Russia to simplify utility bill reductions for service disruptions
Meter readings will be the key evidence for automatic utility bill recalculations.
Russian authorities plan to introduce automatic recalculation of utility bills for service interruptions. The corresponding government document is under development.
The main innovation will be the transition to a no-application procedure for reducing payments for poor-quality utility services or those provided with excessive interruptions. The basis for recalculation will be the readings of metering devices that record violations, TASS reports.
Under current regulations, to obtain a recalculation, the consumer must personally record the violation: call the emergency dispatch service, draw up a report with the participation of a representative of the management company and neighbors, and then send a written application to the management company. For each hour beyond the norm of interruption in the supply of electricity, gas, heating, hot or cold water, the monthly payment is reduced by 0.15%.
The issue of simplifying the procedure is included in the plan of measures in the business environment. By September 2026, a report for the cabinet of ministers must be prepared, and by February 2028 — if necessary — a new regulatory act of the Russian government will be developed.
This is especially relevant against the backdrop of tariff increases and other changes in the housing and utilities sector. However, part of the utility costs can be compensated. Some Russians are eligible for a discount. More about the opportunities was told in a separate material.
