EDF bill 2 years late! Do I have to pay?

Zombie_Chick

Hi there - I'm a newbie on here and am wondering if anyone has some advice for me?

I used to use EDF energy (dual fuel) up until March 2011 in my old house. This week (w/c 21/1/13) I have just received the final electricity bill from them, nearly 2 years late! When I called them, they said the delay was due to the account not being closed properly, which seems a bit suspicious as they managed to get the final gas bill out at the right time back in 2011. I supplied them with closing meter readings etc. and the transition to the new provider seemed to go smoothly.

I'm trying to find out if they're allowed to ask me for this money so far after the fact? I've heard about the 'back billing' rule where they can't bill me for service more than a year ago if it's their fault there's a delay (if I understand it correctly). I realise this isn't put in place to allow people to just avoid paying their bills, but I haven't budgeted for this expense straight after Xmas and I was under the impression that account was settled long ago (I only realise now, in hindsight, that I'd only settled the gas portion of the account).

So can anyone give me any advice as to where I stand with this bill? I mentioned the 'back billing' thing to EDF and they are going to investigate it and let me know.

Any advice much appreciated!

ZC

Only_a_ginger

Sounds pretty cut and dry to me!

Essentially, Billing Code protects customers and, where the supplier is at fault they cannot charge for any previously unbilled consumption greater than 12 months old.

I fully expect them to wipe the balance clean...so long as they haven't previously tried to contact you, and made sufficient attempts, in the last 2 years.

t0rt0ise

Don't just leave it though. Contact them, best to write with a signed for mail, and tell them that the backbilling rule applies and you therefore don't expect to pay etc.