British Gas, still on debt rampage
People are constantly fighting British Gas over debt which has already been settled or for bills which have been incorrectly calculated and the problems look set to stay.
Although the bungling gas company promised to change its ways and make massive improvements to customer service, their words were spoken in vain. Especially by one couple who Britsh Gas believe need debt help.
A classic example of their ever faltering system can be found with Derek and Sheila Harris who were repeatedly harassed by British Gas to pay a debt which had already been settled.
The problems began last year when the couple moved into a house which received gas and electricity from Southern Electricity. Derek and Sheila were quite happy with the service that they provided. However, many weeks later, they received a letter from Southern Electricity telling them that their account had been closed and their gas and electricity would be supplied in future by British Gas.
The couple were furious about this as they had not given permission for British Gas to take over their energy supply. Derek Harris rang British Gas to complain but was told that it would take two months for their energy supply to retransferred back to Southern Electricity.
The Harris’ settled their eight week bill with British Gas and resumed business with Southern Electricity. But for nearly a year after their settlement, British Gas hounded them for the debt that they had already paid. The couple were inundated with over 30 letters threatening them with disconnection and court proceedings.
The Harris’ are determined to bring an end to this matter to clear the name for their personal finance, but worry that many elderly customers could feel very intimidated by this action and end up paying a debt which they have already settled.
Finance News posted on 15/10/2007 10:39:59
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