That sound borderline insulting.It sure sounds like it. If this is all on the level, you can install an above-ground meter in your utility cabinet (where your 3/4" line comes in from the outside) and of course after your shutoff valve in your garage. This way you can shut off the water from the inside if any leaks occur during installation or in the future. If you want accurate readings from month to month, don't go for a cheap one. Use a Rainbird or Toro brand meter.
No malice intended.That sound borderline insulting.
I appreciate your experience, and trying to save OP any nasty surprises. We don't all know all here, and your sharing what you DO know might save thousands for someone who DOESN'T know the rules/laws/policies. Example: a neighbor here forgot to pay his water bill. They cut him off...he went down and paid it, then went home and turned his meter on...and got into the shower. Shortly, it went off. Turns out the water man came out to turn him back on...and saw he'd already done it. Left it off and locked the meter, till he went down and paid a little over $250 for turning it on himself. No subterfuge, no theft, bill was now paid in full...but he wasn't supposed to touch their meter...and didn't know it.No malice intended.
As a Civil Engineer, I have seen my fair share of utility theft and manipulation; and I have seen the consequences that are handed down to the property owner.