Reconnecting a gas meter: sub-entrance and disconnection due to outstanding payments

When relocating to a new residence, one of the initial duties is to reinstate the gas provision. If the prior occupant formally ended the agreement, resulting in the disconnection of the meter as per usual practice, it is vital to organize a sub-entrance (finalize a new contract for an existing link). Typically, this process entails a fee of approximately 50 euros and usually takes about 10-12 working days.

In the event of gas disconnection due to the prior user's debts, the protocol is different. In such circumstances, the primary step is to reach out to the supplier responsible for the disconnection. If the debt belongs to you, settling it in full is mandatory. However, if you are a new occupant and have no ties to the previous contract, you have the option to arrange a sub-entrance or change the account holder status by confirming your detachment from the debt and presenting documents validating your entitlement to utilize the property. In this scenario, there is no obligation to cover someone else's outstanding payments.

Steps to reinstate gas provision post disconnection

To regain access to gas, the root cause of the disconnection must be addressed. Typically, gas supplies are cut off due to the following reasons:

• unsettled invoices;
• detected safety breaches or equipment malfunctions;
• termination of the agreement by the previous tenant.

Once the cause is rectified, contacting the gas supplier is essential. They will then forward the request to the local distribution network operator who dispatches a specialist for the reconnection process.

Disconnection due to non-payment

In cases of gas disconnection owing to debts, you must:

1. Settle all outstanding bills entirely, encompassing penalties and disconnection charges.
2. Provide proof of payment to the supplier via your personal account, application, email, or other specified means.
3. Upon receiving the request, the operator is mandated to reinstate the gas provision within two business days.

For locations equipped with a contemporary electronic meter, remote reconnection is feasible, significantly expediting the process.

Disconnection due to safety concerns

If the gas supply was disconnected due to a leak or another hazardous situation, the following measures are necessary:

1. Engage a licensed professional to address the issue.
2. Acquire documentation confirming the system's good operational status and leak-proof condition.
3. Submit these documents to the supplier to facilitate the reconnection process.

Relocating to a new residence and sub-entrance

In instances where the apartment is linked to the gas network but lacks gas supply due to the termination of the previous tenant's agreement, initiating a new contract with the chosen supplier is imperative. This procedure is known as sub-entrance.

Timeframes for reconnection

The timeframes are regulated by the Italian energy regulatory body ARERA.

After disconnection due to debts or safety concerns

The gas provision must be restored within a maximum of two business days post the supplier's reception of the requisite documents. For locations with an electronic meter, the reconnection can be nearly instantaneous.

Upon registering a sub-entrance

The maximum period allowed is 12 business days:

• up to 2 business days are allocated for the supplier to process the request;
• up to 10 business days are allotted to the network operator for completing the connection.

Recompense for delays

In cases of missed deadlines, consumers are subject to automatic compensation:

• 35 euros - for delays up to twice the standard period;
• 70 euros - for delays up to three times the standard period;
• 105 euros - if the delay extends beyond three times the standard period.

The compensation is applied as a deduction from the gas bill.

Cost of reconnection

The overall cost typically ranges from 50 to over 100 euros, excluding any outstanding debts. All expenses are encompassed in the initial invoice subsequent to reconnection.

In case of disconnection due to debts

Costs involve:

• fixed payment to the network operator - 27.61 euros;
• for remote connection via an electronic meter - 13.80 euros;
• supplier's administrative expenses - typically ranging from 20 to 40 euros.

In case of sub-entrance

Typically incurred expenses are:

• 30 euros to the network operator;
• 23 euros in the regulated market segment or between 20 and 45 euros in the open market sector;
• stamp duty of 16 euros (if applicable).

Equipment safety assessment

When the disconnection is due to a gas leak or prolonged system downtime, the operator is mandated to conduct a safety check. The cost for such an evaluation ranges from 47 to 70 euros, depending on the equipment's power capacity.

Essential documentation

For sub-entrance registration

You must furnish:

• passport or alternative form of identification;
• tax code (Codice Fiscale);
• PDR code (14-digit identifier of the gas supply point);
• contact details and banking information for automated payments (if required);
• documents validating ownership or rental of the property.

For reconnection post disconnection due to debts

You will necessitate:

• proof of debt settlement;
• customer number or PDR code;
• a completed payment notification form provided by the supplier.

To verify system safety

If the disconnection was triggered by an incident or extended system downtime, the following documents are also mandatory:

• Form H/40, completed by the consumer;
• Form I/40, completed and endorsed by a certified expert, affirming the functionality and leak-proof status of the gas setup.

Upon submission of all requisite documentation, the operator is authorized to re-establish the gas supply within the statutory timeframes.