Landlord fears for tenants ahead of meter switch-off
David Bateman has made five attempts to replace the obsolete Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) meter at his rented flat with a smart device.
However, after a series of cancellations, he has been given a new appointment for July 28, almost a month after the June 30 cut-off for the RTS signal.
David Bateman (Image: Supplied) David spoke out as part of Advice Direct Scotland's campaign to raise awareness of the impending deadline, with just six weeks remaining until the shutdown.
The charity, which operates the national energy advice service energyadvice.scot, is calling on households to check their meters and contact their energy suppliers if they think a replacement is needed.
David, a retired schoolteacher from Edinburgh, said: "Incompetence doesn't even begin to describe what is going on here.
"It's getting to the stage where I'm beginning to lose count of how many times I've tried and failed to get a smart meter installed.
"My tenants have been inconvenienced again and again.
"They're told the installation is going ahead and that the power will go off, then it doesn't happen.
"I feel like I'm being treated like a fool.'
Davids's latest appointment, initially scheduled for May 6, was cancelled without any explanation.
It has now been moved to late July, well past the deadline.
David said: 'Things need to change.
"This is beyond ridiculous.
"I've now been given yet another date, and it's actually after the switch-off.
'It's incredible.
"I have no idea why this is proving to be so difficult.
"The whole thing's been made worse by how hard it is to get hold of the supplier.'
Recent figures from the UK Government show that around 139,000 RTS meters are still in use across Scotland as of March 7, including more than 47,000 in the Highlands and Islands.
By the end of April, 135,000 meters remained.
This suggests that the rate of replacement is not keeping up.
Andrew Bartlett (Image: Supplied) Andrew Bartlett, chief executive of Advice Direct Scotland, said: "With just six weeks to go, David's experience highlights the real struggles many face trying to replace outdated RTS meters before the deadline.
"His repeated cancellations and delays show that the system isn't working as it should, putting thousands at risk of losing heating or hot water.
'Anyone who thinks they might be affected should act now and contact their supplier.
'If you don't take action and are still relying on an RTS meter after June 30, you risk having unreliable heating and hot water, as well as incorrect bills.
"The replacement rate simply isn't fast enough and must urgently speed up.
"We're seeing more calls from worried households every day.
"If you know someone with an RTS meter, especially if vulnerable, encourage them to act."
Those worried about the upcoming switch-off are able to check the energy advice Scotland website or call 0808 196 8660.
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