Electric Submetering for Multifamily

Revenue-grade metering for every unit

Electric submetering gives each resident an accurate, revenue-grade record of their own electricity use so the property can bill it back instead of absorbing it or estimating it by formula. UMS supplies, installs, reads, and bills electric submetering systems for multifamily buildings of every size, from garden-style walk-ups to high-rises, in all 48 contiguous states.

At the unit. Flush-mount or surface-mount meters install at the breaker panel inside each unit. This is the usual choice for retrofits, since it works with the existing wiring.

At the distribution panel. Preassembled, preprogrammed Multiple Meter Units (MMUs) install at central distribution panels and meter many units from one location. This is often the most cost-effective option for new construction and for buildings with centralized electrical rooms.

Both options support single-phase, two-phase, and three-phase service, hold their readings through a power failure, and transmit wirelessly to our reading network. No on-site commissioning is required. See the electric meter specification sheet.

• • Revenue Grade Accuracy and compact design
  • Maintains Reading in the Event of a Power Failure
  • Easy Installation for New Construction or Retrofits
  • Installation of single phase, two phase, or 3 phase system
  • Self-install option where UMS preps and supplies the equipment
  • Integrated form 2S socket meters
  • No on-site commissioning required

We service all major types of submeters and submeter equipment. Our ability to monitor, repair, or replace equipment is unmatched and one of the top reasons why properties switch to UMS billing. Our billing analysts monitor usage each month to identify potential issues proactively and our metering department responds quickly to repair or replace equipment. That means a fully operational submetering system and better recovery for the property.

Installation options

UMS installs. Our technicians handle the full install, coordinated unit by unit with your on-site team.

Self-install. For owners with an electrician on staff or under contract, we prep, program, and ship the equipment with unit-by-unit instructions. Your electrician installs; we verify each meter is reporting before billing starts. This can lower installed cost meaningfully on larger projects.

New construction. We coordinate with the general contractor and electrical engineer so meter locations and panel layouts are set during design. See our new construction planning guide.

Why owners choose UMS for electric submetering

• Revenue-grade meters, so bills stand up to resident scrutiny
• More than 20 years and more than 100,000 units of multifamily submetering experience
• Meters, installation, wireless reading, billing, and maintenance from one vendor
• Paired with water and gas submetering where the building supports it

Frequently asked questions

What does “revenue grade” mean?
The meter meets the accuracy standard utilities are held to for billing. Residents are billed on measured use, not an estimate.

Do residents lose power during installation?
Briefly, when the meter is connected at the panel. We schedule with your on-site team and notify residents ahead of time.

Can we submeter a building that was master-metered when it was built?
In most cases, yes. In-unit panel meters work with existing wiring. We survey the building to confirm before quoting.

What about EV charging or common-area loads?
Common-area and shared loads stay on the master meter and are excluded from resident bills. Dedicated EV charging circuits can be metered separately; ask us about your layout.

From meter to resident bill

If you want to bill residential or retail tenants for metered electric usage, UMS has a fully wireless and reliable solution. For mixed use properties we can bill retail tenants for metered usage and allocate the delta to the residential tenants to provide an equitable solution for tenants and cost-effective solution for owners. Contact us today to learn more about electric submetering and find a solution that works for your building.