haven't paid water for 4 years

samsmoot

~Chameleon~ wrote: »

Well, that's not strictly true is because if/when they get caught they will be taken to court for outstanding debt and end up with a CCJ filed against them. And trust me, the water authorities are quite robust in chasing debts.

If the OP had been honest from the start he/she could have got help with this. There are charities who will help those who can't afford to pay their utility bills.

Charities will not always help, plus liability will be admitted if the OP asks for their assistance.


Some water companies are actually hopeless in chasing debts (South Staffs for one).


And like you say, it's an 'if' as far as enforcement is concerned, and it will amount to many 'ifs' along the way - if she is identified; if they won't accept payment of arrears at around £3 per week; if the charity won't help; if the water company refuses arbitration; if they don't mess up the claim etc etc.


Plus maybe the OP doesn't care about a judgement against them. Or they may later be in a position to pay.


As I indicated the OP is in the clear for now, with absolutely nothing to worry about- unless they get a bill in their name. That can be dealt with if it happens.

Gothicfairy

johnsmith56255 wrote: »

If you are a domestic (non-business customer), water companies can't, by law, disconnect or restrict your water supply if you owe them money. Simples :rotfl:

That is true but they can apply to the courts for a CCJ so each to their own I guess..
I would rather pay my bills but that is just me and the way I was raised

Gothicfairy

I struggle to pay my bills and feed myself but that is my responsibility and I was raised to take care of myself.
Changing supplier is not the be all and end all as gas and electric is almost a monopoly given that they all rise their prices at the same time and hide behind tariffs that people struggle to understand.
It is true that you will not be cut off but that doesn't mean they can't chase for debt an damage your future credit prospects.
Water is often the cheaper bill and can be set up through payment plans and there is watersure for people in debt.
So I think advising people of those options might be better then just suggesting not paying.
But as I said I only speak for myself and what others do is down to them.

samsmoot

johnsmith56255 wrote: »

If you are a domestic (non-business customer), water companies can't, by law, disconnect or restrict your water supply if you owe them money. Simples :rotfl:

Thanks johnsmith - always worth pointing that out.