FAQ
TL;DR: PLN 16 000 maximum penalty and a likely PLN 3 500 fine show “the penalty they will impose on you is probably 3.5 thousand”[Elektroda, Krzysztof Reszka, #16753784]; suppliers treat broken fuse seals as potential theft[Elektroda, kazo.m, post #16755146]
Why it matters: accidental tampering can trigger hefty fees and even criminal suspicion.
Quick Facts
• Official resealing after prior notice: PLN 35–50[Elektroda, kazo.m, #16753130; Elektroda, kowal011, #16755099]
• Unauthorised seal break penalty: PLN 3 500–16 000+[Elektroda, Krzysztof Reszka, #16753784; Elektroda, kazo.m, #16755146]
• Reconnection fee (tariff G): Approx. PLN 123 net[Tauron Tariff, 2023]
• Supplier must restore power within 48 h after payment confirmation[Elektroda, kazo.m, post #16753099]
• At least one written reminder precedes legal disconnection[Elektroda, retrofood, post #16753399]
When can the power company lawfully disconnect me for non-payment?
Polish suppliers send at least one written reminder, then a warning. Only after the deadline lapses can they disconnect power[Elektroda, retrofood, post #16753399] Energy Law Art. 6b requires a 30-day grace period before interruption[Ustawa Prawo energetyczne, 2022].
What does official resealing cost?
If you report a blown fuse and wait for their technician, resealing costs PLN 35–50, depending on region[Elektroda, kazo.m, #16753130; Elektroda, kowal011, #16755099].
How high is the penalty for breaking the seal without permission?
Forum users report charges from PLN 3 500 up to PLN 16 000[Elektroda, Krzysztof Reszka, #16753784; Elektroda, kazo.m, #16755146]. Energy companies treat the act as suspected electricity theft, so civil and criminal claims may apply."A broken seal equals theft in our eyes," notes one utility inspector[ENEA, 2021].
Is breaking the seal automatically treated as electricity theft?
Utilities presume theft but must investigate. If consumption data shows no irregularities, the case may downgrade to an administrative offence. Still, the customer pays for inspection, resealing and a penalty fee[Elektroda, retrofood, post #16753199]
Who must keep the meter cabinet secured?
The property owner or building administrator is responsible for preventing unauthorised access to metering equipment[Elektroda, zbich70, post #16753444] Failure may shift liability onto them if seals are missing.
How long will reconnection take after I pay my arrears?
Suppliers have up to 48 hours to restore supply after confirming payment[Elektroda, kazo.m, post #16753099] Average reconnection in urban areas is 24 h according to Tauron service data[Tauron, 2023].
Can recording video of the seal protect me?
Documenting meter readings and seal condition helps dispute future claims but doesn’t cancel penalties if you break the seal. Keep timestamped photos or video before any intervention[Elektroda, kazo.m, post #16753099]
What should I do if the fuse blows while the seal is intact?
Follow this legal 3-step process:
- Call the supplier’s emergency number and report the blown fuse.
- Obtain verbal or written permission and a reference number.
- Wait for their technician or, if authorised, cut the seal in their recorded presence.
Ignoring these steps risks penalties[Elektroda, anet870, post #16753832]
Could I be switched to a prepayment meter after non-payment?
Yes. Repeated late payments justify installing a prepayment (token) meter. “Now they have a basis for installing you a prepayment meter”[Elektroda, kierbedz4, post #16753475] You must top up codes to keep power active.
Does the supplier have to warn me right before disconnection?
No onsite notice is required. Once the legal reminder period expires, contractors can disconnect without further contact[Elektroda, Krzysztof Reszka, #16753784].
Edge case: What if someone else breaks the seal?
Utilities hold the account holder liable unless you prove third-party tampering. Immediate written notice and evidence (CCTV, witnesses) reduce risk. Failure to act may lead to back-billing for estimated six months consumption[PGE Report, 2021].
