"Door lock" and estimated readings: why they cost solar homes

What it means

When the meter reader can't read your meter, because the gate was locked or the meter wasn't accessible, the bill is raised on an estimate, usually your average consumption. The reading status will say something like DOOR LOCK or AVG instead of a normal reading.

Why it hurts if you have solar

• An estimate usually charges your average import and may not credit the units you exported that month.
• Your carried-forward credit can be wrong until an actual reading catches up, and sometimes it never fully does.
• Several estimated months in a row make errors much harder to untangle later.

What to do

1. Photograph your meterTake a clear, dated photo of the import and export readings on the meter display on the reading day. Do it every month; it's your best evidence.
2. Ask for an actual reading and a revised billContact TGSPDCL's 1912 helpline or your Customer Service Centre, give your service number and the photos, and note the complaint number.
3. Check the next billThe next actual reading should adjust for the estimate. Compare the export readings across both bills.
4. Escalate if it isn't fixedGo to your section office with a written complaint, then the Consumer Grievance Redressal Forum. See our complaints guide.

Stop it happening again

• Make sure the meter is reachable on reading days, or leave access with your security desk.
• In gated communities, ask the association to share reading dates with residents.