A duly authorized officer or agent of the utility may enter, at all reasonable times, any building or other location supplied with service by the utility, for the inspection and examination of meters, pipes, fittings, wires and works for supplying or regulating the supply of gas, electricity or steam, and of ascertaining the quantity of gas, electricity, or steam supplied, provided such agent exhibits a photo-identification badge and written authority as provided in section 65(9) of the Public Service Law.

Except to the extent prevented by circumstances beyond its control, a utility shall conduct a field inspection as soon as reasonably possible and within 60 calendar days of the following:

A customer who, at any time, directly or indirectly prevents or hinders a duly authorized officer or agent of the utility from entering the building or location, or from making an inspection or examination, at any reasonable time, may be billed a $100 penalty charge for each such offense as provided in section 65(9)(b) of the Public Service Law, so long as such charge is contained in the utility's tariff.

Nothing contained in this section shall be construed to impair a utility's rights as to any other person who prevents access to utility meters and/or equipment.