Is it truly required by law to have a smart meter installed? Dean Dunham, a consumer rights lawyer, provides a response to Sylvia Hill who received information from Eon that their electric meter needs to be replaced and that it is a “legal obligation” to do so. Dunham clarifies that while energy providers have been directed by the government to install smart meters, it is not compulsory for consumers to have one. He mentions that some readers feel pressured into getting a smart meter and made to believe it is mandatory. However, Dunham states that consumers have the right to refuse their provider’s offer or insistence to install a smart meter, unless their current meter is going to become obsolete. He explains that meters installed before 2006 are considered obsolete, while those installed after 2006 can be tested for accuracy every six years. Dunham advises consumers to ask for evidence if their provider claims their meter needs to be replaced due to obsolescence or safety issues. He also suggests that if a smart meter is the only option and the consumer is not comfortable with it, they can ask for it to be set up in “dumb” mode, which disables its smart functions and allows for manual reading.
In another question, Jeff Richardson asks if he has the right to withhold part of his council tax payment due to a binmen strike affecting refuse collection. Dunham explains that the Consumer Rights Act does not apply in this case, as council tax legislation does not create a service contract between local authorities and residents. Therefore, a reduction in services does not automatically entitle Jeff to a reduction in his council tax bill. However, Dunham suggests making a complaint to the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman as a potential route of redress.
To contact Dean Dunham with further questions or concerns, readers can write to him at Money Mail, Scottish Daily Mail, 20 Waterloo Street, Glasgow G2 6DB or email him at [email protected].
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