In some cases we are unable to obtain an exact meter reading at your premises. Usually this is because we couldn't get access to your meter. In this circumstance, AGL will have estimated your bill based upon your previous usage. This may result in a discrepancy on either the estimated bill or the subsequent bill with a real reading, or perhaps even both bills.

Why was my bill estimated?

Some reasons why your meter could not be read and you received an estimated bill are as follows:

• Meter indoors - the meter is inside your house and there was nobody home when the meter reader tried to access the meter
• Locked gate - the meter is behind a locked gate and there was nobody home when the meter reader tried to access the meter
• Blocked access - there may have been an obstruction preventing the reader from getting to the meter (eg. garden waste). It is a requirement by law that clear access is available to the meters on your premises
• Dog - the meter is guarded by a fierce dog or other animal

If my bill is estimated, what should I do?

An actual meter reading should be performed for the next billing cycle. At that time the two bills (the estimated one and the subsequent actual bill) will be reconciled to ensure that you pay for no more than the energy you have actually consumed over the two billing periods.

To arrange access to your meter for the next scheduled meter read, please call us on 131 245. If an estimated read results in a high bill which places you under financial strain, please call us and we will happily discuss options with you to avoid any undue hardship.