Whenever I move into a new (rented) property, I usually find the previous occupant has left without settling the gas/electric bill. If this is the case, continue using your gas and electric for as long as possible until you get some disconnection notice letters from the power company(s).
Then just go onto the company's website and register as a new user, saying you've just moved in a few days ago, give them a meter reading AND a false name, and opt to pay by quarterly cash. Depending on how long you intend on staying in your place you can get away with not paying at least the last 6 months of your bill, as this is how long it takes them to get to the point of cutting you off. If you're staying there a long time, give them really low estimated readings for your first few bills and pay them in cash at a bank or Post Office.
I've done this with Powergen/E.On and British Gas and always amazed at how easily you can register a new account using a false name, so when you do leave with an upaid bill, there's nothing in your name.
cheers! Glad to be of help. I tried this with BT as well, but unfortunately you have to setup a DD payment with them so you can't blag a fake name.
If you do have gas/electric in your name already and have racked up a hefty bill and looking to move out, then ask for a prepayment meter a couple of weeks before you move out, they have to give you this option by law if they're threatening to disconnect. Obviously you'll have to pay a little bit (mostly debt) while you're there but £20 odd quid is nothing compared to paying a few £100's. They will eventually try and chase you for it....if they can find you.
I have done this once with Council Tax as well. When the annual update letter came I just went online and ticked the 'no change' option. BUT this is the only one you can get 'done' for so use with care!
yeah, forgot about that! When the water bill came at the last place, just did exactly the same thing, gave them a fake name when setting up a new account. Eventually a debt collector came knocking and told him I'd just moved in, showed him my driver's license and said 'yeah the last guy doesn't seem to have paid any of his bills and it's pissing me off!'
Can't believe these companies let you get away with setting up accounts with fake names, but will take full advantage of it while they do. Can anyone list companies that you can sign up with using a fake name/don't need to setup a DD etc. The ones I know:
PowerGen/E.On
British Gas
Thames Water
United Utilities
Your local council!
LinkBack URL
About LinkBacks
Some Free Gas and Electric
