Tens of thousands of water meters will begin to be compulsorily fitted in homes across the south from tomorrow.

Southern Water is telling residents it will try to limit any disturbance.

“We are taking every step to keep disruption to residents and businesses to a minimum as we carry out our metering programme in the South East,” said Darren Bentham, Southern Water’s director of metering.

“This includes using ‘no dig’ technology where possible, working on alternate sides of the streets to keep footpaths open, keeping the working area safely cordoned off and clearing up after the end of each working day. Where possible we are also co-ordinating the work with that of the highway authorities and other utility companies.”

By 2014, some 140,000 meters will have been installed across southern Hampshire. Southern Water insists the £83m programme is vital because the south of England is one of the driest areas in the UK. They say this is the result of an increasing population and the impact of climate change creating warmer and drier years.

The company aims to fit about 50 meters each day but this will increase to about 750 meters a day as the programme builds.

About one week ahead of the meter installation, householders should see signs on lampposts letting them know when the metering teams will reach their area. Customers will receive information packs through their doors, with advice about the meter installation and metered water bills.