Is meter tampering a crime?

Electricity theft or electricity meter tampering is a serious crime and it not only affects consumers and suppliers, but it also affects innocent third parties if the meters are being swapped.

Can electric meters be tampered with?

Tampering with an electricity meter could lead to a short circuit, wiring overheating or even a fire. Wiring that seems safe can become ‘live’, so there’s a chance of a fatal electric shock. Tampering with a gas meter could cause a gas leak.

Can the electric company tell if I steal power?

Originally Answered: Can the electric company tell if I steal power? yes they can.

How do I know if my electric meter has been tampered with?

Damage to your meter.

Look out for things like scorch or burn marks, a burning smell, loose or strange wiring, or even sparks. This is a strong indication that your meter has been tampered with.

Can an electric meter be manipulated?

Electric meter tampering is one of those topics that no one talks about much, yet it is a fact of life experienced by all utilities. It existed with the older electromechanical meters, and it exists today with smart meters. The challenge is that it’s extremely difficult, if not impossible, to stop all tampering.

Will a magnet slow down your electric meter?

Tamperers say that strategically placed magnets can slow the spinning metal wheel that measures consumption in old-style analog meters. New digital smart meters are not influenced by magnets, experts say. Utilities do not take magnets lightly, Texas plumber James Hutcheson learned in 2014.

Where do I report meter tampering?

If you see/know of any instances of meter tampering, report them to Eskom immediately on 08600 37566 (ESKOM).

Can a meter reading be wrong?

Your supplier might have underestimated your energy bills if you didn’t give them a regular meter reading. They use these meter readings to give you accurate bills based on the energy you’ve used. … If you still think there’s something wrong with the bill, you can complain to your supplier.

How do you know if someone is stealing your electricity?

For electricity to be stolen, somebody must tap into your system, most likely between your electric meter and the spot where your main electrical wires enter your house. … If you see a wire going from your house to your neighbor’s, its a good indication that electricity is being stolen.