Do I need a smart meter fitting in order to get a variable direct debit set up?

kurtvonn

Just coming to end of fixed rate with Eon Next and have asked can they put me on variable direct debit. They're saying they can do it if I have actual meter readings but obvs for this will need smart meter fitting.

Anyone on a variable direct debit based on their own meter readings? If so who with? I'm in the nort west of England.

[Deleted User]

Hi,

no, you don't need a smart meter, you just need to read your own meter for an actual meter reading.

They will want an actual reading before they can give you a bill, but will usually email you to provide a reading.

pseudodox

I am in NW England and recently moved to EDF because they offer monthly whole billing.  Not on a smart meter - they just either ask me to submit readings (which I do once per month, usually before they have even reminded me) or they reserve the option of setting a default Fixed DD amount which they can take if you do not submit readings any perticular month.  This amount will of course eventually get reconciled next time you have an accurate bill based on readings.

Even if I do eventually move to a smart meter I shall still take my own regular readings and enter into my spreadsheet to then compare with any bills generated. Is it easy to access your meters?  If so then no necessity for smart ones unless you want them.  I have no issue reading mine as they are in a position I walk past everyday so I do note them more often than the required once per month for submission.

Pdman

I was on Shell's variable DD for years with dumb meters. I just gave them monthly readings.

pochase

You don't need them, it just saves you from submitting the required monthly reading.

But you should be doing that anyway no matter what payment form.

Mstty

The customer service person you have spoken to us wrong, point that out and be forceful in what you want and raise a complaint if they refuse.

[Deleted User]

Hi,

kurtvonn said:

Just coming to end of fixed rate with Eon Next and have asked can they put me on variable direct debit. They're saying they can do it if I have actual meter readings but obvs for this will need smart meter fitting.

Mstty said:

The customer service person you have spoken to us wrong, point that out and be forceful in what you want and raise a complaint if they refuse.

as I understood it, the c/s didn't say OP would need a smart meter, only that actual readings would be needed.

The OP has taken that to mean a smart meter, but usually on VDD supplier asks for an actual meter reading before providing bill.