Smart meter means you do not have to do either. Meter itself can send the readings nearly live over power network or mobile connection. Thus no human needs to read the meter anymore. Saves time and trouble on all sides.

They no longer send workers monthly. Quarterly at best. Add the complications with the access into each type of building to read the meters. Also pay the worker, pay for their heathcare, when the meters can send live updates over NB IoT.