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tom_j_davey1
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October 31, 2023
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Can I still use a new Gas Meter Card (traditional PAYG meter), if it wasn't activated at the shop with the TAG code?

  • October 31, 2023
  • 24 replies
  • 1924 views

So after spending a 2/3 hours waiting on the phone/web chat today sorting out an issue with my gas meter card, I was given a TAG code to go and get a replacement from the shop near me in around 3 hours time.

When I popped around to said shop just now around 3.5 - 4 hours later,, they pointed out that the TAG code I was given, typed it down while on phone and checked 3 times, was missing a digit so they couldn’t activate the card on their machine with the partial code I have, However they did just hand me the card

Now my question is, if I insert this card into my meter will it register and then let me top it up anyway?

Or would I have to go through the whole debacle again of having to sit in and try to call up and get the missing digit/new code for the card?

Best answer by Blastoise186

Updated on 08/08/25 by Abby_OVO

 

Nope, that won’t work. Only an already authorised card will be accepted by the meter - that’s what the TAG Code does.

 

Best case scenario: The meter will reject and spit the card out for being blank.

 

Worst case scenario: The meter will trigger some kind of anti-tamper protection due to an unauthorised card being inserted.

 

If you’re still having issues, you’ll be best to then get in touch with the Support Team for help;

 

 

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tom_j_davey1Author
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November 2, 2023

Haha good luck getting that out of them, I am still waiting for my living room to be redecorated after the ceiling had to be partially replaced, and part of my utility rooms ceiling still has an almost 1M square hole exposing the semi rotten beams above from it literally falling down at 3am months ago, due to water ingress in the building at top floor, so me and guy above me are chasing up the guy at the top to try get that sorted and I’m constantly chasing up letting agents about the other work… 

Was chatting with upstairs and we both think she’s dragging her heels on all this a bit so that she can milk me for money for as long as possible as its at least some guaranteed income and if she fixes it all and then tries raising the rent as ill be in a “nicer flat” than I was in maybe is worried that I'll threaten to move out lol.

Blastoise186
Super User
Blastoise186Super User
Super User
November 2, 2023

You should definitely talk to Citizens Advice Bureau about that. Landlords are obligated to assist with keeping the property in a good state of repair and it sounds like your landlord is breaching that requirement.

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tom_j_davey1Author
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November 2, 2023

Final update, Meter has been sorted out and gas is back on, now just to wait for new card and get the refund sorted for the £20 I put on one of the cards that doesn’t work.

    Blastoise186
    Super User
    Blastoise186Super User
    Super User
    November 2, 2023

    Final update, Meter has been sorted out and gas is back on, now just to wait for new card and get the refund sorted for the £20 I put on one of the cards that doesn’t work.

    That’s good. Keep hold of the old cards for now. If OVO is satisfied the credit was never transferred to the meter, then there’s a 100% chance you’ll get that refund. I think they’ll either give it to you in cash (or more likely cheque) or as a voucher code to apply to the new meter - this wouldn’t add a debt to it, just a credit via Remote Token Issue.

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