Centralized heating, mandatory remote reading in condominiums from 2027: news and fines

Remote reading is a system that allows you to acquire information on consumption without physically entering the property unit and facilitates more frequent communication of consumption to users. The legislation requires that billing and consumption information be reliable, precise and based on actual consumption or on the reading of accounting systems. Furthermore, the rules on confidentiality and data protection must be respected. Remote reading basically makes accounting more efficient and transparent.

Supply meters, sub-meters and individual heat metering systems installed after 25 October 2020 must already be remotely readable. For previous ones, however, the deadline of 1 January 2027 has been set, in which even older devices will have to be equipped with remote reading capability. The objective is to make more frequent and precise consumption data available, without requiring periodic access to the apartments to physically take readings. Condominiums who reside in buildings with old allocators on the radiators or sub-meters that do not yet have the remote reading function must check as soon as possible whether the devices can be adapted or need to be replaced.

The standard concerns the meters and sub-meters used to measure the consumption of individual units and the individual metering systems installed on the heating elements, while the normal individual electricity and gas meters instead follow a different discipline.

The devices do not necessarily have to be replaced but, depending on the models, there is the possibility that they can be adapted for remote reading. Before proceeding with the purchase of a new device, it is a good idea to check whether the current one can be made compatible with remote reading mode or whether it is necessary to install a new one. The evaluation must be carried out on the basis of the characteristics of the system and the devices already present.

The objective of the new labeling is to allow condominium owners to have a tool with which to evaluate their consumption before the end-of-year adjustments. The new allocators and meters must guarantee a precise standard of communication and transparency, i.e. they must use open and interoperable radio protocols, usually based on the Wireless M-Bus or Open Metering System standard; must allow the transmission of consumption data at least monthly during the heating season; must integrate security and encryption systems to protect the personal data of condominium owners in compliance with the GDPR.

Estimates quantify between 70 and 90 euros for each new remote-readable heat cost allocator, from 50 to 100 euros for installation and configuration: total between 120 and 190 euros per radiator. If the existing valves also need to be changed, another 35-40 euros per element must be taken into account. However, expenses incurred by the owner are generally deductible at 50%.

The advice for condominium owners who live in buildings with central heating is to check the system documentation. The first step consists in identifying which devices are installed, when they were installed and whether they are already set up for remote reading. In fact, many relatively recent devices already have the required function. If, however, the systems are not compatible, it will be necessary to evaluate the adaptation methods and related costs with the maintenance technician or a technician. When the intervention involves a significant condominium expense, the administrator must also bring the matter to the attention of the assembly according to normal management rules.

Anyone who does not comply with the new rules could face fines ranging from 500 to 2,500 euros following the checks that will start from 2027. The fines will be borne by the owners of the properties. And if irregularities also emerge regarding the failure to originally install the valves or accounting, the sanction may extend to the entire condominium.