Electricity key meter-HELP!

bristolgymdude

I am preparing to moving imto a property and the electricity key meter has a £248 debt on it. I have contacted Scottish power and they have stated that I would not be responsible for this debt. ANy advice before actually exchanging contracts and moving in?

Joyful

Scottish Power will send you a key that will wipe the debt. Make sure you action this a few days before you move in so the key arrives in time.

bristolgymdude

Thank you so much for that advice! I do not want to have to pay someone else's debt.

bristolgymdude

I have been told that I will be given a code to put into the meter to wipe the debt. How do I stand if I continue with British Gas and the previous tennant/meter is with Scottish Power?

Mankysteve

You'll have to switch suppliers but there should be no problems doing ti just moved from Scottish power to BG but I've had Bg take the key meter out.

bristolgymdude

Did that cost you anything to get it removed?

djtomturner

Please dont worry about the key meter issue...

I work for E.on and have been part of our pre payment dept for some time now.

The key meter system is clever in the way any debt accrued on the meter relative to anyone there before you can certainly be cleared off.

The code they mentioned isnt put into the meter, you take your key for the meter along to a local shop (payzone etc) and the code is put onto the key, its kind of like an overwriting process.
Take the key home, pop into the meter and leave for a few mins, this will reset the meter and a clear history for you!

As for changing suppliers, there is no problem there at all.

The new suppliers simply send out replacement devices (key for the meter) at the point your due to commence supply with them, same process as above the new key will reset the meter and put the new suppliers pricing structure into the meter.

If your looking to remove the meter for a credit type (direct debit etc) then you need to speak with the supplier as different policies exist.

Hope this helps!

Mankysteve

it did not cost me anything with BG but would have cost me £60 to replace the meter and £300 security deposit. While I understand this charges and I don't think unreasonably high why pay for something if you don't have to. BG are properly not the only company that will switch you for free.