How to install a cabinet or shed over a water meter?

[michaelmkchu]

I am looking to install a cabinet or shed at the front of my terrace (we don't have a lot of storage).

The front patio is under cover, but there is a water meter where I want to install the cabinet. 

If I ignore the water meter, I have space for a cabinet that is 90cm wide, 70 cm deep and >200cm tall.

I am considering either building it myself or buying a cabinet then cutting out the relevant area. I am a beginner when it comes to DIY.

If I buy a cabinet, I would cut out the back left section and anchor the rest to the wall. I am thinking plastic resin cabinet as I am uncertain about cutting metal. I do have a small jigsaw that I have used on wood.

How would you approach this?

This is a top down image of the water meter, with walls on two sides. Note that there is no space to have a cabinet / shed wall between the brick and the meter. 

[MitchellMc]

Hi @michaelmkchu,

Before going any further, I’d recommend checking with your local water authority to confirm whether you’re allowed to enclose the meter. Since you’d be partially hiding it, there’s a chance the meter reader might not be able to locate or access it easily, which could cause issues. Also, if you’re unsure about the type of meter, especially as it looks a little different from what I’ve typically seen, it’s worth verifying that it is indeed a water meter and not a gas meter or something else.

Assuming you get the green light to proceed, your idea of using a plastic resin cabinet is a smart one. Resin is easier to cut than metal, making it more suitable for a beginner using a jigsaw. I’d start by placing the cabinet in the intended position and marking out exactly where the meter sits. You can then cut out a section from the back or side to ensure the meter stays accessible. It’s also worth keeping the offcut — you might be able to reattach it with Velcro or magnets to make a neat but removable panel.

Make sure you anchor the cabinet securely to the wall, avoiding any pipework near the meter. If the meter sits slightly raised, you could cut into the floor of the cabinet or build a small frame around it to avoid putting pressure on it. 

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell

[michaelmkchu]

Thank you! I think you might be right, it might be a gas meter. I plan to put up a sign and leave the door unlocked so the meter ready can access it. 

As for cutting the resin cabinet, I like your idea - so I assemble it first, perhaps reinforcing some of the areas e.g., for the part I cut off, it might be restructural and then put it in place.

[MitchellMc]

Hi @michaelmkchu,

Enclosing a gas meter is likely not an option. There are probably rules relating to it needing to be in a well-ventilated area. Remember to reach out to your supplier first.

Mitchell

[Noyade]

Certainly gas.

I met the gas meter reader last year outside and asked if the Three Pigs were blocking access.

He grunted "no."

I then asked since the gas meter is prominent - can I build a cover over it, with an opening to see the figures?

He grunted "no" - and walked off.

The lesson I learnt that day was never upset the meter reader.