Make Sure Old And New Supplier Use Same Reading!!

mindthecash

I recently changed from Scottish Power to Scottish Hydro Electric but made a mistake with final reading. I corrected the error with my new supplier and they informed scottish Power of the correct reading (twice). However, Scottish Power ignored the new reading as it was within 250 units of their estimated reading which means I was expected to pay for the same electricity twice! They told me that all of the utility companies have an agreement not to change meter readings if the new one is within 250 units of the original reading.This can mean that consumers are paying for the same fuel twice up to approx £25 (at the rate in use at the time of my final bill). I asked to speak to someone in higher authority during my second call to Scottish Power (They denied receiving the new reading the first time I rang). I was given the option of having the reading changed and getting a refund, a big decision to make I can tell you! I finally received a refund in excess of £15 this morning.
I think the agreement they spoke of was misinterpreted by someone at Scottish Power as it would make sense as long as both companies use the same reading. Fortunately I always check my bills but lots of people may not have checked theirs.

mute_posting

On a similar thread, if you are a multi-rate customer (i.e. E7 / E10 / Heatwise etc) make sure old and new supplier have all readings attributed to the right units at point of account closure/opening.

MP