Repossession Utilities

kibs88

I was just wondering if anyone could help me!

I am in the process of buying a repossession and havent got a clue about what to do about utilities/phone/broadband etc.

Do we have to use the provider the previous occupants were with?

What if they had exisitng debts?

What if we cannot find out who the providers were?

Any info would help!

Thanks

Doozergirl

You do not have to use the same providers but you'll have to start with them as they are the existing providers.

If they have debts, they belong to the repossessed party. I've mostly found that repossessed houses have had prepayment meters installed. They have debts too so don't be fooled into thinking they're clean! the standing charge on those things really adds up and you'll find yourself sticking £10 in a £7 disappearing immediately.

I've called British Gas in the past to find out who my providers are. Played dumb and told them I assumed I was with them for gas

The utilities have normally been cut off so don't expect any electricity for a few days after buying - or to pay for an emergency callout if it's a normal meter.

poppysarah

Nowt til you have keys.

Take pics of meters [1] when you move in and ring meter number place to find out who it's with. You should be able to change to whoever you want.

Meter Number Helpline on 0870 608 1524.

[1] For your reference and so you get a starting point for billing ... and if you have meters - sometimes they get took out.

kibs88

thanks that really helps!

I did not have a clue as there is plenty of info for existing customers but nothing thats helps when buying a repo or any other property!

Thank u both for the info