Cape Town has reached the halfway point in its city-wide water meter replacement programme, with more than 33 000 new mechanical meters installed to replace old ones.
The City has replaced 33 654 conventional meters by 31 March as part of the current 2025-26 financial year. The programme began in August 2025 and aims to replace 62 000 meters by the end of June this year.
This R72 million annual programme is separate from the City’s move to smart water metering technology, which is being installed in pilot areas at the same time.
Three main goals
The replacement drive has three key aims: replacing old metal or broken water meters with newer versions, moving meters from inside private properties to more accessible locations for easier reading and maintenance, and installing new water connections for individual land buyers planning to develop homes or businesses.
Work is currently taking place or is planned for 621 areas across Cape Town. Additional replacements also happen across the city when broken or ageing meters are found.
Accurate billing benefits
The City’s Mayco member for water and sanitation, Zahid Badroodien, said the programme was essential for keeping water infrastructure up to date.
“This R72 million annual programme is vital for keeping our water infrastructure up to date and ensuring residents are billed accurately based on actual usage. An accurate reading saves both water and money as it reduces estimates and allows customers to track their water use, identify spikes and detect possible leaks. Residents can continue to submit their own monthly water meter readings to the City,” said Badroodien.
What residents need to know
A City-appointed contractor, Gunning Construction and Civils (Pty) Ltd, is installing the meters across Cape Town. Property owners will receive an official City letter confirming the need for meter replacement as part of planned maintenance.
Residents who are unsure can verify the contractor’s validity using contact details before allowing access into their home. If no one is home when a contractor visits, a seven-day notice will be left with details of the next scheduled visit.
How to verify contractors
Residents can use their account number to verify the validity of the work by contacting the City on:
- WhatsApp: 060 018 1505; Call: 0860 103 089; SMS: 31373 (max 160 characters)
- Email: water@capetown.gov.za
- Online: www.capetown.gov.za/servicerequests
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