Changes to the water meter relocation process now in effect

This announcement is for: 
BuilderBuilding surveyorElectrical contractor / workerGas workerPermit authorityPlumber
Water Corporation, in consultation with Building and Energy, made changes to their water meter relocation process as of 29 April 2020.
 
The changes are designed to better align processes with water services legislation and plumbing regulations, as well as to improve safety when working on or near Water Corporation assets.
 
Key changes to the water meter relocation process:
  • The customer will need to engage a licensed plumber to relocate all the internal pipework (for all meter relocations) prior to Water Corporation relocating the meter. Relocating internal pipework will come at the customer’s own cost. Water Corporation will not be able to relocate the water meter if the internal pipework has not been relocated.
  • The customer will work with the plumber to determine a suitable and compliant location for the meter (see requirements below) and the internal pipework will be relocated to that new location.
Things to consider when choosing a new location:
  • Sufficient clearance is required all the way around (300mm) and above (1200mm) the new water meter position. The meter is to be within 1500mm of the front boundary line. Water Corporation is to have suitable access to read, repair and replace the meter as required.
  • The new meter location is to be free of any hazards or obstructions, bushes, trees, or retaining walls. Pipework is not to be encased with brick paving or concrete.
  • At least 2000mm clearance is to be provided from a transformer box. Western Power’s exclusion zone is to be considered if the proposed new meter location is near a power dome (see Meter Relocations near power domes).
  • More information regarding clearances and requirements can be found on the Water Corporation website.
Risks involved with relocating a water meter:
  • Changes to internal plumbing can affect the existing electrical earthing in a property. Licenced plumbers must consider if planned plumbing changes will affect the existing earthing system. If so, they must:
  • Be aware of electrical hazards associated with metallic pipework.
  • Engage a licenced electrician to check that the earthing system will comply with   Electrical Regulations prior to the commencement of any water supply plumbing work.
Any questions relating to these changes can be emailed directly to Water Corporation at building.services@watercorporation.com.au.
Building and Energy
Department News
11 May 2020

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