A lot of people think energy theft is “no big deal” or that “everyone does it.”
But tampered meters can cause fires, explosions, and fatal electric shocks.
And the cost of stolen energy doesn’t disappear — it’s passed straight on to you and other bill-payers.
Shortcuts with meter systems can lead to long-term hazards. Don’t get caught out by thinking this is a short-term fix to bringing down your bills, someone could die. It’s never worth it.
Tampering with your meter isn’t harmless. Some people think that because it’s their home, they can ‘fix’ or adjust the meter themselves — but touching the meter or main service can put you, your family, and your neighbours at serious risk of fire, explosions or fatal electric shock. No one can legally tamper with a meter.
If anyone, including an electrician, offers to ‘reduce your bills’ by replacing, adjusting or interfering with your meter or mains cable, they are not providing a cheaper service, it is energy theft - illegal, dangerous, and a serious risk to live. A lower price is never worth the danger.
Confidence doesn’t prevent gas leaks or explosions. Tampering with gas systems is unsafe, illegal, and endangers everyone nearby.
Even experienced people can make dangerous mistakes. Any form of meter tampering puts homes and families at serious risk.
The harm from energy theft is all around you.
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Tampering with electricity meters to save money is extremely dangerous. Look out for these signs. If you spot any of these signs, report them 100% anonymously.
Meter reading does not increase when electricity is being used, or screen is blank
Meter shows credit has run out, but electricity is still available
A burning smell, smoke, or sparks near the meter
Cables or wires that are bare, twisted together or connected in an unusual way
Meter casing, screws or cables may be broken, missing, melted or have burn marks. Cables may have been disconnected
Meter is missing or has been replaced without authorisation
Gas meter cheating can take many forms, even smart meters can be unsafe if tampered with. Sometimes it can be hard to tell but here are some clues to look out for around your meter. If you spot any of these signs, report them 100% anonymously.
Meter is facing backwards so display is unreadable, or pipes have been connected the wrong way round.
Meter shows credit has run out, but gas is still available
Meter is missing or has been replaced without authorisation.
Rubber tubing or metal pipes are around or in place of the meter
No visible dial or counter, and there may be a hole or cogs showing. Reading doesn’t increase with gas use, or screen is blank – even when button is pressed
A smell of gas near the meter box
If you spot energy theft anywhere, speak up anonymously now.
Or Call 0800 023 2777
