Southern Water extorting by DD

kphunter

Our water bill went up to £799 this year, and even though the account was already more than £500 in credit, they decided to increase the direct debit.

I queried this - by the time we have paid the year's direct debits, together with the amount already in credit, we will have overpaid the bill by more than £700. I asked them to reduce the DD so that it would cover the amount of the bill - they refused and said it's not possible!

The only way to pay this year's bill and no more was to cancel the DD and pay the bill twice a year, which I have done.

I asked for this sharp practice to be raised as a complaint, I've had no reply of course.

flaneurs_lobster

Is there any financial advantage to you for paying by DD like a discount or a period of free credit?

If not then just pay on demand as you have decided to do.

Not seeing "extortion" or "sharp practice", just a convenient way of paying a bill that you've decided not to use.

Your complaint will fail.

fatbelly

I pay by standing order and so I stay in control. I'll reconsider that if they ever offer an incentive to pay some other way. There are times in the cycle when I am in debit and get angry threatening letters. They go in recycling.

kphunter

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82050443#Comment_82050443

None. Just the "privilege" of paying for almost a year's bill in advance.

GrubbyGirl_2

Why not simply ask them to refund your credit?