Introduction

When you buy a house, shop or plot in an area served by MEPCO, the electricity bill often still shows the previous owner’s name. To avoid future problems, it is usually better to transfer the meter ownership to the new owner.

This guide explains, in simple language:

• When you should change the name on your MEPCO bill
• Which documents are normally required
• Step‑by‑step process at the MEPCO office
• Important tips to avoid delays and disputes

This is general information only. Exact rules and requirements can change, so always confirm details with your local MEPCO office.

What Does “Ownership” on a MEPCO Bill Mean?

The name printed on your MEPCO bill is usually treated as the registered consumer or owner of the electricity connection.

That person is normally responsible for:

• Paying all current and outstanding bills
• Following MEPCO rules and safety regulations
• Any legal or recovery action in case of non‑payment

If the name on the bill does not match the current property owner, it can create issues later, especially when:

• Selling the property
• Applying for loan/mortgage
• Handling legal matters or disputes

That is why changing the ownership/name on the MEPCO bill is important after a sale, inheritance or transfer.

When Should You Change the Name on Your MEPCO Bill?

Here are common situations where a name transfer is useful or necessary:

1. You bought a house, shop or plot
   The previous owner’s name is still on the MEPCO bill, but you are now the legal owner.
2. Property is transferred within the family
   For example, from parents to children, or between siblings.
3. Inheritance after death of the original owner
   The original consumer has passed away and legal heirs now own the property.
4. Change of ownership of business premises
   A shop, office, factory or other commercial property has been sold or ownership changed.
5. Record correction
   There is a spelling mistake or wrong name printed on the bill which needs to be corrected.

Tenants normally do not need to transfer the name, but it can sometimes be done if the landlord agrees and MEPCO rules allow it for that category.

Why It Is Important to Transfer Ownership

Changing the name on the bill protects both buyer and seller:

• For the new owner:
  • Proves that you are the registered consumer.
  • Makes it easier to prove utility payments.
  • Reduces risk of facing issues due to old unpaid bills.
• For the old owner:
  • Helps avoid being contacted later for bills, arrears or misuse of electricity at a property they no longer own.

Many buyers also prefer that all utility records match the name on the property documents, especially for future resale or bank work.

Documents Required for MEPCO Name Transfer

Exact requirements can vary by connection type (domestic/commercial) and by MEPCO sub‑division. However, commonly requested documents include:

• Application form for “Change of Name / Transfer of Connection” (available from MEPCO office).
• Copy of latest MEPCO bill (preferably paid).
• CNIC copy of the new owner (front and back).
• CNIC copy of the previous owner (if available) or seller.
• Proof of ownership of property (such as:
  • Registered sale deed / Registry / Fard / Allotment letter / Transfer letter – according to local practice).
• No Objection Certificate (NOC) from previous owner, where required.
• Affidavit / Undertaking on stamp paper (in some cases) confirming the transfer request and accepting responsibility for future bills.
• For inheritance cases:
  • Death certificate of original owner
  • Succession certificate / legal heirship documents
  • CNIC copies of legal heirs

For commercial / industrial connections, MEPCO may also ask for:

• Business registration documents
• NTN certificate or company letterhead
• Partnership deed or board resolution (for companies)

Always ask your local MEPCO customer service or sub‑division office for a current list of required documents before you apply.

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Step‑by‑Step Process to Change Ownership

The general process is similar in most MEPCO areas, but names of forms and counters may differ slightly.

Step 1: Visit Your MEPCO Office

• Go to the concerned sub‑division office or customer services center for your area (the address is usually mentioned on your bill).
• Ask at the information desk for the procedure to change the name / transfer ownership for your connection.

Step 2: Get the Official Application Form

• Request the “Change of Name / Transfer of Connection” form (or similar title).
• Some offices may display forms on notice boards or provide them at a dedicated counter.

Step 3: Fill Out the Form Carefully

Typical information required on the form includes:

• Existing consumer number and reference number (from your bill)
• Current name and address as shown on the bill
• New owner’s full name, father/husband name
• New owner’s CNIC number and contact information
• Type of connection (domestic, commercial, etc.)
• Reason for name transfer (sale, inheritance, correction, etc.)

Fill all fields carefully and clearly. Use the same spellings as on the CNIC and property documents.

Step 4: Attach All Required Documents

Attach photocopies of the documents requested by your MEPCO office, such as:

• Latest paid MEPCO bill
• CNIC copies
• Proof of ownership
• NOC from seller (if required)
• Affidavit / undertaking
• In inheritance cases, relevant legal documents

Keep one full set of photocopies for your personal record.

Step 5: Submit the Application

• Submit the filled form along with all attachments at the relevant MEPCO counter.
• Ask for an acknowledgement slip, receipt or diary number for your application.
• Note down the contact details of the concerned official or section handling name transfer requests.

Step 6: Site Verification (If Required)

In many cases, MEPCO may:

• Send a meter reader or inspector to confirm:
  • Meter number
  • Load / usage
  • Occupant of the premises
• Verify that there is no illegal extension or tampering.

Be cooperative with any staff who visit and keep your documents ready to show if requested.

Step 7: Clear Outstanding Dues

Before approval of name transfer:

• All pending bills and arrears are usually required to be cleared.
• Sometimes MEPCO may ask for a security deposit adjustment or additional deposit, especially if the connection load is changed.

Decide with the seller/previous owner who will pay any old dues. It is best to settle this at the time of property sale.

Step 8: Approval and System Update

Once MEPCO completes checking:

• Your request is processed and, if approved, the consumer record is updated in the system.
• The new owner’s name will start appearing on the upcoming bills.

Step 9: Confirm the Change on Your Next Bill

• Keep an eye on your next 1–2 MEPCO bills.
• Check that:
  • The name is updated correctly
  • Consumer number and reference number are the same
  • There are no unexpected charges

If the change does not appear after a reasonable time, visit the office again with your receipt/acknowledgement and ask for an update.

Special Cases

1. Inheritance / Legal Heir

When the original consumer has passed away:

• Name transfer is usually done in favor of one or more legal heirs.
• Additional documents may be required, such as:
  • Death certificate
  • Succession certificate / legal heir certificate
  • NOCs from other heirs in favor of the applicant

Always confirm exact requirements from the MEPCO office, as inheritance procedures can be more detailed.

2. Tenants and Rented Properties

If you are a tenant:

• In many cases, the connection remains in the landlord’s name, and you simply pay the bills.
• Some landlords and tenants agree to change the name or add notes, but MEPCO will follow its own rules for the category.

If you want more security as a tenant, you can:

• Sign a written agreement with the landlord about bill payment responsibilities.
• Keep receipts of all payments you make.

Important Tips to Avoid Problems

• Check dues before buying property
  Ask the seller to show the latest paid electricity bill and confirm there are no arrears.
• Use the same name format everywhere
  The name on the bill, CNIC and property documents should match (spelling, father’s name, etc.) to reduce verification issues.
• Keep copies of everything
  Photocopy all forms and documents you submit, and keep your application or diary number safe.
• Follow up politely
  If your name is not updated within the expected time, visit or call the office with your reference details instead of assuming it is rejected.
• Don’t rely on verbal promises only
  Always submit a proper written application and get official acknowledgement.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long does it take to change the name on a MEPCO bill?

Processing time can vary by area and workload. In many cases, it may take one or more billing cycles after approval. Your local office can give you a more accurate estimate.

Is the previous owner required to be present?

Not always, but:
1. A signed NOC or affidavit from the previous owner is often required, especially when based on sale.
2. Some offices may ask for the seller’s presence in complicated cases.
Check with your local MEPCO office for their current practice.

Do I have to clear old arrears before transferring the name?

Generally, yes. MEPCO normally requires that all arrears and charges on the connection are settled before or as part of the transfer. Many buyers make this a condition in their sale agreement.

Can I keep the connection in the old owner’s name?

Some people do this, but it is not recommended. It can create legal and practical problems later for both buyer and seller. Changing the name to the current owner is usually safer.

Can I change the ownership on my MEPCO bill online?

In most areas, name transfer is still handled at the MEPCO office, because original documents need to be checked and signatures verified. Some basic services may appear on MEPCO or related online portals in the future, but for now you should assume that:
1. You will visit the concerned sub‑division or customer service center in person
2. Submit a written application with all required documents
To be sure, check the official MEPCO website or call the helpline and ask if online name transfer is available in your specific area before you go.