watermeter

Is your water consumption higher than usual? If it is, we recommend you:

If neither of these results in an explanation for the higher usage, you can request for your water meter to be tested using the tests explained below.

What is an on-site water meter test?

An on-site water meter test involves an Urban Utilities technician attending your property and testing the accuracy of your water meter. This test can only be conducted on 20mm and 25mm water meters.

It takes approximately one hour to complete, and you can be present while the water meter is tested. If you would like to be present at the test, we will contact you to arrange a time that is suitable for you to have our technician attend your property.

How much does an on-site water meter test cost?

The cost of an on-site water meter test is $268.00. This includes a $91.00 call out charge. Payment must be received prior to the test being carried out. You will be advised of the outcome of the water meter test within 10 working days from the date we receive your payment and completed application.

If a leak is detected on your property during the on-site water meter test, the water meter test cannot be completed. We will advise you of this and you may wish to call a plumber to locate and repair the leak. The water meter test fee will be refunded to you excluding the $91.00 call out charge. Once the leak is repaired you may wish to reapply for a meter test.

How do I arrange an on-site water meter test?

To arrange an on-site water meter test call us on 13 26 57 (8am-6pm weekdays) or download an on-site water meter test application form.

What is an ultrasonic on-site water meter test?

An on-site water meter test involves an Urban Utilities technician attending your property and testing the accuracy of your water meter. This test can only be conducted on 50mm water meters and greater, and not all meters are compatible with this type of test.

It takes approximately one to two hours to complete, and you can be present while the water meter is tested. If you would like to be present at the test, we will contact you to arrange a time that is suitable for you to have our technician attend your property.

This test is not accredited by the National Association Testing Authorities (NATA).

How much does an ultrasonic on-site water meter test cost?

The cost of an on-site water meter test is $627.00. This includes an $91.00 call out charge. Payment must be received prior to the test being carried out. You will be advised of the outcome of the water meter test within 20 working days from the date we receive your payment and completed application.

If a leak is detected on your property during the on-site water meter test, the water meter test cannot be completed. We will advise you of this and you may wish to call a plumber to locate and repair the leak. The water meter test fee will be refunded to you excluding the $91.00 call out charge. Once the leak is repaired you may wish to reapply for a meter test.

What is a laboratory water meter test?

A laboratory water meter test involves an Urban Utilities technician removing your water meter and referring it for testing to an independent testing laboratory accredited by the National Association Testing Authorities (NATA).

At the time your water meter is removed for testing, it will be replaced with a new water meter.

How much does a laboratory water meter test cost?

The cost depends on the size of the water meter.

If you are unsure of the size of the meter to be tested, please contact us on 13 26 57 (8am – 5pm weekdays).

Payment must be received prior to the test being carried out.

2023-2024 Prices:

Size Fee/charge (GST inclusive*)

Laboratory testing of 20mm water meters

$370.00
Laboratory testing of 25mm water meters
$481.00
Laboratory testing of 32mm water meters
$683.00
Laboratory testing of 40mm water meters
$874.00
Laboratory testing of 50mm water meters
$1,365.00
Laboratory testing of 80mm water meters
$1,522.00
Laboratory testing of 100mm water meters
$1,823.00
Laboratory testing of 150mm water meters
$2,437.00

We will send you a confirmation letter once your meter test has been booked. The letter will include the name of the testing laboratory, and the response time frame.

Where will my meter be tested?

We have arrangements in place with two independent NATA accredited laboratories to conduct the testing.  Prices vary between the two laboratories, and the prices quoted above are for the most economical option.

If you would like pricing for the other laboratory, please call us on 13 26 57 (8am – 6pm weekdays).  If you wish to nominate which laboratory you would prefer to conduct the testing, you may do so through our laboratory water meter test application form or by calling us on 13 26 57 (8am – 6pm weekdays). The names and contact details of the laboratories will be provided to you upon request.. 

Can I attend the meter test laboratory?

By law, a customer, or customer’s nominee, may be present during the water meter test. If you would like to attend the laboratory while your water meter is being tested, this can be arranged.

You will need to cover all required travel and accommodation costs, and the laboratory may require you to undertake a safety induction upon arrival at the facility. For the purposes of safety, you will be required to wear suitable footwear in the laboratory e.g. closed toe shoes.

If you choose to be present during your water meter test, we will provide your contact details to the laboratory to assist you in arranging your visit.

To attend the laboratory for your meter testing, please call us on 13 26 57 (8am – 5pm weekdays).

You will be advised of the outcome of the test within 20 working days from the date we receive your payment and completed application.

Further information regarding meter testing can be found in the South-East Queensland Water (Distribution and Retail) Restructuring Act 2009 (Qld) at

What happens if my meter is found to be faulty?

If a water meter test has been completed, and the water meter test readings register outside the required margin of plus or minus 5% of the correct amount of water supplied, the meter is deemed to be faulty.

If the meter is found to be faulty, we will:

  • refund the test fee (but not any associated travel or accommodation costs)
  • review the water use accounts issued in the previous year
  • adjust the accounts, if necessary.