Metering Payback Calculator

Submeters enable utility pass-through. This calculator sizes payback.

Meter install $/unit

Unit count

Annual usage per unit

Pre-meter allocation $/unit

Consumption reduction %

Payback months

1 yr 2 mo

Total investment

$84,000

Annual savings

$74,040

How the math works

Investment = meter × units. Savings = pass-through shift + consumption reduction × units.

Most multifamily submetering projects pay back in 12-24 months. On 120 units at $700/unit install ($84k), annual savings of $50-70k gives payback under 18 months. After payback, ongoing savings flow straight to NOI — direct cap rate lift on exit.

How to Use

Enter meter install cost per unit.
Enter unit count.
Enter annual consumption per unit.
Enter utility cost per unit annual.
Enter pre-meter allocation allowance.
Read payback months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Meter cost?

Water submeter retrofit: $350-800/unit. Electric submeter: $400-1200/unit. Gas: $600-1200/unit. Cost depends on access, existing infrastructure, and billing service integration. Multifamily retrofits typical $500-900/unit all-in.

Savings source?

Shift consumption from owner-paid to tenant-paid. Tenants in metered units reduce consumption 15-30% once billed. Combined effect: 20-40% cost reduction on metered utilities. Payback usually 12-36 months.

Compliance?

State utility commission rules apply. Some states require certification, disclosure, dispute procedures. Integration with rent payment/portal helps adoption. Read-and-bill service common ($2-5/meter/month).