Invented gas and electricity charges?

Invented gas and electricity charges?

8:31 AM, 19th July 2024, About 3 hours ago 3

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Hi all, I’m experiencing problems with gas/electricity suppliers inventing invoices for non-used services.

One of my commercial tenants stopped using gas about 8 years ago and informed the suppliers. They did not receive any further invoices until a month ago.

They are stating a small amount of this year’s standing charges but also over £1000 for an imaginary previous bill. The meter was never removed.

I have another recent example of a friend/property developer who has owned a large derelict property for several years, during this time no gas or electricity has been used. No invoices had been received until recently demanding tens of thousands of pounds for imagined usage.

I have been told that suppliers can only make charges for up to one year’s use unless invoices were sent during the other years which they clearly were not.

I am hoping that some of you may have had similar experiences and will be able to advise on the best way to end these situations?

Many thanks

Alan


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Judith Wordsworth

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11:01 AM, 19th July 2024, About 18 minutes ago

Is supply not used then why wasn’t the meter disconnected? The standing charge will need to be paid. Usage would be determined by last meter reading, when your tenant gave it for “final reading “, they did do this? and the reading now.

Same as your friend’s derelict building. If bought as derelict then on purchase meter readings would have been done when the supply put into their name. If derelict why would you want a live supply of gas to the building?

Just Be Happy

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11:02 AM, 19th July 2024, About 17 minutes ago

The invoices/bills can't be enforced without meter readings. Call up the suppliers, who may not be aware of the relevant facts (invoices are often auto-generated). Ask them to confirm any meter readings, and take it from there... In my experience such bills have been cancelled once an explanation is given.

Just Be Happy

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11:03 AM, 19th July 2024, About 15 minutes ago

p.s. I have also had standing charges cancelled where I could show that there was zero use. However if there is even a slight use the standing charges would usually apply.

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