Here at Niccolo, we know that there is a lot to think about when it comes to your domestic electricity or gas meter. Installation is not easy, and in most cases, will require assistance when you start a new project or moving home. This is why we put together the most commonly asked questions noted by top energy suppliers.

Can I install my gas or electricity meter?

In short, no – It is illegal for most people to install their own domestic gas meter in the UK. This is because gas is a highly flammable substance, and the installation process requires specialist knowledge and equipment to ensure that it is carried out safely and in compliance with Ofgem UK regulations. These meters must be installed by Gas Safe Registered engineers who have the necessary qualifications, training and experience to carry out the work safely and to the required standards.

Attempting to install a meter without the required knowledge and qualifications can be extremely dangerous and may result in serious injury or even death, as well as potentially invalidating your home insurance. Using a qualified and registered professional for any gas-related work in your home is always recommended.

If you believe that you, or someone you know has the knowledge to fit the meter on their own, it is possible to contact your utility provider. You can get special permissions from the supplier and meter operator if they believe that a person has the knowledge to do this with the right equipment.

Getting your electricity meter installed on new premises

Similar to your gas supply, across Scotland, England and Wales, it is not legal to install your own electricity meter. This is because the installation of electric meters requires specialized knowledge and equipment to ensure that it is done safely and in accordance with UK regulations. Even if you want something that looks as simple as a smart meter to monitor your energy supply, it’s worth having a professional arrange to fit the equipment, so that you and the electricity supplier can both be confident in the meter’s accuracy in recording how much electricity you have consumed. This will help you when it comes to billing.

Any electric or gas engineer sent out will work as an independent party between you and your supplier, so that there can be no confusion about the reading on your meter. In short, always have your meters installed by a qualified professional.

Who can install my gas or electricity meter?

When it comes to your gas supply, only Gas Safe Registered engineers are authorized to install gas meters in domestic homes. Your energy supplier may get in touch with you about new meter options and offer to have someone undertake the work on their behalf. This way, we know that when you contact your supplier, you will be met by someone already familiar with product safety and standards.

When it comes to your electric meter, it should be noted that like the rest, only a registered electrician who has been registered with a competent person scheme or certified by a government-approved body, such as NICEIC, are authorized to install these meters. This helps to ensure that the meter is installed correctly and safely, minimizing the risk of injury or damage to property. Attempting to fit a meter without the necessary qualifications and knowledge can be dangerous and may also invalidate your home insurance. Therefore, it is always recommended to use a qualified and registered professional for any electric-related work in your home.

Is it okay to move your electric or gas meter?

We found several reasons why both domestic and non-domestic customers may want to move their meter box or meter point. One common reason is to improve the aesthetics of the property, particularly if the meter is currently located in a prominent or inconvenient location, such as in a hallway or in the middle of a room. Moving the meter to a more discreet location can help to improve the appearance of the property and make it easier to decorate or furnish.

Another reason for moving the meter could be to create more space or to accommodate a home renovation or extension project. For example, if you are planning to install a new kitchen, you may wish to move your meter to a more suitable location to create more space or to ensure it is not obstructing any new fixtures or fittings.

Finally, there may be safety concerns with the current location of the meter, such as it being located near a potential source of ignition, such as a boiler or radiator, in which case moving it to a safer location could be necessary.

Even older metering equipment like a prepayment or credit meter is eligible to be moved as a provision to your home. Most bigger energy industry names will even move it for free, but it is also worth noting that there may be costs involved in moving a prepayment meter, such as installation fees or charges for any necessary work or modifications.

The process involves a thorough assessment of the new location to ensure that it is safe and suitable for the meter, and any necessary modifications or upgrades to the meter or wiring may be required to ensure that no one can tamper with it. If you have any outstanding payments in your account, this will be accredited to your account when it is moved. Alternatively, you should not need to contact your provider to disable any gear once you have a new electric meter.

Can I have my old meter removed by the energy provider?

If you are looking for an old meter to be removed from your home after it is replaced or switching to another meter, this is possible. Typically done as part of the meter replacement process, this is carried out by qualified and registered engineers. Your utility supplier will usually arrange for the replacement and removal of your old meter, and they will inform you of any costs or fees that may be involved in the process.

It is important to note that if you are switching energy suppliers, your old meter may still need to be removed by your previous supplier before a new meter can be installed by your new supplier. In any case, your energy provider will be able to advise you on the process for removing your old meter and replacing it with a new one.

The Gas Act of 1986

The provisions set out in the Gas Act 1986 have the effect that:

‘No meter shall be used to ascertain the quantity of gas supplied through pipes to any person unless it is stamped either by, or on the authority of, a meter examiner appointed by the Secretary of State.’

In addition, a meter cannot be stamped unless it is of an approved pattern and construction.

This requirement applies to all meters for domestic, commercial and light industrial billing (i.e. meters up to a maximum flow rate of 1,600 cubic metres per hour at standard conditions of temperature and pressure).