Does a MF building require an extra meter for common areas

[John Anderson]

I have a very large 4-unit building with knob & tube electric wires so I want to rewire the building.  However, there is only 4 meters in the building & none for the common area.  The common area consists of 2 hallway lights that are rarely used & 2 basement lights that are never used.  

The electrician I spoke with today said adding a 5th meter for the common area would cost about $5,000.  I am fine paying the +$12,000 to rewire the building but the extra meter seems excessive.  He recommended that I break up the lights to the other 4 circuits.  I understand that might be an issue if a tenant finds out.  I am undecided on if it's best to pull permits & unsure of how I want to move forward.

Would love to hear advice.  Thanks.