Flatmate ran up utility bill debt in his name then moved out

Ludlum6298

Hi everyone

Here is the problem, i moved in with my ex-flatmate in june '12 on a joint tenancy. He'd rented the property with two different flatmates in the previous two years in the same situation. I paid the bill money to him as did the others before me.

The utility bills, gas and electric, were registered to him and him alone for these 3 years, in which time he'd apparently ran up a 'significant amount of debt.My flatmate left the flat last week after he asked to end our renewed tenancy early to move in with his girlfriend, my landlord and myself agreed to this.

My friend now sublets the room from me after the landlord agreed, but the new tenancy agreement is solely with me as it was to speed up the switch.

My new flatmate was trying to change the utility bill into both of our names but was told he couldn't as he wasn't on the tenancy agreement and they informed him of the significant debt, didn't say the amount .

I was just wondering how I should approach this as they mentioned that anybody living in the property with my ex flatmate would be liable due to the joint tenancy, however they don't know I was a flatmate of his (could i switch suppliers with my new tenancy which shows a start date of last week? I'm guessing this might be illegal? )

My argument would be:
1. The contract was made with the electric company before I moved in and also never changed during my tenancy.

2. I was never made aware of any debt as any correspondence from them was only addressed to my ex-flatmate - however I did notice a prepay meter for gas last week in the cupboard on the flat staircase when looking for the readings to swap the account.

3. I already paid my share to him, he didn't pay them - I imagine this will be fobbed off as they don't care for our personal arrangements.

4. I have contacted my exflatmate and he has said he will clear the debt with his deposit from the flat - I have proof in the form of a text so doubt that will count for much.

5. The most I could me liable for is the bills themselves during my tenancy, and none of the additional charges for late payments etc due to point 2.

I was just hoping somebody could tell me, before i contact the utility company where I stand in a legal perspective in A. debt with the utility companies and B. With my flatmate for technically stealing from me, if I am made to pay the debt

I tried searching the forums but could only find posts relating to where both flatmates moved in and started the tenancy of the same day or where they never had a joint tenancy.
Thanks very much in advance

Alias_Omega

Previously..... Its the persons name on the bill responsibility, BG don't chase you because your parents owe cash..

Present Day...I would get a Pre-Payment Meter Installed...Only pay for what you use...