Water meters in rental properties are not something people usually think about, but they require immediate attention when a water leak occurs or water charges rise sharply. From the perspective of property management staff and tenant support, this article systematically explains how to confirm the location, how to read the meter, how to respond to failures, and how to perform shutoff operations.
Where Is the Water Meter Located in a Rental Property?
The installation location of a water meter differs depending on the type of building. In management operations, it is important to understand the installation location for each property in advance.
Summary by Type of Installation Location
- Apartment: Installed inside a "water meter box" buried in the ground on the property. There is one for each unit, and the lid is labeled "Water Supply" or "Water Meter"
- Condominium: Water, gas, and electric meters are grouped inside the "pipe shaft" next to the entrance along the exterior corridor. It is usually locked
- Detached house: In many cases, it is installed in the ground near the entrance or parking area
If the location is unclear, the local water bureau can tell you if you contact them.
How Do You Read a Water Meter?
There are two types of water meters: "direct-reading" and "dial-reading."
- Direct-reading: Read the upper number counter (m3) as it is. If the pilot is spinning even though water should be stopped, there may be a leak
- Dial-reading: Read the black hands (m3) and red hands (liters) on the circular dial in order starting from the lower left
Causes of Water Meter Failures and Emergency Measures
The three main causes of failure are mechanical failure, sudden changes in water pressure, and freezing.
Failure Symptoms and How to Respond
- Meter stops rotating, reverse rotation, abnormal noise → Possible mechanical failure. Contact the water bureau
- Sharp increase in water charges → Water leak or meter malfunction. Check the pilot and report it to the management company
- Winter freezing → Occurs when insulation is insufficient. Properties in cold regions require special attention
If you find an abnormality, the basic rule is to promptly close the main shutoff valve and contact the management company or the landlord.
How to Close and Open a Water Valve
How to Operate the Main Shutoff Valve
There are two types of main shutoff valves: handle type and lever type. In both cases, turn to the right (clockwise) to close and to the left (counterclockwise) to open. When opening, fully opening the valve helps stabilize water pressure.
Shutoff Valves by Location
- Kitchen: Installed on the water supply pipe under the sink. Note the number of turns before closing it
- Toilet: Installed on the water supply pipe connected to the tank. Screwdriver-type and internal-thread types are common
- Bathroom: Installed near the faucet or on the water supply pipe. In unit baths, the main shutoff valve may be used instead
- Washbasin: Installed inside the storage space below the basin or at the base of a wall-mounted faucet
About Water Meter Replacement Work
Under the Measurement Act, water meters are replaced on an eight-year cycle. The cost is borne by each prefecture, so there is no cost to the tenant. The work takes about 10 minutes and does not require attendance, but a temporary water outage will occur.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. How should we respond if a tenant reports that "the water bill suddenly became much higher"?
First, have them check the pilot on the water meter. If the pilot is rotating while the water is shut off, there is a leak. As the management company, you should promptly arrange for a plumbing contractor and investigate the situation.
Q2. Where should the key to a condominium pipe shaft be managed?
It is recommended that the management company or the condominium association keep it and maintain a system that allows an immediate response in an emergency. It is important for multiple responsible personnel to know where the key is kept.
Q3. Should tenants be notified in advance of the schedule for water meter replacement work?
Yes. Because a temporary water outage will occur, notifying tenants in writing of the date and time in advance helps prevent trouble.
Q4. If a water leak occurs, who bears the repair cost?
As a general rule, leaks caused by building equipment and not by tenant negligence are borne by the owner. Tenant negligence, such as forgetting to turn off a faucet, is borne by the tenant. It is important to state this clearly in the contract.
Q5. In what situations can a water charge reduction program be used?
It may apply when a leak occurs in a place that cannot be seen, such as underground or under the floor, and the tenant is not at fault. Because the conditions differ by municipality, please confirm with the local water bureau.
