Warren Larkan from Norwood in Johannesburg had his electricity disconnected because, according to the City of Johannesburg, he did not allow the meter readers access to his property.
Over the weekend he wrote on the Norwood community page on Mobilitate that the electricity was disconnected on August 12 but on August 4 a meter reader visited his property. The previous month, on July 7, he had a visit from two people who did an audit and took photographs of the meter. They also wrote the address with a permanent marker on the meter.
“Throughout the year we have allowed meter readers onto our property to do a reading. We have not received any letter asking us to make an appointment or red stickers on our doors stating that they have the intent to cut our electricity.
“The strange thing is that the inept companies that are commissioned to carry out this work on behalf of the City Power have not submitted a reading since January,” said Warren.
Warren has now purchased a book to keep a record of every time a meter reader comes onto his property.
“He will sign, acknowledging that he was here and took a meter reading. I will photograph his employee card next to this acknowledgement. It’s terrible that one has to put these checks and balances in place to police this municipality’s incompetence, and I doubt that this will prevent any further incidents of this nature.”
“I would love to know what recourse the average citizen, who is so busy working to survive and pay these incompetent people their salaries, has,” asked Warren.
Earlier in the month Mobilitate reported that Joburg residents could have their services cut if they do not give meter readers access to their properties – even if their accounts are up to date. Read the full story HERE.
Residents were outraged.
“What impudence! - I have frequently allowed readers on to my property but not once since October 2010 have their readings been shown on my account. I have NEVER received a note to the effect that I can arrange an appointment with a reader either!” wrote Dave Holmes.
“People are not allowing meter readers onto their properties because they cannot confirm their credibility. In the last 2 years the meter readers have been to my house every month and every month access was refused since they do not carry a handheld computer like they are supposed to and which actually forms part of their reading contract,” said Riaan Naude.
Nicky Webster: “As usual this is a load of rubbish from COJ. We frequently specifically complete meter reading forms to request actual readings with the client's contact details highlighted... and request them to make appointments with the consumers... the meter readers don't bother to do this and return the matter with a note on stating "premises locked could not gain access"......and of course... no readings!!!!”
Has your electricity been disconnected despite the meter readers getting access to your property? Report it HERE.
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