ELLICOTT CITY, MD – Howard County’s Department of Public Works’ Bureau of Utilities continues its residential water meter replacement program, with 16,000 meters left to be replaced at no cost to County water customers in the next year and a half. As existing water meters in the system approach the end of their useful life, it is vital that they be replaced to ensure accurate and timely water usage data. Some water meters have already begun to fail, resulting in the need to estimate water bills.
Originally launched in the fall of 2019, the program was halted due to COVID-19 pandemic-related supply chain issues. Meter replacements resumed in the spring of 2023. To date, nearly 56,000 residential water meters have been replaced.
To complete the water meter replacement program quickly and efficiently, the County has contracted with Vanguard Utility Service. As most of the water meters are located indoors, access to homes by appointment will be needed. Appointments should last no more than 20 to 30 minutes.
Residents will receive notification in the mail prior to meter installers arriving in their neighborhood. This notification will include contact information for Vanguard Utility Service so residents can schedule their water meter replacement appointment. Appointments are currently available Monday through Saturday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tuesday hours have been extended to 7:00 p.m. to accommodate residents’ work schedules.
Residents are asked to please have someone 18-years or older present to admit the technician for their appointment. Authorized Vanguard Utility Service technicians will be in uniform and have a Howard County Government photo ID badge. Additionally, residents are asked to please make sure their meter is accessible by clearing obstructions from around the water meter area within a five-foot radius.
Additional information or to view a short video about the Water Meter Replacement Program, can be found on the Bureau’s “Water Meter Division” website.