Debt - Utilities Companies
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Under this general heading are included all of the services available via cables and pipes connected to our houses, and which are paid in arrears so that we have an opportunity to go into debt. As with most debts, if you are having problems finding payments, it is important to contact the supply company quickly and explain the situation. Most of the utility companies will give you a lot of help, and are generally keen to come up with some scheme which will avoid legal action, such as payment of arrears over an extended period. Make sure however that you will be able to maintain the agreed payments - once such an arrangement is entered into, they will become much less co-operative if you subsequently renege on it, even by oversight. This is generally an area where the assistance of the local Citizens Advice Bureau should be sought if you are not confidant in your own ability to negotiate, and the supplier's knowledge that you have someone on your side will sometimes defer more drastic action. This is particularly the case if you are about to be disconnected, and you should contact the CAB as soon as you find that you are unlikely to be able to pay a utilities bill. |
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