Many people can get into fuel debt with their supplier and this may arise in a number of ways. The most common are:
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estimated meter reading which are too low
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weekly or monthly payments which are too low
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living in a home which loses a lot of heat and is therefore expensive to run.
However if a bill seems too high make sure you check the following:
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Check
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Why?
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Name, address and dates
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It may not be your bill but actually from a previous tenant or occupier.
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Compare your meter readings against the bill. There may be mistakes or estimations (look for an E against the reading).
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Does the amount of units you have been charged for reflect what you have actually used?
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The company issuing the bill
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In some cases two different fuel suppliers can both think they are supplying the same address. You are only required to pay one, your supplier. They should sort out this situation out on you behalf.
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If you are already in debt
If you have already run up a large debt, first of all talk to your supplier. Try to be realistic about what you can afford to pay back and how regularly you wish to make payments. Remember you still have to pay for the fuel you are using at the moment.
The most common debt repayment methods are:
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paying an extra set amount on top of your regular payments. The amount can be negotiated with your supplier.
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if you are on Income Support, consider fuel direct.
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a prepayment meter. Many suppliers are keen to fit these as it guarantees them repayment. However they are the most expensive method of paying for your fuel, have a risk of self-disconnection and the inconvenience of having to purchase cards.
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paying debts by a lump sum payment.