Energy theft

[AnneShirley18]

Not really an AIBU, more a request for you to help me to stay calm and reasonable and tell me what to do next.
I have smart meter in flat so haven't had occasion to go into communal electricity meter cupboard in years. After a few high bills (higher than the cost of living crisis would account for and not in line with the little time I have spent there in recent months) I went into cupboard to see if meter was malfunctioning only to find a crude connection to another meter.
I've been in contact with energy company and forwarded pictures. Has anyone experienced the what happens next? Thanks

Take photos and date them send recorded signed for. Call the police as it's theft. It's also potentially unsafe.

Yes I wasn't sure if it was police worthy as theft sadly isn't anymore but there is risk to life I suppose. Thank you

I agree with calling the police, it is a crime. They should attend with someone from national grid or whoever who can trace who is benefiting from this and act accordingly and make it safe.

Should add, my friend is a landlord. When a tenant set up a cannabis farm, they were taking electricity from next door’s supply, all very dangerous and illegal, the police were very interested

Call the police. Take photos and call your landlord.

Would think energy company will come pronto. By passing a meter could cause a fire.

Phone the emergency number for your supplier and tell them your meter has an over ride and is unsafe. They need to send someone out ASAP. You need that addressed before the Police side. It could be dangerous

I've called the crime stoppers stay safe energy hotline and they're calling me back to make arrangements Thanks everyone! Until about 3 hours ago I didn't know evergy could be stolen. I feel very naive now!

If you have managing agents for the flats I would let them know as this is a safety issue and needs investigating asap.

As pp advises, take plenty of photos so you have evidence. Chase the electricity company to visit asap and tell you which flat is connected to your meter, if they don't treat this matter urgently then consider suspending payment until they have investigated and put right. I would phone Citizens Advice to check your rights and what action you can take to recoup the money you have been defrauded out of.

By rights the energy company should be be taking legal action against the thieving bastards who are stealing from you and ensuring you are refunded, but I suspect that as long as they are being paid and are not out of pocket themselves they will need a good kick up the backside to sort out, which is why CAB is a good idea for advice on your rights.

If you have legal cover with your house insurance then phone them also for advice. Arm yourself with as much info as possible so that the energy company know you that you know your rights and will not be fobbed off.

Good luck Op.