Landlords: Still got Old Utility Meters? Why You Need to Take Action NOW
Published on January 31, 2025 by Sarah Mac
If you’re a landlord with rental properties that have older electricity meters, a major change is coming that could impact your tenants, and your legal obligations.
On 30 June 2025, the Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS), which controls many older meters, will be permanently switched off.
This means that any meters still relying on RTS signals will no longer function correctly, potentially disrupting heating and hot water suppliers and affecting energy bills for tenants. It could also spell non-compliance with landlord legal obligations to provide vital utilities.
With an estimated 600,000 RTS meters still in use across the UK, landlords need to take action now to avoid unnecessary disruption, higher costs, and possible breaches of legal responsibilities.
What is an RTS meter, and why does it matter?
RTS meters were introduced in the 1980s to manage off-peak electricity tariffs such as Economy 7 and Economy 10. These meters automatically switch between daytime and cheaper night time rates using a radio signal transmitted via the BBC’s longwave service.
They are particularly common in properties with electric storage heaters or electric water heating systems.
However, from 30 June 2025, this signal will be switched off permanently. Once this happens, affected meters will no longer function as intended.
This means:
- Higher energy bills – If meters cannot switch between peak and off-peak rates, tenants may end up paying more for electricity.
- Heating and hot water disruptions – Some systems rely on RTS signals to control when heating or water heaters turn on and off. Without this, tenants may experience unreliable heating or even complete loss of service.
- Non-compliance with legal requirements – Under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, landlords must provide essential services such as heating and hot water. If an RTS meter failure leaves a tenant without these, it could result in legal disputes or even penalties.
How to check if your property has an RTS meter?
Not sure whether one of your rental properties is affected? Here is how you can find out:
- Check the meter serial number – RTS meters often have serial numbers starting with specific codes, such as “RTS”, or are labelled as Economy 7/Economy 10.
- Look for a radio-controlled switch – If there is a black box next to the meter, this may indicate an RTS system.
- Ask the energy supplier – The quickest way to confirm whether a meter is RTS-based is to contact the energy provider and ask if a smart meter upgrade is required.
What should landlords do now?
If your property has an RTS meter, waiting is not an option. As the deadline approaches, demand for meter replacements will increase, which could lead to delays in installation. Taking action early ensures that your tenants are not left without essential utilities.
Replace RTS meters with smart meters
Many energy suppliers are offering free smart meter installations to replace RTS meters. Upgrading to a smart meter provides several benefits:
- Automatic tariff switching – Smart meters ensure your tenants are always billed correctly, even on Economy 7 or Economy 10 tariffs.
- More accurate bills – Smart meters send real-time usage data to suppliers, eliminating estimated bills.
- Greater energy efficiency – Tenants can monitor their usage and adjust their consumption accordingly, potentially lowering their bills.
- No reliance on RTS signals – Since smart meters use mobile networks rather than radio signals, they will not be affected by the RTS switch-off.
Contact your energy supplier NOW
Energy providers have already started contacting customers with RTS meters to arrange replacements. If you have not been contacted, it is advisable to get in touch with them and schedule an installation as soon as possible.
The role of property inspections in RTS meter checks
For landlords managing multiple properties, keeping track of utility meters can be a challenge. This is where regular mid-term property inspections play a crucial role.
Professional inventory clerks can help identify RTS meters during routine inspections, ensuring landlords are aware of any outdated systems well before they become a problem.
How inventory providers can help
- Identify RTS Meters – Clerks can check meter types and serial numbers during inspections and document them in reports.
- Provide Evidence – Clear photographs and notes in an inventory report can serve as proof of compliance and proactive management.
- Flag Issues Early – If an RTS meter is found, an inspection report can alert landlords to take action before the June 2025 deadline.
Don’t leave it till the last minute
The RTS switch-off is a nationwide issue, and landlords who delay may struggle to get replacement appointments in time.
Acting now means you can:
- Ensure your tenants do not face unexpected power issues
- Avoid potential legal disputes over heating and hot water failures
- Maintain compliance with landlord responsibilities
If you are unsure whether your rental properties are affected, schedule a property inspection to check for outdated meters. Taking action now will save time, stress, and unnecessary costs in the long run.