Residential Water Meter Reading

Did you know that dripping, running or malfunctioning plumbing fixtures and appliances in your home can lead to water bills in the hundreds or even thousands of dollars? Every billing cycle, the City is contacted by several property owners and tenants who are experiencing this very problem.

The most effective way to avoid an elevated water bill is to monitor your household consumption by regularly reading your water meter. In most homes, the water meter is located in the basement.  If you have trouble locating it, locate your water heater and follow the cold water pipe entering your water heater back to the meter.

Meter Reading Instructions

Click the thumbnail images below for a larger PDF version of instructions for the three most common-style water meters in the East Lansing system. Most other styles follow the same principles described here. If you have trouble reading your meter, contact the Department of Public Works at (517) 337-9459.
Meter Reading Instructions 2
Meter Reading Instructions 3
Meter Reading Instructions 4