Utilities glossary
HOA, regulator, consumption norm, meter verification, penalty — utility billing terms
Utilities glossary
HOA (OSBB):
Association of co-owners of an apartment building — self-governance: tariffs, contractors, repairs.
NKREKP:
National energy and utilities regulator — sets tariffs and quality standards.
Consumption norm:
Service volume per person without a meter (m³ water, m³ gas); usually higher than real use.
Verification:
Metrological meter check; interval 4–6 years for water, 8 for gas.
Penalty:
3% yearly (or per contract) for late payment; accrues after the 20th.
Recalculation:
Billing adjustment: for absence, household change, wrong readings.
Subsidy:
Non-cash compensation of part of the bill by family income; granted by the Pension Fund.
Benefit:
Status discount (disabled, veteran etc.); works within area/consumption norms.
Distribution vs supply:
Distribution — grid tariff, same for all; supply — resource price, supplier can be switched.
EIC code:
Metering point code — your address/meter identifier in the supplier system.
Heat meter:
Heat metering device for building/flat; per-flat ones need a special design.
Advance payment:
Prepayment for services; reduces debt but is optional — paying for actual use is fine.