Section 7(10)(iv) in The Tamil Nadu Electricity Supply Code, 2004
(iv)When the meter is owned by the consumer and becomes defective / damaged or when the meter is burnt due to the fault of the consumer, it is the responsibility of the consumer to replace the meter by a healthy one, if he elects to continue to have his own meter. Otherwise, the licensee shall replace the meter and enter into an agreement for hire and collect the specified deposits.