What to do if you suspect meter tampering

What is meter tampering

Meter tampering (also known as meter rigging) is when a person takes electricity or gas without fully paying for it. It is when someone interferes with a gas or electricity meter so it records less energy than is actually being used, or bypasses the meter completely. It is the most common form of energy theft.

Meter tampering is illegal and dangerous. It can create a risk of fire, explosion or electric shock.

If you suspect meter tampering you should report it straight away. This includes signs of tampering in public places such as pubs, cafes or community centres.

If you think your meter has been tampered with

If you think your electricity or gas meter has been tampered with, contact your energy supplier as soon as possible. You might spot meter tampering when you've recently moved into a property, or someone has accessed your meter without your permission.

Common signs of meter tampering are:

• loose or exposed wiring
• scorch marks, burning smells or other signs of overheating
• damaged casing
• broken or missing security seals
• a smell of gas or pipes that look out of place

Other signs include your meter reading not increasing when it’s in use, or when energy is still available when your credit has run out.

These signs do not always mean a meter has been tampered with. They could also be caused by damage or a fault. Contact your supplier if you suspect your meter is damaged.

Do not attempt to fix the meter yourself. Your supplier will send an engineer to check the safety of the meter.

Check if your meter is faulty on the Citizens Advice website.

If your energy supplier thinks you have tampered with your meter

If your supplier says your meter has been tampered with but you did not do it, tell them as soon as possible.

Your supplier should investigate before deciding who is responsible. They should consider all the available evidence, not just the condition of the meter.

If your supplier decides you are responsible and you disagree, you can make a complaint. If you’re not happy with the way your complaint is dealt with, you can ask the Energy Ombudsman to help resolve it.

Find out more about how to complain about your energy supplier or network operator.