Reading through the CenterPoint tariff for a Houston client and found a provision that says meters shall be tested for accuracy at least once every 4 years upon customer request, or every 8 years as part of the utility's testing program. My client's meter hasn't been tested in at least 9 years based on the account records. Can I use this to compel a meter test?
Meter testing interval in the tariff — utility hasn't tested in 9 years
Absolutely. If the tariff says every 8 years and it's been 9, the utility is in violation of their own filed tariff. Submit a written request for an immediate meter test citing the specific tariff provision. The utility is obligated to test it. If the test reveals the meter is running outside the accuracy standards (typically plus or minus 2%), the utility must adjust the bills for the period the meter was inaccurate. This is where the real money is — a meter running 5% fast for 9 years is a massive overcharge.
Derek is right. The meter testing provision is leverage even if the meter turns out to be accurate. If it tests inaccurate, you have a clear billing adjustment claim. If it tests accurate, you've at least verified that the consumption data is correct and can focus your audit on rate classification and other non-metering errors. Either way, requesting the test is a no-lose move. One additional tip: request the test results in writing, including the accuracy percentage and the date of the last previous test. This documentation becomes part of your audit file.
Submitted the written request citing the tariff section. CenterPoint acknowledged it and scheduled the test for next month. Will update with results. If this meter has been running fast for 9 years, the recovery could be substantial — the client's average bill is $6,800/month.