Water Meters

How do I find my water meter?

There is no easy answer to this question. However, generally, water meters are found in the front left or right hand side of the property, usually within one meter of the front and side boundary. Some water meters are in pits in the ground and some are at the rear of the property if it is connected to a lane. It is the property owners responsibility to ensure the water meter is accessible. If you can't find the water meter Council is happy to arrange for an Officer to locate it for you.

Who owns the water meter?

Council owns the water meter but it is the responsibility of the property owner to ensure that it is accessible for reading.

What if the water meter is leaking?

Report the leak to Council who will arrange for an Officer to repair the leak.

Can I move the water meter?

Yes, but this work must be done by a licenced plumber who must have a Plumbing Permit to do the work. Other approvals may be required.

How much will it cost to move my water meter?

Council does not provide this service. Your plumber can provide a cost for this service.

Who installs water meters?

There are two types of water meter. Master Meters and Unit Meters. Council only installs Master Meters. Plumbers only install Unit Meters.

Where can I purchase a Master Meter?

Most properties already have a Master Meter. If your property doesn't have a Master Meter you can pay for one at the Mullumbimby Council Administration Centre. You will be issued with an orange Water Meter Connection Form. Give this form to your plumber. Your plumber will then make arrangements for Council's Water Supply Officer to connect the water meter.

Why can't my plumber connect the Master Meter.

It is very important to Council that the Master Meter is installed on the correct property. Plumbers are not permitted to install Master Water Meters.

What are Unit Meters?

Unit Meters are privately owned water meters installed by the plumber. Unit Meters are used to measure water consumption in separately occupied entities. For example Strata Units, Flats, Commercial Properties, Industrial Complexes and Community Title Subdivisions.

Do Council read the Unit Meters?

Yes, provided they are accessible, and are operational.

What if the Unit Meters can't be read?

If the Unit Meters are inaccessible or do not function properly Council will only read the Master Meter. It is the property owner's responsibility to ensure the Unit Metering is working effectively.

Why does Council only permit one type of Unit Metering system?

There are many types of unit metering. However, Council requires a single uniform system otherwise the cost of equipment used to read the meters would become too prohibitive.

Where can I purchase the Unit Meters?

Currently, Unit Meters must be purchased from Council. Payment is made at the Mullumbimby Council Administration Centre. It will then take approximately 3-4 weeks for the equipment to be delivered to the Council Depot in Byron Bay. Once the equipment arrives your plumber will be notified who can then come and pick it up.

My property doesn't have a water connection. How do I get one?

You may not be within the town water scheme and there may not be a water main near your property. In any case, if you don't currently have a connection to the water supply system you may need to pay a Contribution Fee before a connection can be made. Contribution Fees are set out in Councils Fee's and Charges.