Electricity · Meter Transfer
How to Transfer an Electricity Connection to Your Name in Pakistan
When you buy a property, inherit one, or move into a place where the electricity connection is still in someone else's name, you need to transfer the meter ownership. This is a common but often confusing process. Here is exactly what to do and what to bring.
When Do You Need a Name Transfer?
Property purchase
You bought a property and the electricity connection is still in the previous owner's name. You need to transfer it before the previous owner's details are used for billing or disputes.
Inheritance
You inherited a property and the deceased person's name is on the electricity account. A name transfer requires a succession certificate or inheritance documents.
Marriage or family transfer
Transferring a connection from a parent's name to a child's name, or between spouses, requires the same documents as any other transfer but some DISCOs have a simplified process for family transfers.
Tenancy ending
In some cases, a previous tenant applied for a connection in their own name. When they leave, the property owner needs to transfer the connection back or to the new tenant.
Documents Required for a Meter Transfer
Requirements vary slightly by DISCO. This list covers the standard documents accepted across most DISCOs.
- Your original CNIC + photocopy
- Previous owner's CNIC photocopy (or death certificate + succession certificate for inheritance)
- Latest paid electricity bill (in the old name)
- Property title deed, sale deed, or registered gift deed
- Affidavit declaring ownership (on stamp paper) — usually Rs 100 to Rs 200 stamp paper
- NOC from the previous account holder (if available — for friendly transfers)
- Application form from your DISCO (available free at the sub-division office)
The Transfer Process
- 1
Collect and prepare all documents
Get all documents listed above. The affidavit needs to be notarised — a lawyer or notary near the DISCO office can do this same day, usually for Rs 300 to Rs 500.
- 2
Visit your DISCO sub-division office
Name transfers are processed at the sub-division level, not at the circle or head office. Use the /offices directory to find your nearest sub-division.
Tip: Go early in the morning. Counter staff typically process new applications before 12 PM — after that the office becomes busy with payment and query customers.
- 3
Submit the application at the consumer services counter
Hand in your documents and get a stamped acknowledgement receipt. Ask for the expected completion date.
- 4
Pay the transfer fee if applicable
Some DISCOs charge a nominal fee for name changes. Ask the counter staff before submitting — fee ranges from Rs 0 to Rs 2,000 depending on the DISCO and connection type.
- 5
Collect the updated bill
After processing (15 to 30 days typically), your next bill will be issued in the new name. Confirm by calling 118 or checking online with your reference number.
Clear All Arrears Before Transferring
The electricity connection cannot be transferred if there are outstanding dues. The DISCO will ask for a no-dues certificate or payment of all arrears before processing the transfer. If the previous owner left unpaid bills, negotiate who pays them as part of the property transaction — buyers should check for arrears before completing a property purchase.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
Can the previous owner refuse to sign an NOC for the transfer?
If the previous owner is unreachable or refuses, you can still proceed with a court order or succession documents. An affidavit of ownership supported by a registered sale deed is generally sufficient for DISCO offices even without the previous owner's cooperation.
How long does a name transfer take?
Most DISCOs process transfers within 15 to 30 days. HESCO and SEPCO may take longer. Follow up with the sub-division office after 2 weeks if you have not received confirmation.
Do I need to get a new reference number after a name transfer?
No. The reference number stays the same — only the account holder's name changes. You continue using the same reference number for bill checking and payments.
What if I am renting and the landlord won't transfer the meter?
As a tenant, you cannot unilaterally transfer a connection to your name without the owner's consent. Your options are to pay the bill directly using the existing reference number, or negotiate with the landlord to have the billing updated. If the landlord is collecting payment from you but not paying the DISCO, the connection can be disconnected and you have grounds for a formal dispute.