Get instructions, tips, and insights for hassle-free meter readings.
In Australia, the most common meters installed are basic meters, interval meters, or smart meter. If you don't have a smart meter installed (which sends automatic readings to your provider), then your network distributor will send someone to conduct an in-person meter read. This allows your energy provider to calculate an accurate bill for your usage. In some instances, you may need to submit a self-meter read.
Finding the location of your electricity meter can be a little confusing. Each property has its own unique layout and design, so we've listed a few common areas where you may be able to find your meter:
Duplex or free-standing home
- Meter box on an external wall (front or rear of your property)
- In your garage
- Foyer or entrance to the hallway
- Laundry/powder room
Apartment
- Underground carpark (dedicated level)
- In the basement (adjacent to a garbage room or near the entrance to basement stairs)
- Allocated meter room next to the garage doors
How to submit a self-meter read
If you have received multiple read estimates on your bill, then you can conduct a self-meter read so your provider can revise your billing and actual usage. There are only two ways to submit a self-meter read to Nectr:
- Take a photo of the meter display and send it to us at hello@nectr.com.au. The meter display needs to be clearly shown. Please state your name, address, and the date you took the photo in the email.
- Submit a meter read via the Nectr app.
Submit a self-meter read via our app
1. Login via your details
Login to the Nectr app with your email and password. At the bottom of the screen, there is a tab labelled “usage.” Click this to view your current bill estimate.
2. Click on bill projection
Under your bill estimate, there is a bar that’s labelled “bill projection”, click on this to view your current monthly projection. Under the monthly projection, you will see a tab that says “Enter meter read.” Click this to enter the meter read portal.
3. Enter your meter read
From here, you can enter your meter data manually, or upload a photo of your meter reading. Please note that your meter may include other registers such as Controlled Load or even show other meters at your property (such as a separate meter for a granny flat.)
4. Finalise and submit
Once this is finalised, your meter read will be submitted and your new monthly projection will be estimated for you.
Reasons why your read may have been rejected
There are occasions when your meter reading will not be accepted. This could be due to the following reasons:
- The photo doesn’t clearly show the display
- The meter in your photograph does not appear to be the meter in your home
- We believe that the meter has been tampered with based on the reading submitted
- Your read has been submitted after the due date for the payment of your bill
If we do not accept your customer read estimate, you have the right to:
- Make a complaint to us which we will consider in line with our customer complaints and dispute resolution policy;
- Request we review your bill; or
- Complain or lodge a dispute with the Energy and Water Ombudsman
What to do if your meter is rejected
If you have submitted a meter read that didn’t meet the above requirements, you will be informed of the reason for the rejection via email.
However, if you are unhappy with the outcome, you have the right to make a complaint to us in, which we will consider in line with our Customer Complaints and Dispute Resolution Policy. You can also request that we review your bill or make a complaint or lodge a dispute with the Energy and Water Ombudsman in your state. You can view them here:
