Estimates in the heating bill

Estimates in heating bills are only permissible if consumption data is missing – for example, due to equipment failure or if a meter reading was not possible. The Heating Costs Ordinance regulates how accurate the estimates must be. The most reliable method is based on the previous year's consumption.

Why are estimates used in heating bills?

Estimates in heating bills become necessary when measurement data is missing. Typical reasons include:

• Defective measuring instruments
• No attendance at two meter reading appointments
• Denied access to the apartment

Without complete data, consumption cannot be accurately determined. Therefore, the Heating Cost Ordinance (HKVO) Under certain conditions, the estimate.

Legal requirements for estimates

According to the Heating Costs Ordinance, Section 9a applies:

• Estimates are only permissible if proper recording was not possible.
• A maximum of 25% of the total living area of ​​a building may be estimated.
• If this limit is exceeded, billing for the entire building will be based on living space.

How do estimates work in heating cost statements?

Three methods are permitted for estimating heating costs:

1. Estimate based on previous year's consumption
   The percentage consumption share from the previous year is carried over. This method is the most accurate, but may only be used once – to prevent manipulation.
2. Comparable spaces in the building
   If data is missing for a room, the average of similar rooms in the house is used. Prerequisite: at least two comparable rooms must be available.
3. Average consumption in the building
   If neither of the first two methods is applicable, the average consumption of the entire building is used – either per square meter or per device type.

Additionally permitted:

• ProjectionsFor example, if equipment was installed too late, the missing time periods will be billed proportionally.

Presentation of the estimated values ​​in the invoice

In the heating bill, a simple reference to the estimate and the method used is sufficient. Only in exceptional cases do users request detailed calculation data. Brunata Minol provides this upon request.

Example of a presentation of estimated consumption values ​​in a heating bill. The detailed calculation basis can be requested from the metering service if needed. Experience shows that the simplified statement is sufficient for most consumers.

Will the estimated value be adjusted in the following year?

That depends on the device type:

• Water and heat meters: Estimation differences will be automatically corrected with the next reading.
• Electronic heat cost allocators: No compensation is possible, as devices start from scratch every year.
• Evaporator: No technical compensation is possible. Consumption is estimated for two years if necessary to avoid over- or under-reporting.

Rights and obligations for tenants and landlords

• Tenants and owners: They must provide access to measuring devices.
• Landlord: They are not allowed to charge any markups for appraised values.
• Renter: Estimates cannot be reduced across the board – the procedures are legally permissible.

In case of disputes, the landlord can apply for a court order to read the meter.

How can estimates be avoided?

More and more apartments are inaccessible to meter readers – especially in large cities. Wireless metering technology offers a solution:

• Remote meter reading without entering the apartment
• Reliable data collection even during absence
• Reduction of estimates in heating cost statements

Conclusion

Estimates in heating cost statements are regulated by law and permitted under certain conditions. Estimating based on previous years' figures is considered the best method, provided it is used only once. Transparent presentation in the statement is crucial.

recommended action

Landlords should switch to wireless technology wherever possible to avoid estimations. If unsure about the application of estimation methods, consulting an experienced billing service provider like Brunata Minol is recommended.