Abstract: A system for monitoring consumption of a utility by a building unit is provided. The system includes a sensor disposed externally yet proximal to a meter for recording consumption of the utility and having an indicator which indicates an event whenever a predefined quantity of the utility is consumed by the building unit. The sensor is configured for detecting each event and is connected to a controller having a controller, the controller being situated within the building unit. The controller is programmable with the predetermined event quantity as well as tariff information for the event and counts each event detected by the sensor. Based on the events counted, the tariff information, and the predefined event quantity, the controller generates consumption information, including approximate consumption totals of the utility consumed and costs therefor. The consumption information is selectively displayed on a display unit connected to the controller.