Over the past two years, Avara has taken new steps towards responsibility and environmental sustainability by introducing consumption‑based water billing in selected properties. According to Avara’s Development Manager, Leena Häkkänen, the reform enables residents to monitor their water consumption in real time and gives them the opportunity to influence their own housing costs.
Background of the Reform
Previously, water charges were based on a fixed rate determined either by the apartment’s square metres or an estimated number of occupants. Consumption‑based water billing, however, introduced a fairer and more transparent model in which each resident pays exactly according to their own water use.
Real-Time Monitoring and Resident Support
Through the OmaAvara service, residents can track their water consumption in real time via their personal pages. Residents have also received practical tips and guidelines on how to reduce water use and, as a result, lower their own water charges.
Project Implementation and Results
The project began in 2023 with development work on the OmaAvara system and the updating of water meters. The first four pilot properties transitioned to consumption‑based billing in April 2024.
By the end of 2025, a total of 20 properties were already included in the new billing model.
Following the pilot phase, a resident survey was conducted to assess satisfaction with the new system. The results were highly positive: 83% of respondents stated that consumption‑based billing had made them pay more attention to their water consumption.
Responsibility and Savings
In the pilot properties, consumption‑based water billing has reduced water usage by approximately 20%. This reduction not only lowers residents’ water charges but also decreases overall property consumption and maintenance costs. Residents have appreciated the reform and reported increased awareness of their daily water use.
Future Plans
Avara will continue expanding consumption‑based water billing in the coming years. During 2026, at least 39 additional properties will transition to the model.
The goal is to further promote water conservation, sustainable consumption, and to provide residents with better tools to influence their housing costs. Avara will continue to monitor water consumption trends and resident satisfaction as the transition progresses.
