Frequently Asked Questions
Town of Osoyoos Water Meter Installation Program
Welcome to the meter installation program!
I received a letter in the mail saying that I will have a meter installed…what happens next?
Neptune Technology group has been contracted by the Town of Osoyoos to install meters. Neptune will send you a letter as your turn for meter installation is coming up requesting that you contact them to book a convenient time for the installation.
Do I have to get a water meter installed on my property?
The installation of water meters is mandatory, as resolved by Osoyoos Council in March 2022. This applies to all properties receiving Town of Osoyoos water service (inside and outside of municipal boundaries).
*Note that vacant properties and rural properties currently on a well do not need to have a water meter installed at the property line.
How much does the meter and installation cost?
Meter installations that take place as part of this project are provided at no cost to the property owner. Meters installed as part of a new water connection or new build will continue to be the financial responsibility of the property owner.
When will the water meter be installed?
Installation of meters will be done in geographic sectors between approximately the end of September 2024 and the end of March 2025. Information on the exact timing for specific areas is not yet available.
Preparing for your meter
What do property owners need to do?
a) When you receive correspondence from Neptune Technologies Group (some time before late spring 2025), contact them within one week to make an appointment for meter installation. Information on how to book your appointment will be provided at this time.
* You will be asked for details about the location of waterlines and shut-offs on your property at this time.
b) Ensure your water shut-off valve is operational and accessible with a clearance area of at least 16” wide by 16” high.
I already have a meter. Will anything change?
Properties with existing meters may be contacted by Neptune Technology Group and assessed to see if any modifications to the meter are required. If so, make an appointment and clear access as above.
I live in a strata complex. Will I get an individual meter?
Most strata complexes will have a single meter installed, so individual property owners may not be contacted further about installation of the water meters.
Installation day
Can I install the water meter myself?
No, Neptune is responsible for performing all installations. A qualified technician will install the meter on your incoming water service.
How do I know the technician is an authorized agent of Neptune Technology Group?
Every authorized Neptune technician is uniformed and carries identification including name, picture and an ID number.
Do I need to be at home during the installation?
Yes, someone over the age of 18 needs to be at the property during the installation.
How long will my water be shut off for?
It is estimated that most installations will take between 1 and 3 hours, and the water shut off time could be less than that.
After meter installation
How do I read my meter?
Shine a flashlight over the solar panel on the meter to activate the LCD display. The display will switch between the flow rate and total consumption every six seconds.
What rate will I pay for metered water?
Water rates for properties with meters will not change immediately. The Town of Osoyoos will notify water customers when the transition to metered rates is going to take place.
Who is responsible for maintaining the meter?
The Town of Osoyoos is responsible for any future water meter maintenance, provided that property owners take reasonable precautions to prevent damage to it. It is not lawful to tamper with water meters.
