Scottish Power sending final bill 15 months after account closure - help please

MTMatt

Hi,

I switched from Scottish Power to Bulb back in September 2018.
At the time this took place, I received final bills from Scottish Power for both Electricity and Gas, one said no payment required, and the other was in credit (for which I think I remember receiving a cheque).

Now, 15 months later, I have suddenly been sent some new final bills for both services from Scottish power, demanding payment. Having looked online, and seeing mention regarding backbilling, I understand that I shouldn't be charged for billing from over 12 months old, does the same apply here? I did contact Scottish Power when I received the first one, as I was actually going to complain that they still had my personal data on record when I believed that the account was closed.

Having had a live chat regarding the gas bill (the electricity demand was only received today), they told me I would need to contact my new supplier to get confirmation of the readings that they had at the start (I cannot see this online). I did ask the person to confirm that if this was provided, that I would not be requested further charge, which that person said would be fine, but from earlier email conversations other people had not suggested the same.

Can anyone advise suggestions on how to deal with this, this has caused a great deal of stress, particularly with some of the responses received initially from Scottish Power.

Swipe

Look at the meter readings on the final bills and compare with those on the Bulb Opening bill and make sure they match. If it's no longer visible online ask Bulb to email you your opening bill or confirm the opening readings.


Always download copies of your bills from now on so any such problems can be rectified.

Cardew

Welcome to the forum.



The 12 month back-billing provision does not apply. It only applies when no bill has been sent and the company are at fault.


Assuming the final bills are now correct, even if an error had been made,they have 6 years to recover the money.



Write to SP and get a full bill explaining the demand, and as suggested above get the opening reading from Bulb.


Get it sorted or it could affect your credit record.

MTMatt

Thanks for both of your replies, I have contacted Bulb and asked them to confirm the readings that they would have provided.
I think I was just shocked that, having already had final bills, that over a year later they could still send one from nowhere - not sure the reason of this (I've asked Bulb if they know why).

Thanks again.