My fixed term energy contract ends later this month & I have initiated a
switch.
The existing supplier has not supplied a bill in the 11 months I have been with
them but it is a relatively simple fixed rate tariff & so I am confident
that my own spreadsheet calculates what I owe.
In fact I calculate that I am currently slightly in credit but by
switchover date I will owe about £10. Coincidentally my DD for £60 will
probably go out the day before the switch - so they will then owe me £50.
Unfortunately the company seems to have a terrible reputation for getting
round to refunding credits. It seems their computers systems are in a
mess.
I have considered cancelling the final DD and settling the outstanding
£10 separately - but I understand that this might give them grounds to
halt the switch (if they notice in time).
So I am considering speaking to them before the switch and making it
clear that I am only authorising them to take such an amount as is
necessary to clear the account. If they then take £60 & don't refund the
over-payment promptly would I then by justified in claiming that the
final £60 was not taken in accordance with my instructions & re-claiming
it via the DD guarantee?