Energy customers have been warned about tampering with their gas and electric meters as they could face a fine of up to £30,000.
Nearly half of electricians and gas engineers have been asked to tamper with electricity or gas meters in the last year, according to research by Direct Line.
Tampering with a meter means that it doesn't read the correct amount of energy.
Specifically, engineers say clients have asked them to slow the meters down which would in turn reduce their energy bills and save them money.
Almost a third of tradespeople also say they have seen evidence of tampering in clients' homes.
Tampering with electricity and gas meters is not only dangerous, but it is also illegal.
Cheating a meter to avoid paying bills is classified as "electricity theft" and can lead to serious consequences.
This includes fines of up to £30,000 and even prison sentences.
Nearly all (92%) of the electricians and gas engineers surveyed by Direct Line believe that increased costs have led to more people looking to make their meters run slowly to save money on energy.
However, the majority of engineers says they would likely report the tampering if they are confident a meter has been deliberately messed with.
David Powell, an electrical installation safety engineer at Electrical Safety First, said: "Tampering with electricity meters is not only a criminal offence – it could cost you your life.
"Many people are struggling financially but it is never worth putting you or your family at risk.
"Tampering with meters exposes anyone in your household to electric shocks, burns, fire and even death. If you are struggling with your energy bills, speak directly to your energy provider.”
Alison Traboulsi, a product manager at Direct Line business insurance also noted that tampering with your meter could also have "serious insurance implications".
She said: "If your property is damaged, destroyed or someone is hurt as a result of deliberate meter tampering, you won’t be covered by your home insurance."
What to do if you can't afford your energy bills
It is absolutely vital that anyone struggling to afford their gas and electricity bills, contact their supplier first.
This is because your energy supplier is duty-bound to help you come to a solution for payment
If you're struggling your supplier can offer you a range of options which could help, which includes:
- A full payment plan review
- Affordable debt repayment plans
- Payment breaks (though this won't be right for everyone)
- Payment reductions
- More time to pay
- Access to hardship funds
It is important to note that the repayment plan which is offered must be based on your ability to pay.
The help you can get is also decided on a case-by-case basis - so not everyone will get the same.
If you are on a prepayment energy meter and you are struggling to top up then you should approach your supplier for help.
All energy suppliers offer emergency credit which you can use to keep yourself connected to power.
You can find a detailed list of all the help you could claim if you are struggling to pay your energy bills here.
