Multiple standing charges

reb223

Hello, I own a building which is sub-divided into ten flats. There is one main electricity meter, which Scottish Power takes a reading from.

Each flat has it's own sub-meter, paid for and maintained by myself (including billing and all the administration that entails) and nothing to do with the energy companies - in fact, I asked them to put their own meters in and charge the tenants directly, but they refused unless the entire building was rewired to their specifications with my money.

Anyway, Scottish Power are charging 10 service charges, even though there is one bill, one main meter, etc. I was wondering if this is legal? I am comparing it to unlawful bank charges, in that the amount they are charging (10 x service charges) does not reflect the true cost to them (one meter, one meter reading, etc).

I would appreciate any thoughts on this.

Thanks in advance,

Rebecca

tripled

I wouldn't have thought they should be charging you if the property has only one (main) meter and one supply number. If they insist on charging, try switching to a different company and just don't tell them about the sub-meters.

reb223

Thanks for the quick reply! What a good idea, that hadn't even occurred to me. I'll have a look at the energy switching section on this fantastic site.

I wonder if I have a case for reimbursement of charges to date?

tripled

It might be worth considering switching to Ebico, if you have to bill the tenants for what they have used then they have a very simple pricing structure with no service charge, which should make things easier for you.

Whoever you choose, make sure you read the t&c carefully just to make sure there is nothing in there regarding submeters, but I very much doubt you will find anything with most companies.

As to reclaiming the charge, I don't know to be honest, it depends what is in your contract with Scottish Power.