Submetering Systems: The Key to Cost Savings in Multifamily Properties
Last reviewed September 2026NES Editorial, checked by the Billing & Compliance team
As utility costs rise, multifamily owners use NES submetering systems to move utility responsibility to residents and protect the bottom line.
- Typical water savings
- 15-30%Typical water savings
- Typical payback
- ~12 moTypical payback
- Meter reads
- DailyMeter reads
- States served
- 43+States served
How do submetering systems cut costs in multifamily properties?
A submetering system is the full chain: a meter on each unit, wireless equipment that collects the readings, and billing that charges every resident for their own use. That moves utility cost from the owner to the residents who create it, and it lowers total use, because people conserve what they pay for. Properties typically save 15 to 40 percent on utility costs, and most systems pay for themselves in 12 to 18 months. NES provides water, gas, and electric submetering, fits each meter in under 30 minutes per unit, and can usually have equipment installed and resident billing live within 90 days. The total billed to residents never exceeds the property's master-meter cost.
How the system works
The meter on each unit takes the measurement. Wireless repeaters relay the readings to a gateway, which uploads them daily, and the billing platform turns each unit's usage into a monthly resident bill. The utility still bills the property through its master meter; the system decides who covers it. Common-area use is measured separately and stays with the owner.
Fast to deploy
- NES technicians install the meters; your maintenance team can often mount the wireless repeaters and gateway
- Equipment and resident billing are usually live within 90 days
- Accurate per-unit measurement means residents pay only for what they use
- Owners recover utility expense and gain more predictable cash flow
Not sure submetering fits your property?
Start with a free assessment. Send NES your master-meter bills and unit count, and the team will confirm feasibility, estimate your return, and recommend the right method for your property, with no obligation.
Submetering Systems: The Key to Cost Savings in Multifamily Properties
See what your property can recover.
Send us your master-meter bills and unit count. We’ll run the numbers on your actual property and reply within one business day with a clear, no-obligation estimate.