Calor gas refusing to deliver gas

heavenly_hejare

Hi I wonder if anyone can offer some advice on what my rights are regarding being refused gas.

I live in a semi-rural location without a mainline gas supply so we have our gas delivered by Calor Gas.

I have recently returned to my home after living abroad for a couple of years but was still the account holder on the bill. The family member in charge of paying the bills in my absence basically didn't. The bill was eventually paid off in full just before my return. My gas tank is now almost empty and when I phoned Calor Gas to order a delivery, I was told that there was a legal notice on the account (even though the account was £36 in credit) and that I would have to build up credit or pay for the gas in full before delivery. I asked about setting up a direct debit as I can't afford to pay the £300 for a full tank of gas upfront (I am currently unemployed-looking for work and finding it incredibly difficult!) and was told that would be sufficient. I set up a dd for £50 a month and when I called to place an order was told I would still have to pay £200 for the gas upfront and they would not deliver gas until this was done. The tank is refilled on average every 8 months.

The account is now £86 in credit so there is no debt on the account. They're not refusing me gas because I have unpaid debts.

Even though I am not on a mainline pipe and my gas has to be specially delivered, does this still count as a disconnection? Since there are no children living at the property nor elderly people, I cannot be considered a "vulnerable" customer. If gas is being refused do the same procedures still need to be adhered to by Calor Gas as it would if a piped gas connection was to be disconnected? What are my rights? Do Calor Gas have a right to refuse me gas during winter even though I have set up a payment plan?

I think I have only a few days worth of gas left and it's pretty chilly outside.

I've tried looking online but can't seem to find any information on this and would be greatful for any advice that can be offered my way.

KimYeovil

Get the money from the family member.

You have no right to be granted credit by a private company. Your 'friend' has already messed you up over that. Whilst waiting and saving up the money you may have to use an electric heater.

spiro

Agree with KimYeovil. Your family member messed up things for you, get them to lend you the money.

tanith

In desperation couldn't you just order as much gas as you can afford to pay for up front, at least it would get you through the next couple of months

kippen_noedel

If you are unemployed aren't there emergency loans available from the government ?

heavenly_hejare

@KimYeovil and Spiro- I can't do this as the family member is over £40,000 in debt and we recently completed one of those budget debt forms to start paying off the debts. He didn't open any letters for over a year because he didn't want to acknowledge his debts.

@Tanith- unfortunately it doesn't quite work like that and they are unwilling to even fill half the tank up.

It is not just central heating that we will be left without but also hot water and use of the oven and hob.

spiro

As you are unemployed and signing on, have you tried the Social in case there is any form of loan they can make you?