Nelson Bakewell website

Management of the Long Leashold Blocks is now performed by Douglas and Gordon

Flush or Skint?

Recently, I thought Id see whether it was worth my having a water meter installed. You see, Im a single tenant and Id found out a water meter could save me about £100 a year.* I knew that Thames Water offer free surveys and free meter installation, so I gave them a call (0845 9200 888). The guy arrived on time, was friendly, and finished the job in five minutes. So far, so good! However, although usually no changes need to be made, the guy said that in my case, in order to accommodate the meter, Id need a plumber to move the stopcock about six inches vertically. Plus, given the terms of my lease, Id need to get permission from Nelson Bakewell beforehand. I put out feelers, but Nelson Bakewell werent keen. TNRA suggested that the matter could be aired in the newsletter to see if other people are interested in having the option to have water meters fitted. Hence this little article!

As well as all the environmental issues relating to conservation of water, theres a good economic argument that should appeal to many people: if you do fit a meter, then you have a way to monitor your water use and can attempt to reduce your water use Ë and bills Ë accordingly. Thames Water also state that you can change back to unmetered bills if youre not happy with your metered bill. Plus, if you ask Thames Water to fit a meter, and its too expensive or impractical, you only have to pay their ¥average household rate (currently £143 for water plus £102 for waste). So, either way, you only stand to gain!

If youre interested in having a water meter installed, why not get in touch with TNRA. A few committed people can usually make a good case for change!

Lawrence Moon
Flat 6, 2 Trinity Church Square

See www.thameswateruk.co.uk

From a very small survey, TNRA can confirm that for two similar houses on the estate, each with two occupants, the one with a water meter pays nearly £100 pa less than the one still paying water rate Ë a saving of about one-third.

Please let us know:

• if you have a water meter and know how much it is saving you;
• If you would like to have a water meter (if permitted by the landlords).