Do I need a new gas meter for new premises?
Not if the premises already has a live gas meter; you just take it over and agree a contract. If there is no meter or no gas supply, a connection must be built and a meter fitted, arranged through your supplier, while a Gas Safe engineer handles pipework to your appliances.
If the building already has a gas meter in place, no. If it never had gas, or the meter was removed, you will need one fitted. The meter is arranged separately from the pipe that brings gas to the building.
Three situations
| Situation | New meter? | What happens |
|---|---|---|
| Meter already there and live | No | You take over its supply number (MPRN) and agree a contract. |
| Meter there but disconnected | Perhaps not | It may need reconnecting. Citizens Advice warns of connection fees where a previous tenant was disconnected. |
| No meter or no gas supply | Yes | A gas connection is built first, then a meter is installed. |
Our page on finding your MPAN and MPRN shows how to check whether the premises already has a gas supply number.
How a new gas supply is arranged
Ofgem's guidance explains three routes: ask the gas transporter (the company that owns the local pipes), have a licensed gas supplier arrange it, or hire a utility infrastructure provider. For premises within 23 metres of a suitable main, the transporter must connect on request and may recover its reasonable costs. Its quote does not include a meter. Your chosen supplier generally arranges that. The pipework from the meter to your appliances is separate and must be fitted by a Gas Safe registered engineer.
The same Ofgem guidance advises signing a supplier contract at least 28 days before you want gas flowing. That guidance is several years old, so confirm timings with your supplier.
Who owns and fits the meter
Meters are usually owned by a meter asset manager (see the MAM glossary entry) appointed through your supplier. How the meter is paid for (a separate rental line or a cost built into your charges) varies, so ask your supplier to explain it in writing.
A worked example
A new unit opens in a cafe and the landlord confirms there is no gas. Your steps:
- Decide whether you really need gas. If your cooking is all electric, you can avoid the connection cost.
- If yes, request a quote from the transporter or through a supplier.
- Accept the quote, then agree a gas contract so a meter can be booked.
- Have the Gas Safe engineer complete pipework.
- Take the first reading and check it matches the supplier's record.
Ask your supplier to confirm the new supply point and the earliest meter date in writing before you plan an opening date.
Gas smell?
If you smell gas, do not search for the cause. Use the national gas emergency line, which Ofgem lists as 0800 111 999.
Next steps
Read our guide to new business energy connections, then see meter installation for what to expect on the day. If the premises already has a live supply, see setting up energy for a new business.
Sources
General information only. Energy prices, rules and supplier terms change; check the latest position with your supplier, Ofgem or the Energy Ombudsman before you act.