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Gas card snapped off in meter

HAbod
HAbod Posts: 12 Forumite
Name Dropper First Post
Hi all,

I'm supporting a client who has their gas supply capped as their payment card has snapped off in the meter which means they can't top-up. They've accumulated a bit of debt from standing charges, but it is at a manageable level. 

Does anyone know who would be responsible for fixing this? My guy says it is the supplier as they are responsible for the meter but I can see them saying "well, the meter is actually working fine, it's just got a card stuck in it...".  

Haven't spoken to the supplier yet (I still need to contact the DNO to identify who supplies the property) but if anyone has experience of or insight into this situation I'd be grateful for some assistance! 

Cheers

Comments

  • kazwookie
    kazwookie Posts: 14,037 Forumite
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    Would a very small thin pair of tweezers be able to gentle pull the card out of the machine?
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  • tacpot12
    tacpot12 Posts: 8,861 Forumite
    Eighth Anniversary 1,000 Posts Name Dropper
    If the card can't be withdrawn from the meter, then the meter is definitely faulty. (Cards can normally be withdrawn from the meter). 

    Kazwookie's suggestion about trying to remove the card (gently) is probably the best solution. Tweezers might not have the gripping power. A pair of needle-nosed pliers would be my go-to tool. 
    The comments I post are my personal opinion. While I try to check everything is correct before posting, I can and do make mistakes, so always try to check official information sources before relying on my posts.
  • bagand96
    bagand96 Posts: 6,329 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 1,000 Posts Name Dropper
    No need to talk to the DNO to find the supplier: Find My Supplier
  • HAbod
    HAbod Posts: 12 Forumite
    Name Dropper First Post
    Thanks all, will have a look at the meter when I visit the client and see if it is retrievable.
  • HAbod
    HAbod Posts: 12 Forumite
    Name Dropper First Post
    update - haven't been able to get hold of the client to arrange a home visit, hoping to arrange for next week.
  • SAC2334
    SAC2334 Posts: 840 Forumite
    500 Posts Third Anniversary Name Dropper
    Will need a new meter. It will be a smart meter .They will not even bother to repair it .Card meters all need replacing anyway. Phone supplier asap .
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