Hazzard confirms the end of installation of water meters at domestic properties

Regulations brought forward by Infrastructure Minister Chris Hazzard to formally stop the installation of water meters in domestic properties were approved by the Assembly today.

Minister Hazzard asked NI Water to cease installation of water meters in domestic properties in July, while legislation to formalise this was brought to the Assembly.

Chris Hazzard said:

"I am pleased to announce today that the legislation to cease the installation of water meters at domestic properties in the north has completed its Assembly process.

"Installing meters currently costs the public purse around £200,000 per year. This is a waste of money given these will not be used. The legislation today will end this waste of valuable resources.

“These Regulations also reinforce the Executive’s commitment not to bring in water charging for households and demonstrates the Executive’s commitment to protecting people’s personal finances in a tough economic climate.”

Notes to editors: 

1. It costs about £40 to install each meter. With between four and five thousand new houses built each year, the additional cost incurred by NI Water is between £150,000 - £200,000 annually.
2. Media queries should be directed to the Department for Infrastructure Press Office on 028 9054 0007 or email press.office@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk. Out of office hours please contact the duty press officer via pager number 07623 974 373 and your call will be returned.
3. Follow the department on Twitter @deptinfra

Share this page