FAQs • Charleston Water System, SC • CivicEngage

How much does it cost to install a commercial irrigation meter?: Commercial accounts are charged both a tap and impact fee based on meter size. In most cases, an irrigation meter can be very cost effective because commercial accounts are charged wastewater based on 100 percent of their water use fees. Tap and Ipact Fees cover the cost for the Charleston Water System distribution system to install and connect the new meter. A $35 account origination fee is also charged for creation of the new account. This fee is nonrefundable and nontransferable. It is important to note that irrigation accounts require installation of a backflow prevention device. These devices must be tested annually by an approved tester. A plumber or contractor can install a backflow preventer for you. The cost will be determined by the type of device required and the installation labor. Annual testing fees vary, so it’s a good idea to call around for pricing, but be sure to use a Charleston Water System approved tester.

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Irrigation Accounts

1. What’s the advantage in getting a separate irrigation account?: The advantage is that you will not pay sewer charges on the water you use outdoors. You'll continue to pay sewer charges for your residential account that supplies your home, but those charges will be based on your indoor water usage, which typically decreases when you begin using your irrigation meter for outdoor watering.

2. How much does it cost to install a residential irrigation meter?: The total cost to install a ¾” domestic irrigation meter is $535. That includes a $500 tap fee, which covers the cost to install and connect the new meter, and a $35 account origination fee. This fee is nonrefundable or transferable. It’s important to note that irrigation accounts require you to install a backflow prevention device and have it tested annually by an approved tester. A certified plumber or contractor can install a backflow preventer for you. The cost will depend on the type of device required and the installation labor.

3. How much does it cost to install a commercial irrigation meter?: Commercial accounts are charged both a tap and impact fee based on meter size. In most cases, an irrigation meter can be very cost effective because commercial accounts are charged wastewater based on 100 percent of their water use fees. Tap and Ipact Fees cover the cost for the Charleston Water System distribution system to install and connect the new meter. A $35 account origination fee is also charged for creation of the new account. This fee is nonrefundable and nontransferable. It is important to note that irrigation accounts require installation of a backflow prevention device. These devices must be tested annually by an approved tester. A plumber or contractor can install a backflow preventer for you. The cost will be determined by the type of device required and the installation labor. Annual testing fees vary, so it’s a good idea to call around for pricing, but be sure to use a Charleston Water System approved tester.

4. How much will I save on my monthly bill if I install an irrigation meter?: Your savings depends on where you live and your water use. Most customers see a payback on the up-front cost of installing the irrigation meter in 4 to 5 years.
For a savings and payback period estimate, call (843) 727-6800, or email us.

*One important thing to consider is how getting an irrigation meter will affect your domestic sewer bill if you live in a single family home. You won’t pay any sewer charges for water used through an irrigation meter, but your sewer bill for your residential account will increase slightly because your domestic sewer charges will be calculated based on 100% of your domestic water usage instead of 95%.

5. How do I apply for an irrigation meter?: Complete the Application For Service form. If you have any questions, contact us at 843-727-6800 or email us.

6. How long will it take to get an irrigation meter installed?: It typically takes eight weeks from the time you apply and pay for an irrigation account to the time it is installed.

Additionally, our backflow requirements must be met before we will activate the irrigation service. We require irrigation accounts to have a backflow prevention assembly in order to protect our water system against contamination from backflow.

We do not install or test backflow preventers. Customers are responsible for installing backflow preventers in accordance with our requirements and having them tested annually. For more information: Backflow requirements for residential customers

7. Who installs the irrigation meter?: Charleston Water System will install the new meter box and meter. The customer is responsible for connecting their water service line on their property to the new meter (we recommend hiring a qualified plumber, landscaper, or contractor to do this). We do not install irrigation systems or required backflow preventers.

8. Who can I contact for more information?: Please contact our Customer Service Department at 843-727-6800 or via email.