New Tenant HELP!

MeteredOut

Since the previous occupant is not responding, I wonder if they never paid anyone for the electricity. Just something to consider before contacting the property company... 

But, are you saying your contract says nothing about who pays for electricity used?

Good that you've got an opening meter reading though.

Katifer_5

In the contract it says I will arrange payment of all the utilities myself… if it does transpire previous tenant never paid, it’ll be the landlords issue not mine! Mind you, I’ll happily not pay too  don’t think I’ll get that lucky though! I’d rather be honest than get found out and sent to prison! 

Netexporter

Do be aware that if your are metered off the landlords supply, for common area lighting etc, that will be a commercial, rather than domestic, supply. They are generally more expensive than domestic supplies. Landlords aren't allowed to make a profit from these arrangements (usually in park home situations) but they are allowed to charge a reasonable amount to cover their administration. Less long-windedly, it may cost a lot more than you are used to paying. Probably best to find out soonest, so you can make your escape plan, should it be ruinous.

born_again

Have you spoken to the other tenant to find out what they have been doing?

Scot_39

Katifer_5 said:

In the contract it says I will arrange payment of all the utilities myself… if it does transpire previous tenant never paid, it’ll be the landlords issue not mine! Mind you, I’ll happily not pay too  don’t think I’ll get that lucky though! I’d rather be honest than get found out and sent to prison! 

Then you will be in breach of your tennancy if dont pay.

The consequences of which could be serious.

Katifer_5

Found out it was indeed a sub-meter. Property management pay my bills and invoice me quarterly. Not what it said in tenancy agreement at all 🙄 I wasn’t best pleased as it does work out more expensive, as someone else has said, probably to cover their admin fees!!

cannugec5

Katifer_5 said:

Found out it was indeed a sub-meter. Property management pay my bills and invoice me quarterly. Not what it said in tenancy agreement at all 🙄 I wasn’t best pleased as it does work out more expensive, as someone else has said, probably to cover their admin fees!!

I hope you will bring this up with the landlord/agency. It’s not fair if your tenancy agreement is incorrect. They need to sort that out so that you have access to cheaper deals, just as you anticipated when you signed the agreement.