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1. Why is a Water Replacement Program necessary?

The replacement of meters is required due to their age and serviceability. The service life of a meter is 15-20 years. The last comprehensive meter replacement program for the Village was in 2006, before that it was in 1983-1986.

2. Why must I pay for the new meter?

The Village of Riverside policy of periodic replacement at owners’ expense has been in effect since 1983, Village Code (Ordinance 1528, 3-21-1983). Whether the meter replacement is funded by the water fund, through user rates, or by direct charges, the users of the water system ultimately pay for the installation of a new meter. Charging each user for the exact size of meter received was judged to be more equitable than having customers with smaller meters subsidize those with a larger meter or a multiple meter (e.g. lawn irrigation meters) requirement.

3. How much will the new meter cost?

Cost depends on size. If needed, this charge may be prorated over a 6 month or 1 year period. The installation crew will have the form necessary to request a prorated bill. For more information view the page Water Meters.

4. How will your meter be changed?

The water department will call you for an appointment. Saturday appointment dates will be available. On the appointment date, a crew will arrive to install a new meter and external transmitter unit. The external transmitter is a small box (4 inch x 4 inch x 6 inch) which will be placed on a wall outside your home. This transmitter will generally be installed in the location of your present external device. The whole process will take less than an hour.

5. How should I prepare?

Prior to the appointment date, make sure the meter is accessible. Boxes, enclosures, clothes, etc. should be moved away from the meter. Also, check the valves in front of and behind the meter. These valves should be turned on and off once a year. Maintaining these valves is a homeowner’s responsibility. The wire running from the meter to the external register will also be replaced. Should you wish to install conduit to enclose this wire, the conduit should be installed before the appointment date.

6. What happens if I refuse to let the village replace my meter?

As of January 1, 2008 customers who have not responded to the request for meter replacement, which requires a monthly manual read, will be subject to a meter read charge of $100 per billing period.