Among the circumstances where meter reading cannot be carried out are: the gate is locked, the door is locked, the premises owner or their agent does not grant entry permission, the premises is guarded by a fierce, unchained dog, the meter is obstructed from normal view, the meter glass is unclean, unclear or hazy due to the consumer's own action, circumstances beyond the licensee's control such as a natural disaster, or access to the premises being obstructed due to riots, unrest and strikes, or any other circumstance endangering the licensee's safety.

In such circumstances, the licensee may issue an estimated bill to the consumer based on past electricity usage history and records. Consumers are required to contact the licensee promptly to obtain the actual meter reading.