Brtitish gas bill....£20 for disconnection?

Question

How do I stand, legally.
I was cold-called at home, by a British Gas rep, who promised great savings. I changed my supplier
After checking out all the promises, it was going to cost me more to be with BG than my previous supplier. I cancelled BG and went back to my other supplier. I was with BG for 41 days, apparently (I am sure it ws less, but probably time taken to make the changeover pushed it up to 41)
BG are charging me for energy used (fair enough), but are also adding a £20 disconnection charge on top. Since this was not mentioned by their doorstep representative, can I refuse to pay this charge?

Answer 1

Yeah,as the other person said, you'll have to read the small print. However a point in your favour is that you can simply state that if their representative had not mislead you, you wouldn't have changed over in the first place. British Gas aren't exactly smelling of roses these days and I think if push comes to shove, they will eventually back down after going through the motions of threatening you with legal action.

Should they do this, ask them to confirm in writing that they honestly believe that their rep did not mislead you. They will probably be glad to do this...and this will be the evidence that will nail them in court!

You simply say that if this is the case, why would I voluntarily change to a dearer supplier?

If they won't confirm that their rep didn't mislead you, what are they trying to hide?

Heads you win, tails you win!

Answer 2

They are entitled tocharge you a disconnection fee if you don't give then the notice in thier T&C's..Often 14 days.

Electricity suppliers do this as well

Answer 3

read the contract if you were given one. i used to be with british gas and they never charged me for changing but gave me £54

Answer 4

Have a look at the paperwork you signed, if it is not in that, then refuse to pay it.

Answer 5

read the small print.If it isn't in there then seek legal advice.