How is PG&E checking our meter if the the back yard is locked?

Question

We supposedly have a smart meter - but we were told (when we moved in three months ago) that the gate needed to be unlocked so they could come in an check the meter. We've never unlocked the gate - but we still get the bill!

1Either they are guessing

2They are looking at our meter from the yard next to us or

3They are using the Smart Meter

I'm kind of freaked out that one day PG&E will get into the back yard and discover that they have been undercharging us for all of the time that we lived here! So we would end up with a huge bill! Wouldn't that be a b*tch!

Answer 1

On your bill they should list the previous months reading, and the current reading.  Go out to the meter and if it's reading a little higher than what is listed- your good.  They're using the smart meter.

Is that Gas or Electric?

You can always check your account online or call them.

Answer 2

Usually they guess based on past usage. Mine was locked and that's what they told me. I never got a huge bill when I moved out and gave them a final reading.

Isn't PG&E the company from Erin Brocovich?

Answer 3

they are making a rough estimate

this is what they do when they dont gain access to your property, they need payment for their service and the only way they can do this is if they make an estimate

they should also tell you how they worked out the bill payment

you can go check your metres and if you feel unsatisfied with the amount they are asking for then all you do is phone them and give them the numbers of your metre and they will resend you a bill

Answer 4

check your last reading against bill if its close no problem-if its way off-you will owe the difference one day