Many Portuguese families are receiving water, electricity and gas bills that do not correspond to actual consumption, warns DECO PROTeste, a portal specializing in consumer protection. Cases of unexpectedly high values have multiplied, raising concerns among consumers and requiring greater attention when reading meters.
Irregular readings and estimates that weigh on your pocket
According to Margarida Pinto, jurist at DECO PROTeste, “complaints are recurrent with regard to essential public services”. The expert explained, in statements to CNN Portugal, that many consumers believe that smart meters constantly record consumption, but for months on end huge bills may appear that do not reflect reality.
According to the same source, one of the most common problems is the frequency of readings, which does not always coincide with the billing cycle. “We found that the readings are not being carried out as regularly as would be desirable”, highlights Margarida Pinto.
This lag means that invoice values are often calculated based on estimates, which can result in charges well above actual consumption.
Consumers must take control of their consumption
To minimize this risk, the lawyer advises consumers to report their consumption to the network operator themselves, especially when there is no smart meter. “If the network operator does not have data because it has not yet carried out a reading in person, the consumer must report their consumption.
Ideally, this communication should occur close to the end of the billing period, in order to cover as much real consumption as possible and avoid comparisons based solely on estimates”, explained Margarida Pinto.
The issue is not limited to electricity. The expert emphasizes that the problems cut across essential public services, including water and gas, which means that any family can be affected. The recommendation is simple but effective: closely monitor consumption and not rely exclusively on automatic readings or estimates from supplier companies.
Financial consequences of misadjusted invoices
DECO PROTeste warns that lack of attention to these details can have significant financial consequences. Inflated bills can accumulate, and only an active check by the consumer himself guarantees that the amounts charged correspond to real consumption.
According to Margarida Pinto, transparency in recording consumption is the safest way to avoid unpleasant surprises.
In short, the association’s warning is clear: consumers must take a more proactive role in managing energy and water consumption.
Reporting readings, regularly checking invoices and questioning discrepancies are essential steps to ensure that what you pay for is, in fact, what you consume, concludes the lawyer at .
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