A confused/scared noob

theMD_2

Hello, everyone

I hope somebody will know what to do here. Story: I moved into my new flat last November and got a huge (356.00) energy bill after the winter months. As I hadn't dealt with my own bills prior to this, I was unprepared (I know, I know...) and told the company (British Gas) I couldn't pay in one go. They refused to split the payment between 6 months like I requested, which is fair enough - they don't have to. So 3 months ago I receive a letter from Allied Int. Credit saying they own the debt now. I sent them a letter back proposing a payment plan and heard nothing back until today. A little British Gas card in my postbox saying they've "had to visit the property" because of bill non-payment and 50 pounds will be added to the outstanding amount! And they are threatening to disconnect my elec supply! (no gas in the flat).

What do I do? I don't understand why the card is from BG if they don't own the debt anymore, and I don't want to phone the debt collectors - everything in writing! I'm scared, please help.

McKneff

In the meantime, have you paid anything off the debt at all

theMD_2

Thank you for thr response. I was waiting to hear back from the collection agency re my payment plan offer so did not pay anything. I have paid all the subsequent bills to BG in full and on time.

It seems like the collectors have just ignored my letter. Shall I try to send it recorded? Doesn't guarantee a response though.

McKneff

Anything like this always send it recorded, if you can, put a cheque into it, even if they wont set up a payment plan, at least you know something is coming off the debt. Is it not possible to borrow from family, friends. Sell some thingss, i know its worrying.
And good for you for keeping present bills up to date, its got to stand in you in good stead and they can see you want to square it up.

McKneff

We do have some experts on here who have forgotten more than I know so be patient and I'm sure you'll get a lot more help.
Not sure that they can just stick £50 on the bill, I know they charge but £50 seems a bit over the top.
If they come back when you are in, dont under any circumstances let them in, make sure the windows are shut and talk to them through the letterbox.

theMD_2

McKneff, thank you so much, you have calmed me down a bit. Borrowing from family/friends is not an option but I can certainly pay something. I was at work so not here when they came, thank god. How real is their threat to disconnect my supply, considering that I've offered to pay, they just chose to ignore it.

thechippy

MD,

Are you still with BG for your electricity??
If you are, change supplier sharpish (they all want your business)
Then, repay bg at your leisure (well, send them what YOU can afford each month - not necessarily what they want)
Check if the dca owns the debt or is just acting on behalf of, then get back to us as this WILL make a big difference and we can assist you further later.

Re the £50 charge, you would need to check the terms of your contract with them.

.......;)

PeterJohnson

It seems harsh to be honest. I have to agree that when you clear this issue up, change supplier.

LovelyLeeds

thechippy wrote: »

MD,

Are you still with BG for your electricity??
If you are, change supplier sharpish (they all want your business)

.......;)

Not sure that any new supplier would be keen to take on someone who is not paying their current bill.
Call centre staff are annoying only because they have to stick to their script, so it's not really their fault, why not give BG a ring, propose a lump sum and a payment plan - ask to speak to the manager if the first person you speak to can't go past their script.

thechippy

I helped someone with this kind of issue recently.
He easily changed supplier with no questions asked and the £400 owed was negotiated down to a full and final of £90.

I do agree however, that they stick to a script and you need to take it further. They will generally negotiate.

McKneff

LovelyLeeds wrote: »

Not sure that any new supplier would be keen to take on someone who is not paying their current bill.
Call centre staff are annoying only because they have to stick to their script, so it's not really their fault, why not give BG a ring, propose a lump sum and a payment plan - ask to speak to the manager if the first person you speak to can't go past their script.

From the OP

I have paid all the subsequent bills to BG in full and on time.