Water meters in sectional title schemes, utility management and in particular water management systems have recently become increasingly important for Body Corporates.
Rising water tariffs, Difficulty recovering water usage and the continued pressure from the City of Cape Town has made water management a priority for all Body Corporates.
Body Corporates are spending too much money on water per month and the need for effective management and metering services are essential to the growth and improvement of their Sectional Title Scheme.
What is a Sectional Title Scheme?
A sectional title scheme, by definition and outlined in the Sectional Titles Schemes Management Act, facilitates the division of structures into sections and common property, the purchase of independent ownership in sections, and joint ownership in common property.
The Role of the Body Corporate
The role and responsibility of the body corporate include; the upkeep of the common property, ensuring it receives routine maintenance and repairs. The Body Corporate also enters into insurance policies for the protection of the property. For the benefit of all owners, there is a general obligation to protect the common property. Additionally, the Body Corporate is in charge of overseeing administrative duties like making sure that all general laws and scheme regulations are obeyed.
Water Metering Solutions for sectional Title Schemes
The long-term advantages of installing water meters in sectional title schemes cannot be underestimated. Basic services and their control and regulation are critical components of maintaining a thriving long-term relationship for all parties involved, including the property owner, property manager, and occupant.
Water Management Solutions for Sectional Title Schemes
Prepaid meters for Sectional Title Schemes
The decision to install pre-payment utility mechanisms are made by the Body Corporate quorum majority which also ensures the installation of water meters does not infringe on the constitutional rights of section occupants to essential services.
There are obvious benefits of water meter installation in sectional title schemes for property owners and managers and the responsibility for a steady water supply lies with the occupants of the property.
Other advantages include:
- Other occupants of a residential block or property do not have to pay inflated levies resulting from any abuse of services by their neighbours;
- Body corporates and individual owners are not at risk of tenants failing to pay for basic water services
Smart water meters for Sectional Title Schemes
Smart water meters in sectional title schemes capture real-time meter readings and data, eliminating the need for manual meter readings on-site and in person.
The benefits of smart water meters include; getting real-time meter readings. In addition to lowering operating costs through precise billing, smart water meters also reduce non-revenue water consumption offering peace of mind.
Leak prevention at its best
Many homeowners have silent leaks that they either don’t even know about or feel are too minor to deal with. Installing a smart water meter as a leak prevention tool will automatically prevent a catastrophe on your property. It has become increasingly important to effectively manage water use and by installing a smart water meter, it will be easier to be alerted to small leaks, running toilets, and dripping faucets which are known to be the most common causes of water damage. Getting a certified and approved smart water meter installer will ensure the longevity of the system and ensure the reliability of the smart water meter.
Legal Requirements for Water Meters in Sectional Title Schemes
The New Water Amendment By-Law, Section 28(22) and (23), require that all owners of units in a sectional title scheme need to have water meters installed by October 2020.
The director of Water and Sanitation of the City of Cape Town issued a notice on the 5th of October 2018 that all multi-dwelling, commercial and industrial premises must comply with the Water Amendment By-Law of 2018 and have meters isolating valves installed to every unit within 24 months.
If the by-law is not adhered to, the City of Cape Town may issue a fine, take legal action against you and restrict or disconnect your water supply.
