Estimated vs Actual Meter Reading - New home huge discrepancy!

mac.d

I think Gerry1 makes a good point in theory, it would be good if there was some trigger that would send out info on what to do for a new tenant. However as you rightly point out, if people just move out without closing their account, the suppliers have no way of knowing (unless a new tenant moves in and informs them). You can bet it happens a lot and the only tool they have is estimates which are usually based on historic usage in the house. 

It's really the landlords that should held accountable for this as they are more likely to know if a tenant has moved out, and they should be taking notes of the readings, as they'd be liable for the period when no one is occupying the house.

Gerry1

Presumably in most cases the person moving out will have cancelled their direct debit, so that's a big clue.  The supplier should send a email or letter warning that they are now on a more expensive tariff, and asking them to confirm that they are still in residence.  Failure to respond should trigger a letter sent to the named person 'or Current Occupier' asking them to provide registration details together with a meter reading.

It's all very well saying that newcomers must take responsibility, but for students and first time buyers unfamiliar with the complexities of the system the process may be obvious only with the benefit of hindsight.  They should not be penalised by almost £300 because of their lack of experience and knowledge in this area and for the failures (possibly deliberate) of the previous occupier to send readings and give notice of quitting.

As for being clairvoyant, that's what the mysterious third party certainly seems to be.  They can dream up a figure they like, regardless of photographic or smart meter evidence !

tim_p

Surely, in the case of rental properties it’s the Landlord that must hold the key to this. They are the only person who would be aware of the change of tenancy and are also the one to suffer any grief from a subsequent tenant, plus they are liable (technically!) between tenancies. It must be in their interest to ensure a clean exit and entry for both sides.  You’d think! 

So tenant moves out, landlord confirms meter reading with tenant.
New tenant arrives, LL confirms reading.  

I guess they (the LL) take the view that it’s easier to let the tenant bear the brunt of any hassle over disputed energy consumption than it is for them to deal with the usage during that changeover period. 

mac.d

I think you've got it spot on tim_p. Especially when you consider all the properties that have a bit of a turnover of tenants, they'll be the type to move out without letting the landlord know (probably owe rent), and won't be interested in sorting out their electric bill, easier just to move out and let the next tenant deal with the debt letters.