BRRRR'ing a duplex - water meter issue

[Brittney Knies]

We are BRRRR'ing our first duplex and ran into an issue with the water meter. Essentially the line was leaking between our gauge and the water meter, and we had to call Citizens here in Indianapolis to shut it off. However, when they came out to do so, they stated that because it was a duplex with two addresses (it sits on a corner lot, with one door facing each street), it needed to have two water meters. In addition, we would need to dig a meter pit (the current water meter is in the basement) and replace the 3/4" pipe with a 1" pipe to the curb stop.

We thought we would be able to just have the one meter and include water as part of the rent, but it doesn't appear as if Citizens will allow this. In addition, they are refusing to turn the water back on until we get this replaced.

My questions are:

1) Are they allowed to refuse to turn the water back on?

2) Has anyone ever had insurance cover part of this (because a portion of the damage from the water leaking in the basement was within the walls?

3) Is there a way to get around installing a second meter and continue to use the one with the 3/4" pipes?

I am highly uneducated when it comes to our rights as homeowners when it comes to utilities. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

[Brittney Knies]

Thanks, @Ross Denman and @Jeff Copeland! We are trying to get in touch with the Indiana Utilities Regulatory Commission (IURC) to see what our rights are. While I agree installing a second meter would be better, it would also cost us significant $$$ as they'd have to rerun a line to the street as well. I'll keep everyone updated on what we find so that this thread can be used as a reference going forward.