Utility meter readings

bradybunch · Post by **bradybunch** » Mon Mar 24, 2008 4:41 pm

We have had an apartment in Carvoeiro for the past 2 years.We pay our utility bills by direct debit. No one ever seems to read the meters or leave cards like they do in the UK, to unable us to send an up to date reading in, therefore all the bills are estimated. Can anyone advise us of the best way of sorting out wether we are in credit, which I suspect we are. We always take readings when we go out , but that is only 3 or 4 times a year.

Alison · Post by **Alison** » Mon Mar 24, 2008 5:56 pm

I think you will find a few previous threads on this further down the list - some related to water but I'm sure there was one on electricity as well - only surprised that MC hasn't pointed it out to you yet - maybe he's on holiday?!
EDP only read meters once a year then use that reading to base their 12 monthly payment from you - if you end up using more than the monthly payments cover (and, funny that, you usually do) you then get whacked with the extra in one lump sum debit in July - it can be a nasty shock! Water they read the meter and take their debit every 2 months -the direct debit taken reflects the amount used.

flying fish · Post by **flying fish** » Mon Mar 24, 2008 6:16 pm

So that would be the reason that we get charged a similar amount for electricity and water in November/December even though we, (or anyone else) have hardly been in our apartment..... interesting thought.

Gambrinus · Post by **Gambrinus** » Mon Mar 24, 2008 6:38 pm

If the water meter is on the outside of the property, the meter should be read on a regular basis and the bills should reflect the actual consumption. If you find that you have consumption in periods when there should not be any at all, then you may have a leak or someone is using water without your consent (exterior taps can be an invitation to water theft)

To the best of my knowledge, the EDP rarely reads the meters themselves (once or twice per year, tops), so they base an estimate on the readings they have - they only way to get real consumption invoices is to phone in the reading every few months.

bradybunch · Post by **bradybunch** » Mon Mar 24, 2008 6:47 pm

Many thanks for your helpful replies.I have just checked the EDP website and you can submit regular meter readings to up date your bill
http://www.edp.pt/EDPI/Internet/EN/Grou ... adings.htm

VON VON · Post by **VON VON** » Thu Mar 27, 2008 5:00 pm

you can also phone the number on the bill to make an adjustment to payments, we just read the meter whenever we are over and either submit to EDP office or phone it in.

direct debit adjusted accordingly.