Water Meter Replacement

The City of Richmond Department of Public Utilities (DPU) is excited to announce a significant upgrade to its water meter infrastructure. The Water Meter Replacement Project initiative marks an important step in our ongoing commitment to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of our water services. This comprehensive project will replace nearly 50,000 water meters in the city. Here is what you need to know about this important upgrade and how it will benefit and affect you. 

Why We’re Replacing Water Meters 

Water meters are crucial for accurately measuring water usage and billing customers accordingly. However, like all equipment, water meters can lose their accuracy over time and need to be upgraded. The new meters will bring several improvements: 

• Enhanced Accuracy: The latest technology will ensure more precise measurements of water usage.
• Improved Efficiency: The new meters will streamline DPU’s billing and meter reading processes; thereby reducing errors and increasing efficiency. 
• Better Data Transparency: Customers will receive more accurate and detailed information about their water consumption, helping them manage water use and costs more effectively. 

The replacement of water meters is mandatory. These meters are the property of the City of Richmond and the upgrade is essential for maintaining the quality of our billing and meter reading services. Water meters will be replaced to ensure ongoing efficiency and control of operational costs. 

What to Expect During the Replacement 

The current water meter servicing each identified property will be replaced with a new model that features a digital display. This advanced technology eliminates the need for manual dials and improves the accuracy of data collection. 

Residents/businesses will not incur any cost. This upgrade is a critical part of DPU’s infrastructure investment, aimed at enhancing service efficiency without any additional charge to our customers. 

DPU will employ authorized contractors to carry out the meter replacements. For customer safety and assurance, all contractors will: 

• Carry photo identification. 

• Wear identifiable uniforms. 

• Drive vehicles marked with the City of Richmond logo or that of our authorized contractor. This information will be communicated via the door hanger. 

Any questions or concerns should be directed to the Water Meter Replacement Project email at DPUMeterProgram@rva.gov or by calling (804) 646-4646. 

Notifications and Installation Process

Impacted customers will receive a postcard approximately a month prior to the scheduled replacement, followed by a door hanger notification approximately two weeks prior. The replacement project will occur in phases, organized by geographical zones. During the installation, water service will be briefly interrupted—typically for about 30 minutes. Service will be promptly restored once the installation is complete. 

In Case of Leaks or Other Issues 

If a leak or any other problem occurs after the meter installation, please contact us immediately at (804) 646-4646. Our team is dedicated to promptly responding to resolve any concerns or issues that may arise. A technician will be dispatched to address and resolve the leak. 

We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we work to improve our water meter infrastructure. This upgrade is a crucial step towards providing more reliable and accurate water service to all our customers.   

Thank you for your continued support and patience during this process. 

• Water Meter Replacement FAQs