to refuse to allow my meter to be read

[artyjools]

I'm usually an accommodating sort of person. I like people, I know some have hard jobs, I prefer to help someone than not, but I refused to allow a guy in to read my gas & electricity meters yesterday.

Once upon a time, my meters would be read about once or twice a year. We pay by DD, we are never in arrears, we have never had a problem with bills. Over the last 2 or 3 years, readings have become increasingly common. Now, I have someone coming about every 6 weeks and it hacks me off.

I know exectly what is happening as one of the guys told me. The work is franchised out and the companies that carry out the meter reading have targets of reading so many meters per month. I work part time and then largely from home, so I am usually around during the day. I am guessing that my name is on a list which says I am usually in, hence the ridiculously high number of calls. I've had enough of needlessly having my train of thought disturbed. No more Mrs Nice Girl!!!!

lnc100 - I think part of the "big deal" is whether someone feels vulnerable having a stranger come to visit. I know I'd give someone a verbal shock if they came to my door at 7.15 to read a meter in the house, though have some sympathy that many people could be out during the day, so they have to try when they can...

woa 715 never saw that woouldnt be happy am or pm at that time get outa here

That one was a.m. but I have had notes telling me that United Utilities would come to exchange my meter, and setting an 'appointment slot' from 08.00 to 20.00 in the past, which really screws up the whole day if they come after 18.00 (as he did).

Brit Gas has now switched to use Siemens here in N Wales, so it remains to be seen what 'slots' they might offer.

NB some others think that 'up to 21.00' is going to be OK with the householder (eg TV Licencing, Council staff re Electoral Roll).