Meterruimtes

Meterruimtes, or meter rooms, are dedicated spaces within buildings used to house utility meters and related equipment. They provide centralized access for utility providers and building management to measure consumption and monitor services such as electricity, gas, water, and sometimes heat.

Typical contents include electricity meters (main and sub-metering), gas meters, water meters, heat meters for district heating systems, and remote-reading devices. The room may be a standalone room in basements or service corridors, or a cabinet in a hallway or utility shaft. In larger buildings, meters may be distributed in a central metering area serving multiple units.

Design considerations include adequate ventilation and lighting, secure access for authorized personnel, and clear labeling. Meters are often protected by locks or tamper-evident seals, and the space should meet fire-safety and electrical safety requirements. Temperature and humidity controls help preserve sensitive equipment.

Regulatory and contractual aspects commonly govern access rights for utility companies, privacy of consumption data, and compliance with local building codes and standards. Regular inspection, safe labeling, and documentation of meter locations aid maintenance and billing.

With the advent of smart metering, meterruimtes increasingly accommodate remote-reading equipment and energy-management systems. Location and enclosure practices vary by country and building type, with some regions placing meters in external cabinets or individual utility closets rather than in a centralized room.

See also: Meter; Building services; Energy management; Utility metering standards.