Switching Suppliers - Opening Readings

Legacy_user

Out-of-interest, when switching suppliers when do MSErs provide opening meter readings to their new supplier? Usually the request comes with an 11 day window. It follows that the most likely day for the switch is day 6.

I ask because my present supplier has consistently over assessed my past annual usage by up to 25%, and I would like to avoid any readings that I provide to the new supplier going into the ARD process.

To mitigate this risk, I have provided my present supplier with actual meter readings for the past 4 weeks (one a week), and I will provide both suppliers with actual meter readings on Day 6.

Any thoughts?

footyguy

Hengus wrote: »

Out-of-interest, when switching suppliers when do MSErs provide opening meter readings to their new supplier? Usually the request comes with an 11 day window. It follows that the most likely day for the switch is day 6.

I ask because my present supplier has consistently over assessed my past annual usage by up to 25%, and I would like to avoid any readings that I provide to the new supplier going into the ARD process.

To mitigate this risk, I have provided my present supplier with actual meter readings for the past 4 weeks (one a week), and I will provide both suppliers with actual meter readings on Day 6.

Any thoughts?

I supply them on the day of the switch to ensure accurate billing. You should be advised in advance what day this is. I always have been.

The window is only there should it not be possible (or convenient) to supply the meter reading on the day of the actual switch; this will result in an estimated reading being used.

JJ_Egan

I supply when they ask then once switched a couple more that month .Likewise at the end of a contract .

Hoof_Hearted

Well worth sending it to both suppliers. If it's Scottish Power consider adjusting your final reading to equal your credit as they are notorious for not giving the credit back. I would also stop the DD once the readings have been submitted. Better to owe them money.

[Deleted User]

If your old provider allows you to submit readings when ever you want, then submit readings to them before the switch day (or several times in the run up to the change of supplier) and then on the day you submit the current reading to your new supplier also submit the same one to your old supplier.

And if you have a smart phone, always take a picture of the meter showing the reading and the supply number as your phone will date the photo and it can be used in any future disputes.

System

gsmlnx wrote: »

If your old provider allows you to submit readings when ever you want, then submit readings to them before the switch day (or several times in the run up to the change of supplier) and then on the day you submit the current reading to your new supplier also submit the same one to your old supplier.

And if you have a smart phone, always take a picture of the meter showing the reading and the supply number as your phone will date the photo and it can be used in any future disputes.

The readings do not have to be the same as those that you have provided as the switch may be delayed (e.g.; a gas transfer with an IGT involved). The readings DO have to be the same on the closing bill as on the opening bill with the new supplier. The difference to the customer is usually pennies.

I am just trying to avoid an ARD which prolongs the final billing from my old supplier.