What gives an electric/gas company the authority to overcharge a costumer when they misread the meter?

Question

There was a recent article in which a household was charged more than $1000 for their gas bill, whose monthly gas bill average about $60. Upon further investigation by the news they discovered that the gas company (centerpoint energy) was reading their meter wrong for the past 10 months. In light of this fact center point fails to acknowledge their neglect, and unfortunately, this particular household still has to pay the bill. Why is this the case?

Answer 1

If its a meter it will correct itself reading 2 less reading 1 is the usage, they will catch it in the next reading (3-2.)

Answer 2

The household used the gas they must pay for it.  It doesn't matter the gas company misread the meter.

The household didn't complain when they were paying only $60.  

The household obviously don't know how to read their gas meter or gas bill or they would of known 10 months before it

was wrong.

The household was not overcharged they were undercharged for 10 months . They owe the gas company

Answer 3

A complaint should be made to the PUC (Public Utility Commission) about this company.  Utility companies hate it when customers file a complaint with the PUC.  If they misread the meter, they should refund any overcharges.  You could also check with the state attorney general.  The customer that was affected needs to take their own action if they haven't.  They can't just wait around for the utility company to do something.

Answer 4

Lack of competition.  I hate all utility companys.