Frequently asked questions

A tampered meter is unsafe for those in the property and maybe their neighbours too. If you are aware of meter tampering it is your duty as a responsible citizen to report it. This can be via calling the anonymous stayenergysafe reporting line on 0800 023 2777 or by filling out the anonymous online form.

You can report energy theft using the anonymous form on this site, or call the stayenergysafe reporting line on 0800 023 2777 and speak directly to a person to report it anonymously.

After you make a report, the relevant energy supplier will be notified. Each supplier has its own way of dealing with energy theft. The meter may need to be inspected by a professional and will be removed or exchanged if there is a risk to public safety.

The Crimestoppers’ promise says that:

• You can give information about crime without giving any personal details.
• We will not write down your gender, accent or apparent age.
• We will not write down any personal details you do happen to mention.
• We will make sure the information you give cannot identify you.
• We will not record your phone call.
• We will never know your phone number or location.

If you are reporting a case of energy theft and are not responsible for the crime you will not be liable for prosecution.

Gas and electricity theft take place across the whole of the UK in both residential and commercial properties. This page shows you more about how energy theft is happening throughout the UK.

Anyone inside a building that has an illegally tampered or bypassed meter as well as those in adjacent properties. Families and neighbours or in commercial premises employees and members of the public are all placed at risk by energy theft. Read about real stories of energy theft here.

Energy theft happens when people bypass or tamper with their meters or energy supply. The dangers of this include damage to property, injury, and in extreme cases loss of life. Millions of pounds are stolen each year, adding more than £20 to the average annual household bill.
Energy theft costs us 
Energy theft: the impact on household bills

Energy theft is perceived to be a victimless crime but by tampering with a meter, or bypassing it completely, it can have serious implications by causing damage to people and property. It also has financial implications, and can increase your fuel bill by up to £20 each year. This page shows you more about how energy theft is happening throughout the UK.

Crimestoppers will write a report based on the information you provide which is sent to the relevant energy company. It is also stored on a database at Crimestoppers’ call centre for a year, to allow action to be taken. Crimestoppers may keep reports for longer if they are needed for an ongoing investigation.

You should check your meters and take regular readings to review your bills and consumption levels. You should not let anybody near your meter unless you have checked their identity and confirmed they are from your supplier or network operator. If you have any suspicions about any of the properties that you and your family visit often, such as a friend’s house or a café, then you should report it anonymously.

There may be signs to suggest that energy theft is happening around you. If you have heard people in your community saying they can save you money on your gas or electricity bills, or if your landlord doesn’t allow you to access the meter in your rented property, or if you are concerned that your boss doesn’t pay anything for their gas or electricity bills, you should report it anonymously.

Electricity meter tampering can cause electrical fires and electrocutions. To find out more about the danger of electricity theft click here.

Although it can be hard to spot the signs of electricity theft, here are some things to look out for. This list is not exhaustive and if you have suspicions of anything that is not on the list below you should still always report it:

• The meter casing may be smashed, broken or removed completely and the cables disconnected
• Wires sticking out or wrapped around and connector clips attaching them to the meter
• Parts of the plastic casing melted or scorch and burn marks on the meter
• Meter shows credit has run out but electricity is still available
• Dials on the meter aren’t going around even when electricity is being used
• A smell of something burning or even smoke or sparks near the meter box

Gas explosions can happen when as little as 5-15% of gas gets mixed into the surrounding air in a room. If a gas meter is tampered with it can cause gas leaks within a property which risk fires and catastrophic explosions. To find out more about the danger of gas theft click here.

Although it can be hard to spot the signs of gas theft, here are some things to look out for. This list is not exhaustive and if you have suspicions of anything that is not on the list below you should still always report it:

• A meter that’s been turned around the wrong way so you can’t see the normal dials
• A smell of gas near the meter box
• Where pipes should be there are bits of rubber tubing instead
• There’s no visible dial or counter on the meter any more
• Meter shows credit has run out but gas is still available
• Dials on the meter aren’t going around even when gas is being used

You should be able to access your meter. If you require a key to access your meter you will need to speak with your landlord, letting agent or local council housing department. If you are concerned about a burning smell from the location where the meter is fitted, hot wires or flickering lights, you should call your local network operator immediately. They will arrange for an emergency appointment.

You should be aware of anything that seems unusual, for example if you hear comments that cause you concern, or if there is physical evidence to suggest meter tampering, for example if the meter is boxed in and inaccessible. If you suspect anything you should report it anonymously.

If you are a tenant in a multi-occupancy dwelling it is worthwhile checking the status of your meter and taking readings when you move into the property and on a regular basis. Is the meter registering electricity consumption?

You should be aware of anything that seems unusual, for example if you hear comments that cause you concern, or if there is physical evidence to suggest meter tampering, for example if the meter is boxed in and inaccessible. You may also be cautious of tenants who wish to pay large cash deposit and rental payments up front to avoid regular visits. As a landlord you should carry out regular inspections of the property to look out for any signs.

If you are suspicious of anything you should report it anonymously.

If a smart meter is tampered with is can still be unsafe and should be reported.

You can call your local network operator to find out who your electricity supplier is. Please click here for more information.

You can visit the online service Find My Supplier to find out who your gas supplier is. Alternatively, you can call the Meter Number Helpline on 0870 608 1524. Please note that calls cost 7p per minute, plus your phone company’s access charge.

When you bypass your electricity meter, exposed wires can cause electric shocks and burns. If you bypass a meter, electrical switches or appliances can become live, which can increase the risk of electrocution and fire in the property. Bypassing a meter with the intention of reducing your electricity bill, or to use electricity free of charge, is a serious crime.
Why you shouldn't bypass your meter

The penalty if you are caught stealing electricity by tampering with your electricity supply or electricity meter is huge. As well as repaying what you owe, you could receive a fine or go to prison. People who steal energy are committing a criminal offence, and putting their loved ones in danger.
What is the punishment for electricity theft?
Stealing electricity – key facts

Your gas meter could be located inside or outside your home. Make sure you check outside your property at the front or on the side. Alternatively, it could be in your kitchen in a meter box, below the stairs or in a utility room. If you are a tenant, in a block of flats, have a business or multi-family residence, your meter is probably located inside the building in a shared location. If you still can’t find it, ask your letting agent or landlord.
Learn more about your gas meter

In an emergency, it’s important to know who to call. If there’s a power outage or electrical fault you should call 105. If you smell gas, think you have a gas leak or are concerned about gas fumes, call 0800 111 999. Alternatively, call your network operator on their emergency 24-hour number.
What to do in an emergency