Homeowner Side vs. Utility Side of the Water Meter
The meter is the transition point — understanding what is on each side determines who fixes what.
The water meter is generally the transition point between utility-owned infrastructure and homeowner-owned plumbing. On the utility side — the water main and the meter itself — the utility (commonly KUB in Knoxville) is responsible for repairs and maintenance. On the homeowner side — the service line from the meter to the house and all interior plumbing — the homeowner is responsible. If a problem appears, the first step is determining which side of the meter it is on.
Why This Matters
If you have a water line problem, the side of the meter it is on determines who you call, who pays, and how quickly it gets fixed. A leak on the utility side may be repaired by the utility at no cost to you. A leak on your side is your responsibility — and the longer it goes, the more damage it can do. Knowing where the meter is and what is on each side helps you act quickly and correctly.
How It Generally Works in the Knoxville Area
Think of the water meter as a dividing line: Utility side (before the meter): The water main under the street, the connection to your property, and the meter itself. The utility owns and maintains these. If there is a problem here — a main break, a leaking meter box, or a damaged meter — contact the utility. Homeowner side (after the meter): The service line from the meter to the house, all interior plumbing, fixtures, and appliances. The homeowner owns and maintains these. If there is a problem here — a leaking service line, a slab leak, or a fixture failure — contact a plumber. The meter itself: Generally owned and maintained by the utility. Do not attempt to repair, alter, or bypass the meter. This model is general. Exact boundaries may vary by utility, meter location, and service agreement.
Water Line Responsibility — General Diagram
Water Main
Utility-owned
Water Meter
Transition point
Service Line
Homeowner-owned
House Plumbing
Homeowner-owned
This diagram shows a general responsibility model. Exact boundaries may vary by utility provider, meter location, and service agreement. Verify with your utility.
What the Homeowner Can Check
- Where your water meter is located
- Whether the problem appears to be before or after the meter
- Whether the meter itself appears damaged or is leaking
- Whether multiple homes are affected (which may indicate a utility-side issue)
Who to Contact
KUB (Knoxville Utilities Board)
For issues on the utility side — the main, the meter, or the connection before the meter.
Visit siteA Licensed Plumber
For issues on the homeowner side — the service line, interior plumbing, or fixtures.
Learn moreWhat Not to Do
- Do not attempt to repair, alter, or bypass the water meter
- Do not dig near the meter or utility lines without calling 811
- Do not assume a problem is on the utility's side without checking your meter first
Still not sure who is responsible or what to do next?
Ask our AI Plumber — describe the problem and get guidance on whether it is likely on your side or the utility side.
Ask the AI PlumberVerify current requirements directly with the applicable authority.
Requirements may differ depending on whether the property is inside the City of Knoxville, elsewhere in Knox County, or served by another utility. Homeowners should verify current requirements with the applicable permitting authority before beginning work.
Common Questions
How can I tell which side of the meter a leak is on?
Turn off all water inside the house and check the meter. If the meter is still moving, water is flowing somewhere. If the leak is visible between the meter and the house, it is likely on your side. If the meter box is flooded or the street is wet, it may be on the utility side. When in doubt, contact KUB and a plumber.
Who owns the water meter?
The water meter is generally owned and maintained by the utility (KUB in most of Knoxville). Do not attempt to repair or alter it.
If the problem involves your home's plumbing, The Classic Plumber can help.
We diagnose before we recommend — and we tell you when the issue is on the utility's side.