Company not debiting for work finished!

MrWouk

Hi, Over a month ago now I had my boiler fixed and serviced by a respectable local boiler repair company. The cost was approx £500 and I had to give my debit card details over the phone so that I would be charged back at the office. The engineer made me electronically sign for work completed twice on his pad, although there were no words to read; he said it was just to confirm he'd completed the work. I paid savings to cover the amount to be debited into my account. After a week, with no debit, I chased the company and was told I'd missed that week's accounting and that accounts with my charge would be debited the following Monday, and go out on the Friday. On that Friday, still no debit. And nearly 3 weeks later, still no debit. It's very difficult as well as frustrating making sure I keep the money saved for this purpose intact in my account over a month of waiting, and wonder what my rights are should I go over my balance into the reserved money, meaning the debit doesn't go through, or it does and my bank charge me! How long can a company hold on to a promise of a debit of funds - for as long as they like? And why should it be up to me to keep raising my phone bill ringing a customer service desk again and again that's staffed by just one receptionist who is often away from her desk when I call anyway? Any advice welcome!!
MrWouk

Cardew

How long can a company hold on to a promise of a debit of funds - for as long as
they like?

Six years. - Five years in Scotland.

It is a valid debt.

j2011

How difficult is it to mentally remove £500 from your bank balance every time you get a statement or check your balance?

How do you manage your direct debits?

Or any other amount due to come out of your bank account at a future date