“How do you read my meter? And how do I know the meter is accurate?”

In the City of Chicago, nearly all gas meters have devices that transmit usage readings to Peoples Gas vans that travel throughout the city. This way, we can read your meter without having to enter your home and inconvenience you.

If you live in Chicago and your residential meter isn't automated already, visit us at www.service.peoplesenergy.com to schedule a SureRead installation. We're proud to report that more than 95% of our meters have been automated.

Most North Shore Gas meters are outside the home so they are read every other month by our meter readers. During the month the meter isn't read, your bill is estimated based on the amount of gas used in previous months and weather conditions during the billing period. Any difference between an estimated bill and the next actual reading is adjusted so that you pay exactly for the gas you used—not a penny more.

If you have any questions or concerns about the accuracy of your reading, let us know and we'll check it out. A good first step would be to read the meter before you contact us. It's easy to do if you read and follow these simple instructions.

“Isn’t it part of your job to check the meters?”

Yes. Each year, we test and replace thousands of meters to ensure that you are receiving timely and accurate bills and to make sure the meter is working properly. In fact, we are required by the Illinois Commerce Commission to read and inspect meters regularly.

“What should I do if I receive a notice in the mail?”

If you receive a notice by mail or a phone call telling you that we need to access your gas meter, please respond immediately. We have many convenient times available for you to schedule an inspection or allow us to change your meter. Unfortunately, if we don't hear from you, we might be forced to disconnect your gas service—and that's something we would both like to avoid.

To schedule an appointment and view a complete listing of available dates and times, please visit our Web site at www.service.peoplesenergy.com. It's the simplest and fastest way to schedule an appointment on the date and time that's most convenient for you.