Can Bournemouth & West Hampshire Water compulsorily meter my new house?

Yes. Current water industry legislation (the Water Industry Act) allows the companies to install a meter when a property has a new occupier. The Act allows Bournemouth & West Hampshire Water to meter these customers without getting their consent.

Bournemouth & West Hampshire Water have contacted the estate agents and solicitors in their area to advise them of their policy to meter upon change of occupancy. The company also sends a letter to new occupiers to advise them that a meter will be fitted and measured charges will apply.

The Water Industry Act also allows companies to compulsorily meter all new properties built after 1990. This is because no Rateable Values have been given out since 1990, so the water companies are unable to apply unmetered charges.

Many customers actually receive a lower bill on a meter, as you only pay for the amount of water you use plus a small standing charge. However, larger families could see larger bills.