Can you switch if you owe them money?

scooterpig

Hi,

I'm with Scottish Hydro for electricity and gas. I pay a fixed direct debit each month (they recommended the amount). Thing is, a balance has built up on each account - about £200 on each. The hydro have never queried it, presumably because they're getting their eighty-odd quid a month anyway.

I think they're expensive and want to switch. Do I have to pay the outstanding amount to the hydro before I can do this, or does the whole account as it stands transfer to a new supplier. I've never tried switching gas or electricity supplier before so I'm a bit clueless as to how it works.

Thanks!

tootles_2

You will have to clear both accounts before they will allow you to transfer your accounts to another provider.

ffs

I believe this is one reason that companies set the original monthly payments deliberately low - to prevent people from switching easily.

scott_lithgows

!!!!!! wrote:

I believe this is one reason that companies set the original monthly payments deliberately low - to prevent people from switching easily.

Agreed,also the first month,s direct debit not being taken to put you in their debt.

jockettuk

and this is also why we as consumers should check our accts yearly and up the dd amounts if we owe money or pay off the balance..

captain_insano

Energywatch sought new rules last year to counter this. If you owe under £100 you are supposed to be allow to switch under these new rules.