British Gas Smart meter

[CTID]

Hence why it would have to be an approved meter, as said it can be done though. I only knew of this as I know someone has supplied there own meter.

 

[davesparks]

Yes, but I guess it could be reasonable to not give permission to fit your own meter if they think you might in some way plan to use it to steal electricity.
And if that doesn't get through they can always let you fit it and then require it to be changed for one they supply due to a new company policy of requiring a certain brand or whatever of meter.

These companies will have much better lawyers than most of us can afford so they will win.

 

[davesparks]

And nowhere does it allow you to interfere with or remove their meter, they will have to do that. And it's not a case of telling them you are doing it, but seeking their permission.

 

[CTID]

Probably true in what you say but it can be done and the regulations back this is up, that is all I was offering as I entered this topic. The lad I know has had his own meter in for a few years with no issues. The only thing he has been warned is that if it is deemed his meter needs replacing he will have to have what they supply as standard or be prepared to again purchase his own meter.

 

[amckay]

I think the only illegal aspect of it is cutting the seal without prior permission which would be classed as criminal damage presuming there was criminal intent... (And assuming there is evidence that security seals were in place on that meter to back up crim damage claims).
But their meter is on YOUR property and if you don't want it on your property you simply don't have to have it there. I'm not sure whether or not its an offence to interfere with a meter (as long as your only changing it for another) but you certainly can't dispose of their property without fair warning.
God the law is complex!

 

[davesparks]

Their meter is on your property and you are quite right you don't have to have it there, but you have agreed to have it there by entering in to a contract to have them supply you with electricity.
You should ask them to remove it, not just tell them you are removing it and go ahead. If nothing else this kind of action is likely to insight a negative response.

 

[jaypp]

These companies will have much better lawyers than most of us can afford so they will win.

Unfortunately one of life's realities. The one exception I know of was a friend of my brother. He was a branch warehouse manager at a (well known) high street store, boasting the best stock audits nationwide. For some reason, his manager 'had it in for him' making his workload impossible and after some time he was 'forced' to leave (constructive dismissal).
My brother went with him to court in London for moral support, as he was representing himself against 3 QC's. He won, and apparently had them 'lost for words' at times during the hearing! This guy was/is special though (no legal training) and handy for the odd letter/phone call when needed!