LCS Debt Collectors chasing for a Scottish Power debt that isn't mine

JayPeeEss

I've been renting my current property since March 2023.

Last week I received a letter from LCS demanding payment for an outstanding dual fuel account they've purchased from Scottish Power for 7 weeks between Jan and Mar 2022.

The letter is addressed to me.

I notified Scottish Power when I moved in here, and had an account with them for a few weeks which was settled when I switched supplier the following month.

Included with the demand is a letter from First Locate (who look to be part of LCS, both letters signed by Rebecca Carter) which stated that -

Scottish Power has been the utility supplier for the address. Although they have continued to supply the property, no-one has taken responsibility as the bill-payer for the outstanding balance. Accordingly we are writing to you as, through our investigation, we have identified you as having an interest in the above property.

I did ring LCS last week when the letter arrived and they told me they wanted to see my tenancy agreement to prove the debt isn't mine, which I refused to do. They also asked who the landlord was, details of anyone I knew that had lived here previously and so on.

Any advice on best way to deal with this - I would normally ignore it as a fishing expedition but as it's addressed to me that isn't really an option I don't think.

Also how do I go after Scottish Power as they've passed on my details knowing full well I'm not responsible for this debt.

Thanks for your help.

fatbelly

LCS have form going back decades on this. Somewhere there is a huge thread on them with details on making a complaint, with the aim of getting their license revoked. I believe the old OFT sent them a warning but here we are in2024 and they are still at it.

First Locate are the parent body of LCS

Tell them it's not your debt. 

I'll find that other thread if no-one else does

MP1995

I woukd suggest a letter from your landlord/letting agent to confirm when you took residence would also be good for your personal file so you can produce that if required,

JayPeeEss

Have called them again, given them details of the Estate Agent who I've rented the house through, and the date I took on the tenancy.

They've advised me I won't hear from them again !

We shall see.

Thanks for the responses, much appreciated.