Apartment water submetering means tracking water use in each unit separately. This way, tenants only pay for the water they use, making it a fair system for both renters and building owners.
In this article, we'll go over the benefits of apartment water submetering for both tenants and property owners. We'll also cover how to set up the system in your building.
Understanding Water Submetering
Water submetering works when a building’s plumbing allows for individual water meters in each unit. This lets you track each tenant’s water usage data accurately.
But in many apartment buildings, the plumbing isn’t set up for submeters. The problem is that apartments don’t have their own water mains. That means there’s no easy way to measure each unit’s water use separately.
In the past, building owners couldn’t submeter if their apartments didn’t have separate water mains. But now, new solutions make it possible to submeter any building, no matter the plumbing setup.
Submetering lets you bill tenants for the exact amount of water they use, which is much fairer than splitting the total water bill among everyone. This method, known as ratio utility billing (RUBS), doesn’t always reflect individual usage.
RUBS takes a one-size-fits-all approach, which can be unfair to tenants. That’s why it’s illegal in many places. Submetering, on the other hand, lets tenants pay for what they actually use, encouraging them to save water and lower their bills.
Many building owners without separate water mains think RUBS is their only option—but that’s no longer true.
What Water Submetering Offers Property Owners and Managers
Now, let's talk about the main reasons why apartment water submetering makes total sense for you to invest in. Here are a few of its benefits:
Makes Your Property More Valuable
Adding a submetering system makes your building more appealing to renters and buyers who want fair billing and eco-friendly living. It can also boost your property’s value. Since tenants cover their own water costs, you’ll see a higher net operating income (NOI), which can help with financing and resale.
Supports Sustainability Goals
Submetering helps tenants track their water use so they waste less. This is great for the environment and helps you attract renters who care about eco-friendly living.
Lowers Your Costs
When tenants pay for their own water, they use less. This reduces overall water use, including in shared areas, which lowers your building’s operating costs.
Helps Catch Leaks Early
A sudden spike in water use can mean a leak. With submetering, you can catch these problems before they cause expensive repairs or high bills. Fixing leaks early also helps keep tenants happy.
Prevents Water Damage
Leaks can ruin walls, floors, and ceilings. With submetering, you can spot unusual water use quickly and stop problems before they cause serious damage. This protects your building and saves you money on repairs.
Reduces Billing Disputes
Flat-rate billing can lead to arguments when tenants feel they’re paying more than their fair share. With submetering, each tenant pays for their own use, so there’s no confusion or disputes over water bills.
Saves on Energy Costs
Submetering also helps manage hot water use. When tenants are more aware of their water habits, they use less hot water, which cuts down on energy costs for the entire building.
Why Water Submetering Helps You Keep Tenants
Water submetering comes with many benefits that can make your property more appealing to tenants.
Tenants Pay Only for What They Use
Nobody likes paying for someone else’s water. With submetering, tenants only pay for their own use. This makes billing fair, which helps keep tenants happy and encourages them to stay longer. Less turnover means fewer vacancies and lower costs for you.
Tenants Use Less Water
When people pay for their own water, or even just the fact that they know that their apartment usage is being monitored, it makes them inclined to conserve water. This can lower the total water use of tenants in your building, which is good for the environment and helps keep your overall utility costs down.
Many renters appreciate living in a place that values conservation.
Lower Utility Costs Make Your Property More Appealing
With submetering, tenants have control over their water bills. When they can manage their own costs, they’re more likely to feel satisfied and stay longer. A property with fair, predictable costs is more attractive than one with shared utility bills.
It Attracts Responsible Renters
Tenants who pay for their own utilities tend to be more mindful of their usage. This means less waste and more on-time payments, making your job as a property owner easier.
Modern Features Make Your Property Stand Out
Today’s submetering systems give tenants real-time updates on their water use. They can catch leaks or high usage early, avoiding surprises on their bills. This kind of technology makes your property feel up-to-date and tenant-friendly, helping you stay ahead of the competition.
Implementing Water Submetering In Your Apartment
Before you start, it's important to know the key steps—here are things you need to consider during implementation.
Equipment and Technology
Before installing water submeters in an apartment complex, take a close look at your building’s water system. Check how water flows through the property and identify any challenges that might come up.
Even if it seems like submetering won’t work in your building, there are solutions designed for all kinds of properties.
Choosing the right equipment is important. Look for reliable submetering systems that provide accurate readings and work well with your plumbing.
Compare different vendors to find the best fit for your property. The goal is to install a system that lasts and helps you manage water usage more efficiently.
Installation Requirements
Installing submeters isn’t always simple, but understanding the process makes it easier. First, check if each apartment has its own water line. This will determine how the meters need to be installed.
You might need professional help from a plumber or technician who specializes in submetering.
However, some systems are easy to install, and your maintenance team might be able to handle the job.
Choosing the right system can save time and reduce installation costs.
Initial Investment
Before making a decision, consider the upfront costs of buying and installing submeters. The price can vary depending on the type of system you choose and the complexity of your building’s plumbing.
Think about your return on investment (ROI) before committing. Submetering can lead to long-term savings by reducing water waste and ensuring tenants pay only for what they use.
Long-Term Financial Benefits
Submetering isn’t just about tracking water use—it’s also a smart investment. Over time, it can lower utility costs, reduce water waste, and even increase property value.
If you start with the latest technology, you won’t have to upgrade as often. A well-planned system can serve your property for years without major replacements or repairs.
Compliance With Local Regulations
Before installing submeters, research local laws and regulations. Some cities and states have specific rules about submetering, and you’ll need to make sure you’re following them.
You may also need permits or approvals before starting the installation. Checking these details in advance prevents legal issues and avoids unnecessary delays.
Evaluating Plumbing Systems
Your existing plumbing plays a big role in submetering. A detailed inspection will help determine if your system is compatible with submeters or if modifications are needed.
Some buildings may require plumbing upgrades before installation. Identifying these needs early helps avoid surprises and ensures the system works properly from day one.
Planning and Coordination
Installing submeters takes planning. Create a timeline that causes as little disruption to tenants as possible. If you plan carefully, the process can be smooth and efficient.
Some systems require professional installation, while others can be set up by your maintenance team.
Choose a solution that fits your budget and minimizes downtime.
Communication With Tenants
Keeping tenants informed is key to a successful submetering project. Let them know why submeters are being installed and how it will affect their water bills.
Hold meetings or send out clear, easy-to-read updates. When tenants understand the benefits, they’re more likely to support the change. Keep them updated throughout the installation so there are no surprises.
How DrizzleX Can Help You With Apartment Water Submetering
You can use DrizzleX to submeter any building, even if there aren’t separate water mains for each apartment. If you want to bill tenants for their actual water use, this system could be a great fit.
Even if you don’t plan to charge tenants for water, DrizzleX can still help. It spots hidden leaks, like running toilets and dripping faucets, so you stop wasting water. It also alerts you when tenants use too much.
Most buildings with DrizzleX cut their water bills by 25-45% or more.
And the best part? You’ll likely see a return on investment (ROI) fast. On average, buildings save enough to cover the full cost of DrizzleX in about nine months.
Request your free quote now and discover how DrizzleX makes water tracking simple for your property.
Easy to Install
No need for special technicians. Your maintenance team can handle the installation.
Water Usage Reports
DrizzleX provides the Water Consumption Insights Report. Many people don’t realize how much water they waste. This report gives clear data on the actual water usage of your tenants so you can talk to them about their water habits and show them the numbers.
Detects Hidden Leaks
Leaks aren’t always easy to find. Some are obvious during inspections, but silent leaks only show up on your water bill. DrizzleX helps you track water flow in your building so you know exactly where water is being lost.
Instant Email Alerts
When DrizzleX detects a leak, it sends an email alert to you or your maintenance team. The email includes:
The exact apartment and fixture causing the issue
How many gallons have been wasted
The cost if it’s not fixed
Possible causes and solutions
Fair Tenant Billing
DrizzleX makes it easy to bill tenants based on their actual water use. When tenants pay for their own water, they tend to use less. You can generate accurate bills and charge them fairly.
FAQs About Apartment Water Submetering
What is a submeter in an apartment?
A water sub-meter is a small device that measures how much water an individual unit uses in an apartment building. It works separately from the main meter, allowing property owners to accurately track water consumption for each tenant. This helps monitor usage and makes it easier to bill residents based on what they actually use instead of splitting water costs evenly across all units.
How do apartments determine water usage?
Apartments track water consumption in a few ways. Some use a ratio utility billing system (RUBS), which estimates each unit’s share based on factors like square footage or the number of occupants. Others install submetering solutions, allowing them to accurately track usage in individual units. Submetering is often preferred because it helps property owners bill tenants more fairly and reduces overall water utility costs.
What are the disadvantages of submetering?
While submetering solutions help control water costs and improve property value, there are some downsides. Installing a water sub-meter in every unit requires upfront costs, and some older buildings may need expensive plumbing upgrades. If tenants don’t report leaks or plumbing issues, they might end up with high bills. Property owners also need to manage billing and maintenance, which can add to their workload.
What is the purpose of a water submeter?
A water submeter helps property owners and tenants monitor usage in individual units. Accurately tracking water consumption ensures tenants pay for only what they use instead of sharing costs with neighbors. This not only reduces water utility costs but can also improve net operating income for landlords by making billing more precise. Over time, submetering solutions can lead to better water conservation and lower overall utility costs for the entire property.
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