Winter gas bills on old estimates
Published on : 22/05/2007
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Close to 33 per cent of winter gas bills were based on outdated estimates, new research claims.
A report from a UK comparison site shows that despite the fact that gas prices reached record highs over the winter, suppliers still used old data to calculate their readings. Consumers should therefore make sure they notify their provider whenever they cut back on consumption to cope with rising prices.
The majority of suppliers do try to carry out frequent readings, but many people end up missing out on their visits because they are not at home during the day - but consumers could instead simply provide their supplier with a metre reading over the phone, should this be a problem.
"Domestic gas prices reached astonishing heights last winter.," Paul Schofield, head of utilities at the comparison site that carried out the research, said.
"Many households will have reduced gas usage to save money; either by turning the thermostat down a degree or two, reducing the time their heating is on or even putting on an extra jumper. But if you haven't had your meter read or provided a reading yourself, you won't see the savings you deserve."
