Severn Trent using Actual Readings from a Meter that is not there

ColinD1

I hope this is a one off.

We live in Malvern that was part of an experiment where every house had a meter. Our house was built around 60 years ago and would have had a meter fitted when new. We have lived there for over 40 years.
The last bill from "actual reading" to "actual eading" had jumped approximately four fold. They even sent us a letter to say the consumption was not out of the ordinary, but suggesting t check for leaks.

We managed to lift the very heavy cover and took a reading and a picture of the meter,

The last two "actual" readings where in 2530 and 2604, but the picture was 250.

I was a bit slow in the response in the phone call. The person said our meter had been installed in 1995 or thereabouts so I assume needing to be read physically.

The meter looked newer than that and I assume capable of being read remotely by the passing meter reader.

I can think of no reason this is not a problem of Severn Trent's making, but they have asked us to book an uncessary How  Property is Supplied Visit! I have suggested they do a simple site visit where they will see the pipe going up the drive to our house with a meter that does not match their records.

Anyone had a similar problem and a way to speed a resolution? I have a draft formal complaint letter in hand to allow me to take it outside the Severn Trent organisation if necessary.