Meter dispute — Saudi (SEC) guidance

If your Saudi electricity bill seems incorrect due to meter readings, faulty meters, or unexplained charges, this guide explains typical causes, how to gather evidence, and practical steps to lodge a dispute with the Saudi Electricity Company (SEC).

ScopeMeter readings, estimated bills, premature disconnections, and billing errors
AudienceResidents and businesses with SEC accounts in Saudi Arabia

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Common causes of disputed bills

Estimated reading when access to meter was blocked
Faulty or tampered meters
Incorrect meter multiplier or tariff code
Unrecorded meter replacement or move

Quick checks before raising a dispute

Verify account number and billing period on the statement.
Compare current reading with your own recent photo of the meter.
Check the tariff code and applied multiplier on the bill.
Confirm any notifications from SEC about estimated readings.

Evidence checklist (what to collect)

Strong evidence speeds up resolution. Collect:

Photographs of the meter display (date-stamped if possible)
Scanned copies of the disputed bill and prior statements
Payment receipts or proof of previous payments
Any SMS or emails from SEC relating to the period

Tip: take photos from different angles and include the surrounding meter box to show access conditions.

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Practical support for gathering evidence and preparing a complaint

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Step-by-step: how to raise a meter dispute with SEC

Step 1: Check online account — log into your SEC account and review the bill details and reading source.
Step 2: Prepare evidence — photos, prior bills, and any communication.
Step 3: Submit a formal complaint via SEC’s online form or customer service number. Note reference number.
Step 4: Follow up — keep the reference and escalate if unresolved after SEC timelines.

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FAQs — meter disputes

SEC typically acknowledges complaints quickly; investigations with meter inspection may take several working days depending on complexity and inspections required.

Withholding payment may lead to penalties or disconnection. Pay any undisputed portion and record your dispute reference; seek advice if unsure.

If SEC confirms a meter fault, they usually adjust the bill (pro rata historically) and may replace the meter. Ask for a written confirmation and revised statement.

Resources & escalation

If SEC response is unsatisfactory, keep all references and escalate to higher SEC support channels or file a complaint with the relevant Saudi consumer protection body. For international users seeking advice from UK-based consultants, contact us for next steps.

Resource	Use
SEC Customer Service	Initial complaint and ticket reference
SEC online account	Download statements and meter history
Local consumer protection	Escalation if unresolved