Under the framework, suppliers will be legally required to fix non-functioning smart meters within 90 days. If they fail to meet this deadline, they could face enforcement action and financial penalties from Ofgem.
Clear timelines bring greater accountability
For property agents, the introduction of a defined repair window is a significant development. Previously, delays in fixing smart meters often led to prolonged periods of estimated billing, which can create disputes between tenants and landlords.
With a clear legal obligation in place, agents now have a stronger basis to escalate issues with suppliers and ensure problems are resolved within a reasonable timeframe. This should help reduce billing inaccuracies during tenancies and at check-out.
Compensation for missed appointments
Alongside repair obligations, new rules also introduce compensation where suppliers fail to meet service standards. Tenants or landlords responsible for energy bills will be entitled to £40 if an installation appointment is missed or not completed as agreed.
This is particularly relevant for agents managing access to properties, where missed appointments can disrupt schedules and require additional coordination. The compensation recognises the time lost when engineers do not attend as planned.
Preparing for a nationwide upgrade programme
The UK Government has also confirmed that the smart meter rollout must be completed by 2030. A key part of this programme will involve replacing older meters that rely on 2G and 3G networks, which are being phased out.
As a result, letting agents and landlords should expect increased contact from energy suppliers arranging upgrades to 4G-compatible meters. Ensuring access to properties and communicating with tenants will be essential to keep installations on track and avoid disruption.
What this means for property agents
These changes highlight the growing intersection between energy policy and property management. Agents will play an important role in facilitating access for repairs and upgrades, supporting tenants and landlords in resolving billing issues, and holding suppliers accountable against the new 90-day repair standard.
Energy efficiency
The UK housing stock is amongst the least energy efficient in Europe and the Committee on Climate Change says that energy use in homes accounts for about 14 per cent of UK greenhouse gas emissions. Non-domestic buildings account for around one-third of UK emissions from the building stock.
