Tenant access to electric meter

[ncfc_1902]

We're renting a flat and have been denied access to our electric meter, however I've recently started a new job with an energy supplier and I've been advised by numerous people that we have a legal right to access our meter on safety grounds. Before I go to our letting agent can anyone confirm if this is correct or not?

Thanks

[annie123]

long time since I worked in lettings but up to 2 years ago yes you have a right to access if that was where the off lever is ( you may have to turn it off) and if you are paying the electric bill to confirm the meter reading.

If the agent knows where the meter is and has access and refuses to let you have access, report him to the ombudsman scheme if they are members and the local council environmental health dept.
It could become a safety risk to others in the building if you cant turn it off.

[Cardew]

I may be wrong but I doubt if it is a legal right to have permanent access, but clearly you should be able to arrange with the landlord/letting agent to read your meters.

There have been numerous posts on MSE about tenants having difficulty in accessing the meters for the building when they are in a locked room. The 'excuse' is that if all tenants had access, they could interfere with supplies.

[PNPSUKNET]

You have a right to see the reads off your meter, however if in a room with multiple supplys your agent may need to escort you