Electricity meters must be installed in dedicated, accessible enclosures with sufficient space, proper height, and clearance, and only approved metering and associated equipment should occupy the meter box.

General Location and Accessibility

Meters should be installed in locations that are readily accessible for operation, inspection, and maintenance. They must not be placed in areas requiring access through interior lines of a building, such as carports, breezeways, or parking garages, and should avoid proximity to hazards like gas meters or corrosive atmospheres ( ). The preferred height for meter viewing windows is 1.4 to 1.8 meters above finished ground level, ensuring readability and accessibility for meter readers ( ). For residential installations, distribution boards and consumer units are typically mounted between 1.0 and 1.8 meters, with 1.3 meters recommended for elderly or handicapped users ( ).

Enclosure and Equipment Restrictions

Meter enclosures are designed exclusively for electricity industry apparatus, including the meter, main isolating device, communications hub, and possibly a single- or double-pole isolation device ( ). No additional equipment unrelated to metering or supply should be installed, as this can obstruct future upgrades, smart meter installation, or maintenance, and may result in financial penalties or reputational issues for installers ( ).

Clearance and Working Space

Adequate working space must be provided around the meter and distribution board. For single-phase installations, a minimum mounting plate size of 430mm high, 360mm wide, and 120mm deep is recommended, while two- and three-phase installations require 500mm high, 400mm wide, and 120mm deep clearance from the mounting plate to the inside of the closed door ( ). A minimum 36-inch clearance should be maintained from gas meters, propane tanks, or piping ( ).

Mounting and Protection

Meters should be mounted on unencumbered plates or rails within the enclosure, ensuring the register is clearly visible through the meter box window ( ). Cables may enter from the top of the meter box but must not obstruct meter installation or load control devices, and looping from meter terminals is prohibited ( ). All protection devices within the meter box should be Close Current Protection type, and switchgear must meet appropriate IP ratings if installed outdoors ( ).

Summary

• Location: Accessible, safe, and free from hazards; avoid interior or obstructed access.
• Height: 1.4–1.8 meters for meter windows; 1.0–1.8 meters for distribution boards.
• Enclosure Use: Only approved metering and associated equipment.
• Clearance: Sufficient working space around the meter; minimum 36-inch clearance from gas or propane.
• Mounting: Unencumbered plates/rails; clear visibility; proper protection devices. Following these requirements ensures compliance with safety standards, facilitates maintenance, and prevents interference with future upgrades or smart meter installations ( ).