What you will have received is the first stage of a 'Rights of Entry'.

You shouldn't have actually ignored the letters, as that's why it's gotten to this stage, but I understand that you were told to do that.

The reason that this has more than likely been done is that either it's what's called a 'Vacant Supply', basically, no-one is named responsible for the meter and you need to register your details. The other possibility is that you've been billed to estimated readings. Did you check any of the bills to see if this is the reason?

AnnieCov:

... I spoke to our estate manage (Coventry City Council) and he said just to ignore them...

...today a threatening letter came. ...

...I spoke to them once last year and they told me I had to pay....

... I said... they could take the meter out. They said that would cost over £300, so I laughed and left it at that.

I fully understand your concerns about the behaviour you describe . But neither is it Coventry City Council's job to tell you to ignore the matter. I don't mean to disbelieve you, but "can you prove" what CCC told you? Think about it.

Dealing with matters on the phone is fine if it works. As soon as it stops working you need to shift to written correspondence sent by Signed For delivery setting out your concerns. You need to scrutinise the NPower bills to see *exactly* what they are billing you for and over what period. Although I cannot exclude responsibility for an "availability charge" you are not responsible in any way for previous tenants. If you think NPower are wrong, make a formal written complaint. Insist on, I mean demand, a written response.

Regarding the gas meter, I would expect your lease or tenancy agreement with CCC will set out the tenant's position. I would be very surprised if it authorised you to instruct the removal of the meter. It's *possible* the availability of a gas supply is a feature of the premises. You should scrutinise your tenancy agreement and simultaneously write to CCC to ask them to confirm in writing who is responsible any availability charge for a gas supply at the unit. Make sure their answer corresponds with the terms of the tenancy agreement.

Hi

My business moved into a council owned, small industrial unit a year ago. I set up our electric with EON and am happy with that. We don't need or use gas.

There is a capped off gas meter outside and Npower keep sending us bills for it. Not addressed to me or my company personally just to the unit number. I spoke to our estate manage (Coventry City Council) and he said just to ignore them. However, today a threatening letter came. This time threatening to cut off the gas (which is already cut off) and legal action, bailiffs, etc.

I spoke to them once last year and they told me I had to pay. I said I didn't need or want gas, they could take the meter out. They said that would cost over £300, so I laughed and left it at that.

I have no contract with Npower and there is no gas supply. I can't see how I can be liable for paying them anything.

Any insight would be welcome.

Annie