Have you ever heard of this? And what can be done about it?

Question

Okay I know this is going to sound weird, but today I got a letter in the mail from a propane company saying that I am 30 days past due on payment for them removing their propane tank off of my property. It took them just about two months to remove the tank. Now this wouldn't be a problem except for the fact that this tank was on the property when we bought our house. We did not sign any contracts saying that we would keep the tank for any said amount of time. When I tried to switch over the name on the account it didn't happen, I tried changing it about seven times the last time they finally did, but wanted payment for propane the day it was ordered when the propane would arrive up to a month later so I told them to get their tank we were finding a new company. Now my question is do they have a right to bill me if I never ordered propane and I did not sign a contract that agreed to any length of time for us to keep it? Is there anything that I can do aside from getting a lawyer?

Also I live in Michigan if that helps any.

I didn't sign anything though. Verbal or not, there should have been a new contract established because I am in no way related to the previous owner. We didn't even get a first bill otherwise this would have been addressed then instead of when it's 'past due'

Answer 1

For a definite answer consult an attorney. If you don't have the $ then Legal Aid. If you are like me, a do it yourself-er at everything: First reread your escrow and home sale papers, see if there is any kind of disclosure or mention of this. If there is no mention, ask your real estate agent. If still no info how about a strongly worded letter alleging that the company is attempting to defraud you and threatening to go to the media and any appropriate regulatory agencies. You might also throw in a bill for the storage of their tank on your property.

If all else fails sue them for the amount of the bill and more in small claims court. Be more of a pain in the A S S then the bill is worth.

GOOD LUCK

Answer 2

This probably should have been resolved when the sale of the house took place, leased fixtures are supposed to be addressed, at least in most states. They *could* argue some kind of theft of service, since you presumably used their services (unless you can show that you used NO propane from the time you bought the house until now). However, I am not sure they can do much without bringing you to court, and it is their fault for not doing it right and getting a new contract in your name. I think they'll probably have a hard time with it, they'll likely send it to collections and you can dispute it there, but it may eff up your credit in the meantime.

Answer 3

Tell them you never authorized them to put their tank on your property and see where it goes. You did not have a contract with them from what you say so they had no right to leave a tank on your property. Actually after 30 days they had no right to remove it either, 30 days after being notified that the ownership of the property had changed that is.

Answer 4

Your mistake was assuming the contract by having it transferred to your name. You would have been fine just telling them you bought the property and didn't want the service, but once you had your name put on the contract, you assumed the responsibilities it contained. So yes, they may now be able to come after you for the costs, depending on what the contract you signed says.

Answer 5

i think that is the stupidest thing ive heard today you didnt make an aggrement or a contract and you dont even want the thing why the hell should you be billed and yes you can hire a lawyer for just about any problem you have if you have money and a problem the lawyer will do what ever he can to fix the problem also you answered one of my question earlier you sounded like you knew what you were talking about i have more questions for you specifically would you please call 1860 238 7206 ask for darren thank you very much