ᐅ Is Techem energy billing reliable? Experiences and comparisons with other providers

Hello everyone!

I have an issue with the energy billing from Techem in our apartment building. The latest heating cost statement shows significantly higher values for one unit, although according to the tenant, consumption was actually lower than the previous year. Checking the meter readings revealed that a wireless meter was apparently not read correctly. Despite multiple inquiries to Techem customer service, I have only received standard responses so far, but no concrete clarification or correction. The tenants are becoming increasingly uncertain, and I am not sure how to proceed best. Has anyone experienced similar problems or can offer advice on how to handle this? Are other providers more reliable?

Thanks

Larusso_12 schrieb:

Are other providers more reliable?

No.

Larusso_12 schrieb:

Despite several inquiries to Techem customer service, I have only received standard replies so far, but no concrete clarification or correction.

Keep following up.

Larusso_12 schrieb:

The tenants' uncertainty is increasing, and I don't know how to proceed best now.

Have an estimate made. If the reading was not done correctly and nothing can be verified anymore, this is the only option (which is also provided for in the regulation).

Larusso_12 schrieb:

or does anyone have tips on how to deal with this?

1. If you do not receive a satisfactory response from the service within a reasonable time, send a letter to the head of management. Avoid blaming the technology or staff; instead, briefly explain the problem and its impact (loss of trust – extra effort as a landlord) and ask not only for a technical solution but also for support in communicating with your tenants.
2. Prepare the billing for your tenant based on reasonable values. Your tenants will learn that you are reliable. This reduces most of the uncertainty.

Hi,

In cases of billing discrepancies like this, you are initially required to formally request Techem in writing to correct the issue within a set deadline—preferably by registered mail. If you continue to receive only standard responses, you can dispute the consumption figures and file a formal complaint. If necessary, it is advisable to involve an independent expert at your own expense, which demonstrates seriousness. At the same time, the tenant can pay the disputed portion of the bill under reservation. Other providers use similar technology, and none operate 100% error-free—how old are the devices in question?

Good luck!

It would also be helpful to systematically document when and how often the faulty readings occurred – ideally with photos and logs of the meter readings. If this turns out to be a recurring issue, reporting it to the energy arbitration board or even the consumer protection agency would be advisable to apply some pressure – otherwise, little will happen. Regardless of the provider or metering service: it is crucial that the processes are transparent and verifiable. Have there been any recent structural or technical changes in the house that could contribute to the malfunction?

Hello and thank you for the many suggestions; they are much more helpful than the previous feedback from the service provider. I am currently implementing the idea of setting a deadline via registered mail – I’m still a bit surprised that apparently no provider can offer “satisfactory” meter reading security. It almost seems like every final bill has to be checked twice.

We will also start systematic logging over the next period.

Does anyone know whether the energy arbitration board intervenes in meter-related issues at all, or only in disputes directly related to the contract? Has anyone had experience with multiple tenants filing complaints together? That should increase pressure on the provider to take it seriously, right?

Thanks!