Energy watchdog Ofgem issued a fresh warning to UK households
Penalties include fines and up to five years in prison (stock image)(Image: Getty)
UK households are being reminded by Ofgem of an illegal action that could not only be “dangerous” but also is the cause of “one death every 10 days”. In a fresh alert posted today (March 16), the energy regulator warned Brits of the risks of meter tampering.
It said: “Tampering with your meter is illegal and could be dangerous. Meter tampering causes one death every 10 days in the UK.” Tampering with a utility meter is against the law. According to Ofgem, some people may try to pay less for their gas and electricity by tampering with their meters, which is known as energy theft.
It says: “Meter tampering is illegal and dangerous. It can cause property damage, injury or death. Energy theft also costs energy consumers in Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales) over £1.4 billion a year.”
Ofgem urges homeowners to be careful of anyone who says they can lower your energy bills by changing your meter. There are some common signs of meter tampering to watch for, including:
- pipes that look out of place
- dials that are not moving or visible
- gas supply with no credit on prepayment meters
- the meter is back to front with no dials showing
- the smell of gas near the meter box
- rubber piping that should be metallic
Common signs of electricity meter tampering include:
- wires sticking out, wrapped around or added with clips
- damaged casing
- electricity supply with no credit on prepayment meters
- a burning smell
- smoke or sparks near the meter
Tampering with meters can create a lot of problems that might damage property, hurt people, or even lead to death. When someone messes with a gas meter, it can cause gas leaks, breathing issues, passing out, house fires, and explosions from appliances or light switches.
On the other hand, tampering with electricity meters can lead to overheating, meter problems, shocks and burns, electrocution, and house fires. Smart meters usually have security features that can track and report any unauthorised tampering.
If you are caught, Ofgem warns of fines and possible jail time. It says: “Energy theft is a serious crime with severe consequences. Penalties include fines and up to five years in prison.”
A person in the UK was previously jailed for 15 years for manslaughter related to a gas explosion caused by meter tampering. Darren Greenham, who was jailed in October 2022 following the fatal explosion in Heysham, Lancashire.
Greenham’s property was destroyed, and neighbouring houses were severely damaged. Two-year-old George Hinds was killed in his bedroom in the adjacent house.
If you suspect someone has tampered with a meter, you can report it anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers’ service, Stay Energy Safe. You can report online or call them on 0800 023 2777. If you smell gas, you should leave the property immediately and call emergency services.
