Where do I stand with paying a gas bill that was charged for 14 months, with no other bill sent to me?

Question

I registered with British Gas in May 2007, and have only just received my first estimated bill 14 months later for over £1000. Noone has ever been round to read a meter and I have never received a bill until now. They expect me to pay for over a years supply of electricity now. I did my job of registering, surely I must have some rights as they have never been to my property to read the meter or sent me any bills whatsoever. Where do I stand on this?

Answer 1

Its quite possible that they are reading your meters without your knowledge. The simple question is, did you use the electricity? If you did, then you're responsible for paying for it. I would call them and let them know your situation. My guess is they will be sympathetic with any late charges you may have incurred since it was partially their error, and they may let you pay it in installments, but I highly doubt they're going to let you have a years worth of free electricity.