Do I need a license to install water meters

Does a water meter installation specialist need a license? If so, since when does this rule apply?
Anatoly

Expert Answer

Hello, Anatoly!

To date, there is no direct prohibition on the independent installation of water meters. In their requirements, water canal workers often refer to the Resolution “On the procedure for organizing metering of cold and hot water consumption by common house and apartment metering devices”, clause 4.7 of which says that “Installation, repair and / or maintenance of water meters by consumers is not allowed” . At the same time, this norm does not say anything about licensing such activities, but to install the device you can resort to the services of a third-party specialist - he is not a consumer. There is no mention of compulsory licensing of such activities in the Rules for the provision of public services (paragraph 354). In general, to date, it has not been possible to find a law that would directly say that a license is required to install a water meter, as well as a project.

On the other hand, some legislative norms indirectly prohibit the installation of metering devices by users. This uncertainty is used by officials of water supply organizations, interpreting certain points of laws in their favor. At the same time, prices are often overstated, additional services are imposed, etc.

In a word, if you have the time and desire to confront the bureaucratic machine, then if you refuse to register and seal the installed water meter, feel free to go to court - the law is on your side. But, unfortunately, no one knows how each specific case will turn out.