Dispute With Ex Flatmate

gmanarran

Hi,

I hope I am being as clear as possible here when outlining my problem.

I moved into a flat in August 2010 and myself and flatmate both signed the lease so both of us were responsible for the property.

The Gas and Electricity with Scottish Power had both of our names on it but he assumed responsibility as 'payer' of the account.

(note - for the first bill August to October, I was the 'payer' and paid in full - £60.47 but the payer name was changed to the flatmate)

The next bill October - January came in for the sum of £189. Due to him owing me money for a phone bill (£30) I gave him £60 cash to make it up to my share of £90. I saw this bill so knew how much was owed by myself. I have since discovered he paid the £60 to Scottish Power but nothing of his own share.

Now, my flatmate recently disappeared a couple of weeks ago and I have been since wondering where the next bill has been.

So, I phone Scottish Power today and have been informed that the account is in arrears of £571.15.

The bill Jan - Apr I never saw, presumably because it showed he had not paid his share and he didnt want to reveal that.

I believe I am liable for £250 of this which I intend to pay within the month. However, Scottish Power tell me because I am named I will be responsible for the whole outstanding amount despite having received no bill in my name.

I will be able to find the guys new address fairly easily. What should be my next course of action?

Thanks.

Joyful

You will have to take him to the small claims court. The supplier will hold you liable for 100%.

flashg67

My opinion only, but as you're both on the account, you are both liable. Therefore, if one person doesn't pay, they will chase the other one for the full amount. If you can afford it, it would be better to pay the arrears and chase your ex mate for their share to avoid any damage to your credit file. Do contact Scottish Power though as you may be able to work out a payment plan?

gmanarran

I spoke with Scottish Power today and they have put it down as a 3rd party dispute but will take nothing to do with it.

Im sure they will take a payment plan If I explain to them I cannot pay in full and will be forced to default if they dont.

I will threaten him with small claims court and hopefully this will do the job, but ive just found out he hasnt been paying his rent either and owes the landlord £400 odd quid so he will no doubt be taking legal proceedings.

gmanarran

Can someone help me out with the correct procedure for taking someone to small claims court?

ColinFishwick

You can do it online or local office

Bare in mind there is a cost involved and even if you win the ex flat mate may not pay which would mean bailiffs and high costs if you pursue that avenue may a letter to him may scare him

online https://www.moneyclaim.gov.uk/web/mcol/welcome


http://www.hmcourts-service.gov.uk/infoabout/claims/index.htm


TBH with your other posts I think he probably call your bluff

gmanarran wrote: »

Can someone help me out with the correct procedure for taking someone to small claims court?

Scottish_Power

Hi gmanarran,

From what you have said is does sound like we will hold you liable for the full balance, however if you wish to contact me at [EMAIL="onlinecomplaints@scottishpower.com"]onlinecomplaints@scottishpower.com[/EMAIL] I can arrange apayment plan for you.

Kind regards

Graeme @ ScottishPower

gmanarran

scottishpower_company_representative wrote: »

Hi gmanarran,

From what you have said is does sound like we will hold you liable for the full balance, however if you wish to contact me at [EMAIL="onlinecomplaints@scottishpower.com"]onlinecomplaints@scottishpower.com[/EMAIL] I can arrange apayment plan for you.

Kind regards

Graeme @ ScottishPower

OK Graeme it looks like Ill have to settle for paying the balance myself and sattempt to get my money back from the other party.

Ill be in touch soon.