Switching supplier when in debt (prepayment meter)

gcl999

Just to let people know. Have been just switched suppliers with a debt of £105 on my gas meter. Took about 10 phone calls and a lot of frustration. Apparently neither my old supplier (E.on) and my new one (Ebico/SSE) are aware of the change in OFGEM's regulations regarding switching whilst owing a debt.

Threshold doubled from £100 to £200 on 18 Jan 2010 but it seems either energy companies are either ignoring it or are ignorant of changes.

Just quote change and date it happened and they should let you change.

Good Luck!!!

Former_E.ON_Company_Representative:_Malc

Hi gcl999

I'm sorry you had such a frustrating time trying to switch supplier.

You are absolutely spot on. The rules changed a few months ago in relation to Prepayment customers wishing to change supplier but with a debt on the meter.

It is the Debt Assignment Protocol (DAP) and the limit changed from £100 to £200.

This means if a Prepayment customer has a debt of up to £200 and wants to change supplier, the preferred supplier must take on the debt.

We have a DAP team who look after these transfers for customers applying to join us. Customers wishing to move away from us need to contact their preferred supplier to start the process.

Again, I'm sorry it took so many phone calls to sort out. If anyone else has similar difficulties please quote the above protocol. If the agent you are speaking to does not recognise it, ask to be referred to their manager as they will be aware of this.

Malc