COMPLEX ELECTRICITY METER PROJECT
lOCATION: BELGRAVIA

MOVING ELECTRICITY METERS FROM A BASEMENT FLAT

It sounds simple in theory but moving utility meters from one location to another within a block of flats is indeed challenging and involves a number of stakeholders.

In this case, all electricity meters for this building of super prime residences were located in a lower ground floor flat, which had obvious consequences for taking meter readings! To make matters more inconvenient for the owner of this flat, the meters were located behind a cupboard and desk unit, both of which had to be removed every time access was required.

Whilst it could have been completed as an independent project, we realised it would be much more effective from a cost and logistic point of view to incorporate other essential works, including upgrading the electrics in the common parts. The service head was over 50 years old in any case and was likely to fail the next EICR. We also planned for a new fire alarm system and emergency lighting, so liaising with the fire risk assessor and contractors, we could specify the ideal systems.

A M&E surveyor was appointed to produce the specification of works and tender.   There were three different companies involved including UK Power Networks and we had to co-ordinate between the three across the duration of the nine month project.

It was completed successfully and the meters are now housed in a accessible cupboard in the main entrance hallway and the building has an up to date fire alarm, emergency lighting and compliant electrical installations.