Sydney Water asks
If access is a problem, Sydney Water may require changes.
Moving it to the boundary
Relocating a meter means running a new water service from the connection point, setting the meter assembly in the right position, and connecting it to your house pipes, all to Sydney Water's requirements. It's a common job when an old galvanised service is being replaced anyway. We handle the process and give you a fixed price before any work starts. See can I move my water meter?
In southern Eastern Suburbs homes
Older homes in Matraville, Maroubra, Malabar and Botany often have meters down the side of the house or behind side gates. When we replace the old water service, moving the meter to the front is often the sensible upgrade.
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
How far from the boundary should a water meter be?
Sydney Water's policy places the inlet between 300 mm and 1 metre inside the front boundary.
Do I have to move my old water meter?
Not automatically. It usually needs moving if it can't be accessed or is in the way of planned work.
Who can move a water meter?
A licensed plumber, following Sydney Water's requirements.
Can my meter be behind a locked gate?
Only with access arrangements made with Sydney Water.
Related help: water meter guide, moving a water meter, water meter clearance and galvanised pipes guide. Local pages: Matraville, Maroubra, Malabar and Botany.