Crimestoppers has initiated a public awareness campaign titled “Stay Energy Safe” to educate tenants on detecting energy theft by landlords. The charity highlights the extreme measures some unscrupulous landlords will take to overcharge or endanger their tenants, emphasizing the serious risks involved, including fire hazards, electrocution, and even gas leaks which could result in explosions.

The Dangers of Meter Tampering
The campaign stresses that tampering with meters can disrupt the normal supply of gas, potentially causing hazardous leaks and the dangerous production of carbon monoxide from improperly functioning appliances. A spokesperson from the campaign stated, “It’s important to make sure that you don’t ever touch a meter that you suspect has been tampered with, as it could be extremely dangerous and result in casualties and fatalities.”

Empowering Tenants
The aim of the campaign is to empower tenants by making them aware of their rights and the signs of foul play. The spokesperson added, “Regardless of whether you are a homeowner or not, every person has a right to feel safe in their home, and every tenant has the right to know exactly what they are paying for each month.”

Five Signs of Energy Theft by Landlords

1. Bills Included in Rent: While sometimes legitimate, Crimestoppers warns that this arrangement can sometimes allow landlords to manipulate energy usage readings while charging tenants standard rates.
2. Restricted Meter Access: Tenants should be wary if they are denied access to their energy meters, as this could mean the landlord is hiding evidence of tampering.
3. Refusal to Install Smart Meters: Landlords who handle property bills and refuse to install smart meters might be attempting to avoid digital tracking of actual energy usage.
4. Faulty Meter Displays: Meters that display irregularities, such as backward-running dials or static figures, might have been tampered with.
5. Visible Tampering Signs: Tenants should regularly check their meters for any signs of interference, such as exposed wires or unusual fittings, and report any irregularities.

The campaign encourages tenants and residents to report suspicious activities to Crimestoppers, underlining that tackling energy theft is a collective responsibility critical for the safety and rights of all tenants.