Saanich has started a five-year project to upgrade water-meter reading equipment at about 30,000 properties. In an October 23 news release, the District said the new Advanced Metering Infrastructure, or AMI, system will let meters be read remotely, giving more timely water-use information and helping staff spot unusual use that may mean a leak.
“This is an important investment in the infrastructure that supports reliable water service for our community,” Harley Machielse, Director of Engineering, said in the release. “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 move through neighbourhoods in phases. About 6,000 meter locations are to be upgraded each year. Saanich says it is one of the first municipalities on Vancouver Island to make the change.
Most upgrades, the District says, take about 45 minutes, can be done without anyone being home, and leave the water on, because most of the work is at an accessible meter box. In some cases the meter itself will have to be replaced. If crews need to enter private property or a building, or if a short water interruption is required, Saanich or its contractor will give advance notice. KTI Utility Services will complete most upgrades; District staff will handle some larger or more complex installations. All crews are to be clearly identified.
The District says the system collects meter identification and water-use readings only — not information about activities inside a home or business — and that data is stored in the Sensus Analytics platform with access controlled by the District. The project is funded through Saanich’s Water Capital Budget and is included in existing utility rates, as part of an infrastructure renewal program. Updates are at saanich.ca/hello. Questions can go to Saanich Engineering, 250-475-5575 or engineering@saanich.ca.
Good to know
- About 30,000 properties will be upgraded over five years, beginning late 2026, at roughly 6,000 locations a year.
- Most visits take about 45 minutes, with the water left on; you do not usually need to be home.
- Details: Saanich’s October 23 news release.
Image: Screenshot of the District of Saanich October 23, 2026 news release.
Photo: District of Saanich, Screenshot of official news release, via source.
