DEP is automating its meter reading capabilities to improve customer services for its approximately 830,000 customers, serving nearly eight million people in New York City.

The Automated Meter Reading (AMR) system consists of small, low-power radio transmitters connected to individual water meters that send daily readings to a network of rooftop receivers throughout the city.  In most cases, the transmitters will be placed where meter remote receptacles are currently located. The AMR receivers will be part of the Department of Information Technology and Telecommunications (DoITT) New York City Wireless Network (NYCWiN).  The installation of the AMR system will take approximately three years to complete.

The new AMR technology will be able to send accurate readings to a computerized billing system up to four times a day and will largely eliminate the need for estimated bills.  Since it is an automated system, AMR also eliminates the need for a meter reader to visit customer properties.

DEP contractors will be providing door-to-door free installations of the AMR transmitters for water customers and will also be replacing some old water meters.

AMR is a key part of DEP's ongoing transformation of DEP's Bureau of Customer Services (BCS). As part of this initiative, customer service and billing practices have improved significantly, with more robust, accurate and easily accessible information now available to all 826,000 water and sewer account holders throughout the City.

Residents are reminded that all DEP contractors providing door-to-door free installations must carry and show photo I.D. cards and badges and are in uniform.