Pre-payment meters & credit rating

Gnomeking

Hi,

I have just moved into a house where the previous occupiers had gas and electricity pre-payment meters installed.

I am having real problems getting the gas meter (in particular) replaced as british gas tell me that I have to use the meter 3 times before they will consider replacing it with a credit based system.

My credit is just fine at the moment, but I have heard that some credit based systems just ask if you have ever used a pre-payment meter - so I am very concerned about being forced to use one just because I moved into a house!

Does anyone have any advice about how I can get the meter changed, or any advice on whether my concerns about using the meter are justified?

Thanks,

Bob

tripled

What credit based systems ask if you have ever used a prepayment meter? It's the first time I've heard of that one.

Gnomeking

tripled wrote: »

What credit based systems ask if you have ever used a prepayment meter? It's the first time I've heard of that one.

Well, that is somewhat reassuring!

I don't recall anyone asking if I have used a pre-payment meter in the past, but when I explained the issue to one of my friends they were adamant that some of them do ask such questions.

If such questions aren't (or can't?) be asked, then my objection to using them comes down to the inconvenience and additional cost.

tripled

Just stick 3 payments of a fiver on it in a week then get them to change it. If there is still any credit on the meter when it is removed it would be knocked off your first bill.

Gnomeking

Thanks for your help.