Meter FAQs
Know exactly what to expect when it comes to your meter and its reading by studying up on our most frequently asked meter-related questions.
When is my water meter read?
We read all meters in the system every month; efforts are made to read your meter on the same day each month. The date your meter was read is printed on your water bill and your meter will likely be read on the same date next month, be advised that weather conditions and other events may affect the reading schedule.
Why do I need to have someone at my home to have the water turned on?
We have no way to know if a faucet has been left open or if a pipe may be broken inside your home or business. Providing access allows us to avoid unnecessary damage or high bills.
Who do I call if my meter is leaking?
You should call the meter shop during business hours at 304.424.8544 or after hours call 304.424.8532. If the meter is inside, someone will need to be home to provide access to the meter. Please be sure to provide contact information (phone number) so we may contact you to schedule an appointment and to verify that both parties are available to meet.
Do I need to be at home to have my meter changed?
If the meter is inside your home, you will need to have someone home. If the meter is outside in a pit where we have access you do not need to be home.
What should I do if I receive a higher than normal bill?
We attempt to verify meter readings that show a higher than normal consumption and notify customers of the condition. You may also read the meter yourself. The face of the meter contains a space very similar to the odometer on a car. Compare these numbers to the numbers on your bill. Your new set of numbers should be slightly higher than the numbers on your bill. If the reading was correct, you should begin checking for a leak. Be sure that no water is being used in your home, check the triangle indicator on the meter face, if it is moving you have a leak.
Why was my bill estimated?
Occasionally, it is impossible to read a meter at the scheduled time, usually due to inclement weather conditions. In such cases, an estimated bill is rendered based on the average consumption for the same period in the prior year. An estimated bill may be a little higher or lower if actual usage was abnormal, however, the next actual reading will automatically adjust for any variation in the estimate.
To Help Improve Accuracy and Efficiency:
- Residential water and wastewater bills are generated from monthly readings taken by meter readers from the Meter Services Department. With hundreds of meters to read daily, your meter reader must be able to quickly access your water meter to insure accurate and timely readings so that your utility account will be charged correctly. Every time a meter reader can get a quick and accurate reading on the first visit to a property, it helps keep utility costs down and rates stable for everyone. It is important to be considerate of your meter reader by insuring that your water meter is easily accessible.
- Cut back grass, weeds, shrubs, bushes, or trees that cover or block the way to the meter. Avoid planting flowers, trees, and shrubbery that will impede the way to the meter. Having to tiptoe around delicate plants or flowers can be difficult and time consuming for your meter reader who does not want to damage your special garden treasures.
- Don’t forget your meter in the fall and winter months. A meter can easily become hidden under a pile of fallen leaves. When removing leaves from your property, remember to keep your meter clear and accessible. During the winter as you clear ice and snow from sidewalks and driveways, be sure your meter is also uncovered and easy to find.
- Do not place objects in the way of the meter vault. This includes: automobiles, trailers, boats, garbage cans, construction equipment, piles of dirt, gravel, mulch, lumber and other building supplies. Also, if the meter is located behind a gate or fence, arrange access for the meter reader prior to the actual time of the reading.
- Make sure pets are secured and not obstructing access to the meter vault. Although your pet may seem friendly to you, the meter reader is a stranger and his/her presence in your pet’s “territory” may provoke an unwelcome response. If you have a pet that you use for security, please confine the pet during the day when your meter is to be read.
- It is always a good idea to ensure that your home address is clearly displayed. This is important not only for the meter reader, but also for emergency personnel who may need to find your home quickly.