Changing Tariffs

hollie.weimeraner

It's coming to the time when I need to search for  tariffs again.  Since I did this last time some companies are now making some tariffs available only with a smart meter which I've been unwilling to accept.
Anyway my question is, as I live in an area that doesn't get a phone signal, if I pick a tariff that requires a smart meter and it can't connect, will I be penalised through no fault of my own?

Cardew

They will put you on the tariff and attempt to fit a smart meter at a later date. Although the coronavirus situation might complicate matters when it comes to fitting.

MWT

As long as you do nothing to frustrate their attempts to fit working smart meters then it is unlikely that you would be forced off of the tariff you have chosen.

The only real risk is that if your post code is already flagged as unsuitable for smart meters then you may get denied right at the start, but at least you would know up front. 

hollie.weimeraner

Yes but they won't be able to connect it if it uses a mobile signal as I'm in a mobile blackspot

MWT

hollie.weimeraner said:

Yes but they won't be able to connect it if it uses a mobile signal as I'm in a mobile blackspot

That is what you want though isn't it?

As long as you let them try and fail without getting in the way (refusing appointments etc. ) then the failure is on them and you are likely to be allowed to stay on the tariff.

hollie.weimeraner

MWT said:

hollie.weimeraner said:

Yes but they won't be able to connect it if it uses a mobile signal as I'm in a mobile blackspot

That is what you want though isn't it?

As long as you let them try and fail without getting in the way (refusing appointments etc. ) then the failure is on them and you are likely to be allowed to stay on the tariff.

Hmm I think I'd probably have to get that in writing

Gerry1

hollie.weimeraner said:

Yes but they won't be able to connect it if it uses a mobile signal as I'm in a mobile blackspot

Don't rely on that, especially if you're not on O2.  Mesh networks can also be used, and in the North they don't use the mobile phone network.

However, the smart meter project is so shambolic (and even further delayed by corona virus) that before they get a Round Tuit it'll be time for you to switch again!

MWT

The bottom line here is that if you pick a smart meter tariff and they are able to get it working then you will have a smart meter, if that isn't something you are prepared to risk then don't pick a tariff that requires a smart meter...

Also keep in mind that even if they can't get it working, they are not going to put your old meter back so you'll just have a 'dumb' smart meter fitted...