Saanich to Deploy Smart Water Meters to Detect Leaks and Modernize Water Service Saanich will install remote‑reading water meters across 30,000 homes over five years, enabling earlier leak detection, improved billing and long‑term planning while maintaining service continuity. The initiative, set to start in late 2026, aligns with the municipality's strategic priorities and will be funded through the existing Water Capital Budget. Saanich residents will soon experience a significant upgrade to their water service when the municipality rolls out a new water‑meter technology across the entire district in a five‑year plan that begins in late 2026. The initiative will bring remote reading capabilities to roughly 30,000 households, giving the district a clearer picture of consumption patterns without having to rely on traditional manual readings. The sensors are specifically designed to flag unusual usage that could indicate a leak, allowing both the municipality and residents to identify and address water loss before it escalates into a larger problem.Engineering Director Praises Infrastructure Investment"This is an important investment in the infrastructure that supports reliable water service for our community," said Harley Machielse, Saanich's director of engineering, in a news release. He added that the new system will provide the district with more timely information to support customer service, billing and long‑term water‑system planning. The project will proceed at a rate of about 6,000 meter locations per year, with crews moving through neighbourhoods in a staged manner.Saanich is among the first on Vancouver Island to adopt the technology, a move that could set a precedent for neighbouring districts. For most households, the change is expected to be straightforward. Crews anticipate that upgrading will take around 45 minutes, and residents generally do not need to be home during the process. The work will normally take place at an accessible meter box with water service continuing as usual.However, some properties may require a full meter replacement. In cases where crews need to enter a building, access private property, or shut off water temporarily, residents will be notified in advance. KTI Utility Services will handle most of the installations, while Saanich staff will manage larger or more complex projects. Workers will be clearly identified, and the new meters record only meter identification and water consumption readings, not activities inside homes or businesses.Data Security And Funding Details ExplainedData will be transmitted and stored on the Sensus Analytics platform with access controlled by the district, and the low‑power wireless technology complies with Canadian regulations. The project will be funded through Saanich's Water Capital Budget and is already accounted for in the existing utility rates as part of the municipality's ongoing infrastructure renewal program. Beyond improving leak detection, the upgrade is intended to replace older meters and reading equipment that are becoming less dependable or incompatible with newer technology.It also aligns with priorities in Saanich council's 2023 to 2027 strategic plan, including asset management, reliable service and water conservation. By modernizing the meter network, Saanich aims to give residents a more accurate and efficient water‑billing experience while strengthening the reliability of the overall water supply system. The investment also positions the district as a regional leader in adopting smart‑grid technology, underscoring its commitment to sustainable growth and resource stewardship.The rollout will begin in late 2026 with an estimated 6,000 upgrades each year, gradually covering all 30,000 properties over the five‑year period. Residents can expect minimal disruption, clear communication from the utility staff, and the assurance that their water system is becoming more intelligent, responsive and cost‑effective. The smart‑meter initiative reflects a broader trend across North America where municipalities are embracing IoT solutions to improve utility management and customer engagement.Strategic Benefits For Long Term ResilienceIn Saanich's case, the focus remains on proactive leak detection, data‑driven decision making, and preserving the integrity of the water network. Overall, the project delivers a series of tangible benefits-including reduced water loss, more precise billing, and aligned investment in water‑conservation strategy-making it a worthwhile investment for the municipality's long‑term resilience.In conclusion, Saanich's adoption of remote water‑meter technology marks a pivotal step toward a smarter, more efficient, and environmentally responsible water system, ensuring that residents and the municipal infrastructure are better equipped to handle the challenges of the future.