Smart Meter Scams via Phone Calls
How cold callers impersonating energy suppliers or government programmes charge fees for smart meter installations that are offered free of charge by law.
Part of: Smart Meter Scams
Last reviewed: 9 June 2026
Smart meter installation is free to all domestic energy customers in the UK — yet callers regularly claim otherwise. By positioning the installation as a paid service or suggesting that consumers must pay to 'register' for the government rollout programme, fraudulent callers extract charges for something the consumer is entitled to at no cost. This scam works because many consumers are not aware that the free installation guarantee exists.
Phone calls differ from doorstep-based smart meter scams in important ways. A caller cannot show an identity badge but can spend more time building rapport, answering questions, and handling objections before making a fee request. The call format also allows the scammer to gather personal details under the guise of verifying address and meter information.
How this scam works on phone calls
The call presents as an outreach from the consumer's energy supplier, explaining that the government's smart meter programme requires a contribution from the consumer — perhaps for a specialist meter type, an installation appointment fee, or an administration cost. The payment is modest enough not to seem alarming. In a second version, the caller claims the consumer's smart meter has been sending incorrect readings and that a recalibration fee is needed to correct the billing.
Some callers offer to sell an extended smart meter warranty or maintenance plan, claiming this is required to keep the meter receiving software updates. None of these fees correspond to any real requirement.
Common red flags
- Caller asks for payment for a smart meter installation — genuine installations are free
- Recalibration, registration, or administration fee cited for a government rollout programme
- Caller cannot confirm your account details when you ask a security question
- Smart meter warranty or maintenance plan sold as a required purchase
- Urgency to pay before a window closes for the free government programme
How to protect yourself
- Know that smart meter installation is free from all energy suppliers in the UK — never pay for it
- Request smart meters directly through your energy supplier's official website or app
- Hang up on any caller asking for payment related to a smart meter and call your supplier directly
- Do not provide banking details to any caller claiming to arrange a smart meter
How to report it
- Report to Ofgem (UK) at ofgem.gov.uk/consumers
- Report the call to Action Fraud (UK) if money was taken
- Forward details to your energy supplier's fraud team
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to pay anything for a smart meter?
No. Under UK government policy, energy suppliers must offer smart meter installation to all domestic customers at no additional cost. There is no registration fee, installation charge, or administration fee. Any such request is a scam.
How do I request a smart meter from my actual supplier?
Contact your energy supplier directly through their official website, app, or the number on your energy bill. They will arrange installation at no charge at a time convenient for you.