Should I accept Ombudsman's ruling?

King_Weasel

footyguy wrote: »

...But I think what they are essentially saying is ignore all the intervening bills/statements with b/f & c/f balances.
Start at the beginning with the start readings (with the old supplier).
Then using the final redaings, calculate the consumption and cost in accordance with the agreed tariff.
Subtract monies paid.
The difference is what is owed (either way).

Your logic is of course correct. But I've no idea whether the Ombudsman means this ie a bill covering the whole period I've been with SP - he certainly hasn't said so, merely referring to "a final bill". To me it would be simpler to start with the point where the discrepancy in balances arose, since I accept all their earlier bills. But if the Ombudsman (and SP) want to take your interpretation, that's fine by me, so long as their ruling makes this clear.

footyguy

King_Weasel wrote: »

Your logic is of course correct. But I've no idea whether the Ombudsman means this ie a bill covering the whole period I've been with SP - he certainly hasn't said so, merely referring to "a final bill". To me it would be simpler to start with the point where the discrepancy in balances arose, since I accept all their earlier bills. But if the Ombudsman (and SP) want to take your interpretation, that's fine by me, so long as their ruling makes this clear.

Unless you are entirely happy with the proposed resolution, do not accept it.

I also find that such resolutions are often not 'tied down' enough, or miss out something. But yours appears rather an extreme example.

Remember. the essential role of the ombudsman is to assist you in attempting to resolve the complaint.

A quick chat to the case handler often does resolve matters such as this.
(assuming you are actually of like minds)

cing0

If you have evidence from your new supplier that they received your readings and what they were (i.e. a bill or email confirmation), I'd pursue your new supplier.
Its standard practice for the gaining supplier to be responsible for any failure in transfer readings so start a complaint with the new supplier.

Regarding SP chasing you for debt, they will threaten your for a couple of years using 2 debt collection agencies to bump up fees but won't take you to court, possibly credit blacklist you.

I'd probably reject the investigating officers report and ask for an ombudsmans final decision. This will take between 1 and 4 months so you may get the material evidence you need in the meantime between now and then.