A resident of Yekaterinburg, Tatyana, has received a utility bill exceeding 127,000 rubles due to what the “Verkh-Isetskaya” management company deemed unauthorized interference with her utility meters. The issue arose after Tatyana replaced her meters and the management company claimed she did not follow the proper procedure.

Tatyana stated that she contacted the management company about replacing her meters, but was informed that they do not provide that service. She proceeded to replace the meters herself and subsequently requested a specialist from the company to inspect the installation.

After waiting over a month, a specialist arrived and inquired about the old meters, which Tatyana had already disposed of. This led the management company to conclude that she had interfered with the meters without authorization, resulting in the hefty fine.

Dmitry Larionov, a housing and communal services expert, explained that the management company doesn’t handle meter replacements as part of their standard services. He emphasized the importance of coordinating with the management company to ensure the replacement process is correctly executed.

According to the “Verkh-Isetskaya” Management Company, the old meters must be presented during the sealing process, as required by law. Larionov outlined the correct procedure for meter replacement to avoid penalties, which involves inviting management company representatives to unseal and later seal the new meters.

Larionov noted that sometimes management companies permit independent unsealing, which would not be considered unauthorized dismantling. He stressed the need to obtain approval from a management company representative before taking any action.

While a consumer can do as they wish with their meter, Larionov clarified that agreement with the management company is essential for the meter’s readings to be considered valid for billing purposes. The management company needs assurance that the meter is functioning correctly and that its readings can be accurately recorded.