New tennant energy supplier

glcmy

I'm about to move into a property in the next couple of weeks.

The previous tennant has left a month ago.

When I went to get the electricity account set up with me and my partner they said our direct debit would be £140 for a 2 bed top floor flat! We stupidly said yeah set it up for 1st August to go out.

We then had a discussion with family who said that they are in 3/4 bed houses and dont pay anywhere near that for their electricity, me and my partner both work during the day so will only get home after 6-8pm.

We called the provider who were basically saying whatever happens we have to pay £140. And if we switch out its £30.

I contacted Octopus energy to switch to them as the comparison websites said it would be an estimate of £38 a month (obviously I'm not stupid I know this will go up and down depending on usage per month). They basically told me straight; the previous tennant switched out and didnt settle their final bill. They're disputing with the other provider as they said the final meter readings were significantly different. I've sorted it out now so that even though the previous tenants account is still open it's not linked to me/the property but its separate now even though the dispute is still open.

The switch is going to happen around 2nd or 3rd August...

I dont know what the deal is with the current provider... do I have to pay this £140 bill? Isnt there such thing as a 14 day cooling off period?

My head is up the wall I just need some advice :eek:

D_M_E

What you should have done is read the meters as soon as you move in THEN call the existing supplier and give them the readings and ask for an account.

You would then be free to switch to whoever you like.

You need to call them and cancel the arrangements you made as you are not yet responsible for paying energy bills and start again when you move in.

Also make sure they have not already set up a DD with your bank - if they have, cancel it.

Don't forget to also read the water meter when you move in and tell the local water company the reading and that you are the occupier from your movein date.

Norman_Castle

https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/sites/default/files/docs/2014/10/cooling_off_background_paper.pdf


The 14 day cooling off period starts from when you agree to be supplied. Have you asked the supplier if you are within the 14 days?

When I went to get the electricity account set up with me and my partner they said our direct debit would be £140 for a 2 bed top floor flat! We stupidly said yeah set it up for 1st August to go out.

We then had a discussion with family who said that they are in 3/4 bed houses and dont pay anywhere near that for their electricity, me and my partner both work during the day so will only get home after 6-8pm.

The £140 isn't the bill. Its a guesstimate monthly amount which should cover the bill. If you do pay it every month it will be adjusted over time to suit actual usage. Over payments will be returned to you.