Canonical Definition
Master metering is a service configuration in which a single utility meter measures usage for an entire multi-unit property, such as an apartment building or mobile home park, with the property owner as the utility's customer of record. Individual occupants do not receive utility bills directly; energy costs are typically embedded in rent or allocated by the owner, sometimes via submetering where permitted. Many jurisdictions restrict master metering in new construction; rules vary by state.
Explanations
Master metering means one meter serves a whole building or complex. The property owner, not each tenant, is the utility's customer. Residents usually pay for energy through rent. Sometimes the owner bills them using private submeters. Tenants do not see their own use directly. For that reason, many states limit master metering in new buildings. Rules vary by state.
Master metering means one big meter counts the energy for a whole building. The landlord gets the one bill. Each apartment does not get its own.
Analogy Bank
Master metering is like one water bill for a whole apartment building — the landlord pays it, and tenants cover it through rent.
It's like splitting one giant restaurant check evenly across the entire table, no matter who ordered what.
For property owners, it's like a single bulk internet contract for the building rather than individual subscriber accounts.
Do Not Say
- ✕Do not advise on landlord-tenant cost allocation disputes; refer customers to state rules or local tenant resources.
- ✕Do not state whether master metering is permitted in a given building or state; regulations vary.