Fixington

Install a Smart Meter

Trade: Electrician

⭐ Introduction

A smart meter is a modern replacement for your traditional electricity and gas meters. It electronically sends accurate usage data directly to your energy supplier, eliminating the need for estimated bills and manual meter readings. Many UK homeowners choose to install smart meters to better manage energy consumption, save money, and contribute to a more efficient energy system.

You might decide to get a smart meter installed when you move into a new home, if your current meter is outdated, or when your energy supplier offers an upgrade as part of a government-backed initiative. It’s also useful if you want real-time usage data to help reduce your bills or switch to a more suitable tariff.

🔧 What the job involves

Installing a smart meter means replacing your existing electricity and/or gas meters with new digital versions. The electrician carries out the electrical work, ensuring the new metering equipment is safely connected and compliant with UK regulations. When gas meters are involved, a Gas Safe registered engineer undertakes that part of the job.

The process includes:

  • Safely disconnecting the power and fuel supply from your old meters.
  • Removing the old meters and preparing the mounting area.
  • Installing the new smart meters, which communicate wirelessly with your supplier.
  • Testing the meters to make sure they’re working correctly and are safely connected.
  • Setting up the in-home display unit (IHD), which shows you your energy consumption in real time.
  • Registering the smart meters with your energy supplier for remote readings.

The whole job follows safety standards and British regulations to ensure your home’s wiring and gas systems are safe and secure. Your electrician will comply with Part P of the Building Regulations when working on your home’s electrical installation.

📝 Step-by-step from booking to completion

  1. Initial Enquiry
    Contact a qualified electrician (and Gas Safe engineer if needed) to discuss your requirements and check if your property is eligible for smart meter installation.

  2. Site Survey and Quotation
    The electrician visits your home to survey the existing meters, assess access and safety, and provide a clear quote. They’ll confirm any preparatory work needed for a smooth install.

  3. Scheduling the Installation
    You agree on a convenient date and time. Your supplier may also coordinate with the engineer to ensure new meters activate smoothly.

  4. Day of the Installation

  • Engineer(s) arrive and turn off power and gas supplies safely.
  • Remove old meters, install smart meters and in-home display.
  • Test and commission the new system, ensuring communication with the supplier.
  • Demonstrate use of the display and answer your questions.
  1. Completion and Paperwork
  • Receive documentation about the new meters, usage instructions, and any warranty info.
  • Your supplier automatically receives meter readings, so no more manual submissions or estimated bills.
  • Keep any certificates or paperwork safe for future reference.

💷 Main costs to expect

  • Labour

    • Electrician time to disconnect and install new electric meter, typically 1–3 hours.
    • Gas Safe engineer’s time if replacing a gas meter (usually runs alongside electric work).

  • Materials/Parts

    • New smart meter devices supplied by your energy provider.
    • Installation materials such as cable clips, connectors, and new meter tails.

  • Extras

    • Remedial electrical or gas work if your existing installation doesn’t meet current standards.
    • Replacement of defective consumer units or fuse boards (sometimes necessary).

  • Disposal

    • Safe removal and disposal of old meters (usually handled by the installer or supplier).

  • Certification

    • Part P compliance certificates or gas safety certificates if any additional work is required.

Example cost breakdown (estimates only)

Item Typical Cost (£)
Electrician labour 80–150
Gas Safe engineer labour 80–150
Minor materials 20–50
Remedial work (if any) 100+ depending on work
Certification paperwork 0–50

Note: Many energy suppliers provide smart meter installation free of charge or at minimal cost as part of government schemes. Additional electrician or engineer fees can apply if your setup needs work.

📊 What affects the price

  • Accessibility: Meters in awkward or difficult locations take longer to install.
  • Complexity: Older wiring or gas pipe runs may need upgrades before smart meters can be fitted.
  • Regulations: Ensuring full compliance with Part P and Gas Safe standards may require extra checks or modifications.
  • Additional work: Repairing or replacing consumer units, fuse boards, or damaged pipework adds to costs.
  • Location: Labour rates vary by region, with higher costs typical in London and the South East.
  • Urgency/Timeline: Short notice or emergency visits usually cost more.
  • Supplier arrangements: Some energy suppliers cover installation costs fully or partially.

⏱ How long does it take?

  • Straight swap of electric or gas meter only: Typically 1–2 hours for each meter.
  • Combined electric and gas smart meter installation: Usually 2–3 hours including checks and commissioning.
  • Complex installs with remedial work: Can take a day or more if rewiring or pipework repairs are needed.

You should expect the installer to work efficiently around your schedule and keep disruption minimal.

🏠 Can you DIY it?

Installing a smart meter is not a DIY job. It involves working with your home’s electrical and gas supplies, which requires certified expertise for safety and legal reasons. Electricians and Gas Safe registered engineers must carry out this work in the UK.

By law, gas work must be done by Gas Safe registered personnel only, and electrical meter installations need to comply with Part P regulations. Improper installation risks safety hazards such as electric shocks, gas leaks, or fire.

Therefore, always hire qualified professionals for smart meter installation. Attempting to do it yourself is unsafe and may invalidate your home insurance.

💰 Typical UK price range

If your energy supplier does not cover the cost, typical electrician and engineer fees for installing a smart meter in the UK range between £150 and £400 + VAT. This estimate depends on the factors outlined above.

The smart meter devices themselves are generally provided by your energy supplier at no extra cost. Always confirm with your supplier what costs, if any, you will incur.

✅ Handy tips before you start

  • Check eligibility: Confirm your energy supplier supports smart meters at your property and whether installation is free.
  • Prepare access: Ensure meters are easily accessible on the appointment day (clear clutter, secure pets).
  • Plan for disruption: Power and gas will be temporarily switched off during installation—plan accordingly.
  • Keep paperwork: Save certificates, user manuals, and supplier communications for future reference.
  • Register your IHD: Set up your in-home display properly to monitor usage and identify savings.
  • Ask about warranty: Confirm warranty and maintenance services offered by your installer or supplier.
  • Understand data privacy: Your energy data is sent securely, but you can request limitations if preferred.

Getting a smart meter installed conserves energy, helps understanding your consumption, and delivers fairer billing. By relying on registered experts and preparing in advance, your installation will be smooth, safe, and hassle-free.