Scottish Power phone call

zaksmum

I've just had a phone call from somebody claiming to be from Scottish Power, our electricity supplier. They asked me to read our electric meter while they held the line. Our meter cupboard is outside the house and Scottish Power supply a key for it to be opened.

I couldn't find the key and went back to the phone to tell them this. They said,"Can't you open it with pliers, or scissors?" I said I couldn't and they said they'd ring back tomorrow for the reading.

This has not happened before, they have always sent a meter reader or estimated bill. It seems odd that they wouldn't forewarn you of their intention to ask for a reading like this, and I'm just wondering if the call was legit.

Anyone else had such a call from Scottish Power?

Vestra

Have you recently changed supplier?

Magentasue

Have never had this - offer to e-mail a reading if you're not happy. You can do it on the website using Contact us.

Magentasue

Rian1988 wrote: »

Have you recently changed supplier?

Yes, that's a good point. Have had a call and an e-mail same time when switching.

zaksmum

Thanks everyone. No, I haven't changed supplier. It seemed realyy odd that the person who called would ask me to "get into" the meter cupboard with pliers or scissors.

Maybe I should get in touch with Scottish Power tomorrow?

Magentasue

zaksmum wrote: »

Maybe I should get in touch with Scottish Power tomorrow?

Good luck. Rumour has it they're not lightning quick on the phones. I'd email.

deanos

Have you have a run of estimates ?

Maybe they require a true reading as its not been read for a while ?

Vestra

deanos wrote: »

Have you have a run of estimates ?

Maybe they require a true reading as its not been read for a while ?

But if there meter is outside that's unlikely.

zaksmum

No run of estimates. In fact I haven't had an estimate for over 2 years now, probably because the meter is outside and is accessible whether or not there is anyone home.

I think I will email them if they are slow on the phone.

We do have a Scottish power HQ within a few minutes walk from here but they are only open weekdays for queries - it'd be quicker to walk round there than hang on the phone listening to recorded music for ages. If I don't get a response to my email by Monday I'll go round there.