Smart Prepaid e-Wallet Terms & Conditions

PEC Utility Management (Pty) Ltd (“the Service Provider”) is a private company registered in South Africa. By signing the agreement, the consumer or property owner (“the consumer/owner”) accepts these terms, which together form the entire agreement. No changes are valid unless written and signed by both parties.

The Service Provider may amend the terms to comply with directives or legislation. Services will be delivered once the agreement is signed, and the consumer is liable for consumption charges from the start of use until the final meter reading at termination.

The Service Provider operates under the by-laws of the Local Supply Authority. If water/electricity was consumed without proper metering (e.g. due to faults), usage will be calculated on the average of the past six months and billed accordingly.

Deposits

  • A risk deposit may be required, based on consumer qualification.

  • Deposits are non-interest bearing and may be adjusted annually up to three times the average six-month bill.

  • Refunds occur within 45 business days once written cancellation notice (minimum 14 days), full settlement of usage, and closure of the wallet are completed.

  • Consumers with poor payment history may be required to pay a higher deposit.

Payments

  • Consumers must use the correct reference number when paying.

  • Failure to maintain sufficient prepaid balance will result in disconnection of services.

  • Payments from non-ABSA banks may take up to 48 hours to reflect.

  • Incorrect references delay allocation.

  • The Service Provider is not liable for losses from disconnection due to non-payment or wrong references.

  • Interest on overdue payments is charged under the National Credit Act.

Disconnections & Reconnections

  • Services may be disconnected for:

    • Failure to sign the agreement

    • Non-payment of deposits

    • Non-payment of utilities and charges

  • Reconnections happen only during business hours and may take up to 48 hours after payment. Same-day reconnection fees may apply for water.

  • Consumers failing to pay may be listed with the National Credit Bureau, with an admin fee for listing.

Vacating Premises

  • A Vacating of Premises form must be submitted at least 14 days before leaving.

  • Consumers remain responsible for consumption until forms are received and processed.

  • Forms are available at PEC offices or on the website.

Consumer/Owner Obligations

Consumers must:

  • Subscribe to and use the smart prepaid system for utilities.

  • Follow vending and funding requirements.

  • Avoid tampering with meters.

  • Allow shutdowns for maintenance.

  • Protect household equipment in case of disconnection.

  • Pay for repairs once the 24-month meter guarantee has expired.

  • Cover tampering/vandalism costs.

  • Keep the e-wallet sufficiently funded.

Access and Tampering

The Service Provider must have reasonable access to premises for meter reading, maintenance, and disconnections. If tampering or illegal supply is discovered, services will be terminated, and a tampering fee charged.

Rental via Wallet

If rent is paid through the wallet, rent is deducted first, then utilities. If funds are insufficient, utilities may be disconnected. Consumers must ensure sufficient wallet balance monthly.

Liability

The Service Provider is not liable for:

  • Usage beyond the metering point

  • Leaks beyond the metering point

  • Damage to property or equipment caused by leaks beyond the metering point

POPIA Compliance

  • PEC will use personal information only for providing services.

  • No disclosure will occur without consent, unless required by law.

  • Full POPIA manual available on www.pecutilities.co.za.

  • If the consumer is a legal entity, the signatory binds themselves as surety and co-principal debtor.

  • The signatory warrants that they are authorised to sign.

12. Employees and Agents of PEC

  • Must treat personal information as confidential.

  • Cannot disclose info unless necessary for duties or already public.

  • Must follow POPIA conditions and obtain consent before processing.

Note: PEC may amend these terms and conditions from time to time. Updates will be published on the website.