Though above-ground road resurfacing and transit improvements tend to get most of the public’s attention, the City of Toronto continues to overhaul its underground water systems.

After neglecting essential water infrastructure for generations, we are now playing catch-up to deliver clean water to residents in an efficient and environmentally friendly way. Critical to this infrastructure renewal is the installation of automated water meters in homes and businesses. A six-year project to install such meters across Toronto is underway,  reaching Ward 15 just last month.

Under this mandatory program, approximately 474,000 customers across the city will have existing meters replaced or a new one installed. The new devices automatically transmit water meter readings to the city for billing, eliminating the need for residents to submit them or for city staff to obtain them by entering homes.

Bills will now be based on actual water use. Formerly, residents were often billed on estimates, which could lead to higher-than-expected bills. Therefore, ensure that your home’s plumbing is in good working order because you may be charged for water flow resulting from leaks.

Watch your mailbox for more details about this program. Installers will only be in our area for two weeks, so it is important to schedule an appointment as soon as you receive your orange Appointment Notice Booklet.

For now, here are some simple tips that can help you conserve water, be more efficient and save money. Visit toronto.ca/watereff to learn more.