Saanich, BC – Saanich is starting a five-year project to upgrade water meter-reading equipment at about 30,000 properties across the community. 

The new Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) system will allow water meters to be read remotely, providing more timely water-use information and helping the District identify unusual water use that may indicate a leak. 

“This is an important investment in the infrastructure that supports reliable water service for our community,” said Harley Machielse, Director of Engineering. “The new system will give us more timely information to support customer service, billing and long-term water-system planning.” 

Work is expected to begin in late 2026 and will move through neighbourhoods in phases over the next five years. Approximately 6,000 meter locations will be upgraded each year, and Saanich is one of the first municipalities on Vancouver Island to make this change. 

What residents can expect 

Most meter-reading equipment upgrades will take about 45 minutes and can be completed without residents being home. Most work will take place at an accessible meter box, and water service will remain on. 

In some cases, the water meter itself may need to be replaced. If access to private property or a building is needed, or if a short water interruption is required, the District or its contractor will provide advance notice. 

KTI Utility Services will complete most upgrades on Saanich’s behalf. Some larger or more complex installations will be completed by District staff. All crews will be clearly identified. 

The system collects meter identification and water-use readings only. It does not collect information about activities inside a home or business. Data is securely transmitted and stored within the Sensus Analytics platform, with access controlled by the District, and the equipment uses low-power radio signals that meet applicable Canadian requirements. 

The project is funded through Saanich’s Water Capital Budget. It is part of the District’s ongoing infrastructure renewal program and is included in the existing utility rates. 

Why are we doing this? 

The project will renew aging water meters and meter-reading equipment that are becoming less reliable or are not compatible with newer technology. 

It also supports Council’s 2023–2027 Strategic Plan priorities for asset management, reliable service delivery and water conservation. 

Learn more  

For project updates and more information, visit saanich.ca/hello or contact Saanich Engineering at 250-475-5575 or engineering@saanich.ca. 

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 Media contact:  
Saanich Communications 
media@saanich.ca