Random letter from BCW

FutureGirl

I received a letter from Buchanan Clark and Wells saying that I owe their client British Gas (Service and Repair) £50.00.

The letter says that despite numerous attempts I haven't paid it - but this is the first I have heard of it. Letter also says they are now passing it back to their client, British Gas.

I called British Gas, as I was with them last year for my gas/electric. They advised that there is no debt on my gas or electric account. The lady on the phone said that the Service & Repair part makes her think that this is to do with one of those HomeCare products (boiler cover etc). However, I rent and would never buy such a product as I don't need it, plus my landlord already has similar cover with another provider.

The letter also says Mrs Smith, I am Miss Smith and British Gas have always had me as Miss (Smith isn't my surname btw). My address is 12 ABC, XYZ Road. But the letter is just addressed to ABC, XYZ road. So it is likely that if they have been sending letters I haven't received them, as they have only put the name of the 'block' and not my door number.

I am unsure what the best course of action is with this, can anyone assist on what I should do? I mean, should I leave it, or should I contact Buchanan Clark and Wells?

Thanks in advance!

fermi

Sounds like someone else's debt mistraced to you by the notoriously incompetent BC&W.

If they are returning it to BG then perhaps nothing much to be bothered with, but you may need to take it further if you get any other letters.

FutureGirl

OK. If I get any further letters, should I call BC&W?

fermi

Up to you, bsually better to write/email

Letter when you know nothing about about the debt - AKA "Prove it" letter

so you have proof and a record, and because like most DCAs they frequently tell porky pies on the phone, which they won't dare try with written communications.

sourcrates

You have to remember that the majority of DCA's are incompitant.

Debts are sold on with very little info sometimes, so they letter bomb a particular area hoping to get a hit.
Mis-trace of a debtor is quite common, and the letters they send are designed to get a reaction out of you, so you contact them.

Often there case tends to fall apart on closer inspection.