FAQ
TL;DR: For sub‑meters, create a simple sealing protocol logging 4 basics (date, meter number, reading, seal number). “You can write down the protocol you want.” [Elektroda, mawerix123, post #16645997]
Why it matters: This FAQ helps installers and landlords document sub‑meter seals clearly so disputes and tampering claims don’t derail billing.
Quick Facts
- Utility meters are sealed by the operator; sub‑meters are sealed only if parties agree. [Elektroda, zbich70, post #16645660]
- Minimum protocol fields: date, meter ID, current reading, seal ID; make 2–3 copies. [Elektroda, mawerix123, post #16645997]
- Use numbered, tamper‑evident seals that cannot be removed without damage. [Elektroda, mawerix123, post #16646171]
- Pre‑marked seals without unique sealer identification are considered weak controls. [Elektroda, retrofood, post #16646104]
- Protocol signed by the fitter and both parties is sufficient confirmation. [Elektroda, Darom, post #16646263]
Do I need a protocol when I seal a sub‑meter?
Yes. For sub‑metering, document the seal with a simple protocol. Include date, meter number, current reading, and seal number. Prepare two or three copies for the seller, buyer, and your records. Sign as the fitter; both parties should also sign. “You can write down the protocol you want.” [Elektroda, mawerix123, post #16645997]
Who is responsible for sealing the utility meter versus a sub‑meter?
The distribution operator seals the main settlement meter. Sub‑meters used for internal billing are sealed—or not—based on agreement between the involved parties. Operator seals and procedures do not apply to private sub‑metering. [Elektroda, zbich70, post #16645660]
What fields must I include in a sub‑meter sealing protocol?
Record at least four items: date of sealing, meter identification, current meter reading, and unique seal number. Create two or three identical copies. Sign as the installer, and obtain signatures from both parties receiving and paying for energy. [Elektroda, mawerix123, post #16645997]
What kind of seal should I use on a sub‑meter?
Use a numbered, tamper‑evident seal that shows damage if removed. This enables you to record a unique identifier and detect interference. Plastic indicator seals with serial numbers are common for this purpose. [Elektroda, mawerix123, post #16646171]
Are pre‑marked plastic seals acceptable?
Pre‑marked seals without unique sealer identification are weak controls. Strong practice is to ensure the sealer’s unique identification is described in the report, so forgery is difficult. [Elektroda, retrofood, post #16646104]
Where can I buy seals for sub‑meters?
Buy tamper‑evident indicator seals from electrical stores or wholesalers. Ensure each seal has a unique number suitable for recording in your protocol and on handover documents. [Elektroda, dj szefunio, post #16645696]
What should I inscribe or imprint on the seal?
Do not rely only on factory markings. Your protocol should reference the seal’s unique number and, if used, your unique sealer identification described in the report. This links the physical seal and documentation. [Elektroda, retrofood, post #16646104]
How many copies of the sealing protocol should I make?
Make two or even three copies: one for you (the fitter/installer), one for the energy seller, and one for the buyer/tenant. All copies should be signed identically. [Elektroda, mawerix123, post #16645997]
Is a formal, standardized template required by regulations?
No specific standardized form is required in this context. A clear, signed protocol with the key fields and copies for each party is sufficient confirmation of proper sealing. [Elektroda, Darom, post #16646263]
How do I actually seal and document a sub‑meter? (3‑step How‑To)
- Install a numbered tamper‑evident seal so removal causes visible damage. 2. Record date, meter ID, reading, and seal number; prepare 2–3 copies. 3. Sign as fitter and collect signatures from both parties; hand out copies. [Elektroda, mawerix123, post #16645997]
Can I use the utility company’s seals on my sub‑meter?
No. Utility seals are applied only by the operator’s staff to the settlement meter. Sub‑meter seals and rules depend on the agreement between the private parties. [Elektroda, zbich70, post #16645660]
What if I skip sealing and just trust the tenant?
Sealing is optional for sub‑metering and reflects trust between parties. If trust is low, use a seal and protocol; if trust is absent, consider not reselling energy. [Elektroda, zbich70, post #16645791]
What’s an acceptable tamper‑evidence standard here?
Choose seals that cannot be removed without damage and have a unique serial number. “Important that it has a number that can be written down and could not be removed without damage.” [Elektroda, mawerix123, post #16646171]
Edge case: Are factory pre‑numbered seals safe against forgery?
Risk remains if the sealer’s unique identification is not captured. Mitigate by documenting the identification marks of the sealer’s imprint within the protocol, as forging plain pre‑marks is easier. [Elektroda, retrofood, post #16646104]
What’s a practical statistic I can use to audit installs later?
Track the four recorded fields per install and the number of copies issued. Audits can confirm that 2–3 copies and all four fields were completed for each sealing event. [Elektroda, mawerix123, post #16645997]
If I follow these steps, is anything else needed to be compliant?
No additional paperwork is needed for private sub‑meter sealing beyond a clear, signed protocol capturing the essentials and party signatures. [Elektroda, Darom, post #16646263]
