Landlord and tenant smart meter guide

Smart meters help you to get accurate meter readings and pay the right amount for your gas and electricity. However, the rules for installing one differ for landlords and tenants. Read on to find out why.

Smart meter guide for landlords and tenants

Smart meters are all the rage at the moment. They’re forever in the news and hopefully, for the government’s carbon emissions targets, they’ll be in our homes and there to stay. For tenants and landlords, the rules for installing smart meters are slightly different. Read on to find out why.

Smart meter guide for tenants

Do I need my landlord’s permission to install a smart meter?

It depends. If the bills are in your name i.e. you actually pay the bills for the property, then legally you don’t need your landlord’s permission to install a smart meter. You also won’t need your landlord’s permission to switch suppliers.

However, for peace of mind and to stay in his or her good books, it’s recommended that you inform them of your decision to get a smart meter before it's installed.  

If your landlord pays the bills or your rent is all-inclusive, then you will need permission from him or her. 

There is a further caveat, however. Even if you pay the bills, your tenancy agreement may include a clause preventing the “structural alteration” of the property. In such cases, the permission of the landlord will be needed. 

Smart meter guide for landlords

As a landlord can I insist on my tenants to install a smart meter even if they pay the bills?

You can if it’s specified in the letting contract. However, if they pay the bills, you’ll need to ask your tenants before you do. Why not highlight the benefits of smart meters to your property’s occupants? If the positives outweigh the negatives then you might reach an agreement.

Switch your energy supplier

To get the best deals, you need to switch energy providers. Compare energy deals and see how much you could save on your next energy bill.