Water meter tampering

[B R]

During a recent "safety inspection" of our sfh rental, I noticed the water meter was upside down. The plumbers had been in when we first bought the place 11 months ago, and had re-done everything, including re-installing the meter. The work was still under warranty, so they came out and turned it the right way a couple days ago.

Here's what I learned from the plumber: renters are notorious for tampering with meters, which operate on a paddle wheel. Turning them around doesn't stop the wheel turning, but slows it down. Therefore, renters can get away with lower water bills until they are caught.

So now we don't know if it was an error by the plumber or the tenant was misbehaving. Another good reason to have the water and all utilties in the tenant's name, and a learning experience for us.

Becky