How Installing Water Submeters Saves Property Owners Money
September 24th, 2025When it comes to running a multifamily property, one of the biggest ongoing expenses is water.
From long showers and running sinks to toilets and washing machines, usage can vary drastically from one resident to another. Without a system in place to measure individual consumption, property owners often end up eating the cost, or worse, passing on expenses unfairly across tenants.
That’s where water submetering comes in. By installing submeters in each unit, property owners can measure water output directly. The result? Fair billing, reduced waste, and substantial savings year after year.
Why “Splitting the Bill” Isn’t Fair
A single person living in a one-bedroom apartment uses far less water than a family of four in the unit next door. Even if you prorate costs by square footage or number of rooms, the single resident ends up subsidizing their neighbor’s heavier usage.
This not only feels unfair to tenants, but it can also lead to higher turnover and complaints (and who wants that?).
Why Multifamily Properties Need Water Submetering
On average, properties with water submetering see a 20–30% reduction in water usage.
Why? When residents are billed for their own consumption, they become more mindful of unnecessary waste (hello, shorter showers). That translates into lower utility bills for the property and happier tenants who know they’re only paying their fair share.
ROI of Installing Water Submeters in Multifamily Housing
While there is an upfront cost to installing water submeters, the return on investment (ROI) is undeniable. After the initial install, the savings begin immediately and continue for years to come. In most cases, owners start to see noticeable benefits within the first year, with full ROI shortly after.
Imagine saving 25% (that’s the average savings!) on your water bill across 100 units. That’s tens of thousands of dollars annually!
When Will You See the Benefits of Water Submetering?
| Time After Installation: | What You’ll Notice: |
| 1–3 Months | Immediate drop in overall usage as residents adjust habits |
| 6 Months | Detectable savings on water bills and early ROI indicators |
| 12 Months | Consistent 20–30% savings, with ROI fully realized in many cases |
| 2+ Years | Ongoing annual savings with virtually no additional costs |
Why Property Owners Nationwide Trust Flowrite Metering
With over three decades of nationwide experience, Flowrite Metering has helped property owners and managers maximize their savings while handling:
- Ordering and shipping products
- Water, electric, and/or gas installation
- Working with your maintenance team if needed
That way, you can focus on the many other responsibilities that come with managing a multifamily property.
Contact us today to learn how submetering can transform your property’s bottom line.