Prepaid Water Meters: Cost Recovery Calculator for Landlords
Quick answer: With prepaid meters each tenant buys water before using it, so the landlord stops paying for unpaid or wasted water. Compare your water bill with what tenants pay for what they use, minus system fees; the meter cost ÷ that monthly amount gives payback. Charge tenants within the law and your tenancy agreements.
Key facts
- Tenants pay for what they use, before using it
- No more chasing unpaid water bills
- Payback = meter cost ÷ monthly recovery
- Charge within the law and tenancy agreements
Prepaid Meter Calculator
Example figures only: replace them with your own. Results update as you type.
Your water bill per month–
Collected from tenants per month–
Monthly difference–
Meter cost paid back in (months)–
Tariffs for resale of water may be regulated; confirm what you may charge with your water service provider and WASREB guidance, and state it in tenancy agreements.
Why Landlords Switch
- No unpaid water bills: tenants top up before use.
- Less waste: people use less when they pay per litre.
- Fair sharing: each unit pays for its own use.
How the system works: prepaid water meters for apartments. See the prepaid water page for our system.
Frequently asked questions
Are prepaid water meters worth it for landlords?
Often, because they end unpaid bills and reduce waste; the calculator shows payback.
How do prepaid water meters work?
Tenants buy water credit, usually by M-Pesa or token, and the meter supplies water until the credit runs out.
Can a landlord charge more for water?
Resale charges may be regulated; confirm with your water provider and state the rate in the tenancy agreement.