Thames Water problems

moley760

Hi, wonder if you guys can help me please.
I moved into a new build property in Swindon in July 2010, and left in December 2011. I called Thames Water many times over the course of my tenancy, at first the property didn't exist on their system, then I eventually got an account but they then refused to believe I had a meter (it had been there since the beginning!). Kept getting letters saying you should get a meter, even though I already had one (though with a load of other properties, couldn't tell which one it was or get into the pavement compartment where they were). Every time I rang I was told there'd be an "investigation", before hearing nothing and getting another letter inviting me to install a meter. Eventually, on the day I moved out, an engineer came and identified and read the meter. After I moved, I received an unmetered estimated bill, which I thought was too high. Rang and explained, was told again there'd be an investigation, then heard nothing. The other week I got a letter from a debt collection agency out of the blue, still for the unmetered amount. I rang up and was told I could not I was not eligible for a metered reading as I never formally "requested" a meter, even though there was one there. So I've no idea of my options now other than pay the bill which I think is about £200 more than it should be. It was a one bedroom flat with one person living in it. Any advice would be fantastic. Thanks.

Cardew

All new build properties since 1990 have a meter.

A bit late for you now, but why do people spend hours ringing when a quick email will get far better results.

If you are convinced you have been unjustly treated, and the debt passed to a DCA, then contact the Consumer Council for water and ask them to investigate.

However you will need a strong argument backed with facts, not - 'I think the bill is about £200 more than it should be'

moley760

I tried to email and write to them as well as calling, I don't think they really had a clue what was going on, so just let it carry on. Thanks for your advice anyway.