Denied the right to choose payment method (Scottish Power)

Member Name: ali p

Product:	Scottish Power
Date:	08/01/09 (209 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: brill if you have spare money you want scottish power to look after for you

Disadvantages: really shirty customer service who always want the last word.

I had an outstanding bill and agreed to set up a direct debit option £169 per month reluctantly agreed. The bill was for £292. £25 outstanding on account and another direct debit in the offing. I decided to cancel my direct debit and pay the oustanding amount and return to quarterly billing after all they were requring over £500 from me per quarter when my bills were £250 ish. Before the next direct debit was due a letter was sent to me saying that i had not met my arrangement of £171 on the 15th . Well for one thing my payment wasn't for £171 nor was it even due on the 15th but the day after the letter was sent. I have spoken to an advisor about why my latest bill has not arrived yet. It was apparently sent along with a letter stating that because i had cancelled my direct debit i had defaulted on my account and had been placed onmonthly cash plan which incidently was more than direct debit. I said that i would like a copy of the bill sending as i would like to pay it in full and return to quarterly billing. My financial situation dictates that i have not got the £200 per quarter spare to sit in scottish power bank.
I apparently have not got that right anymore there is no going back. her words! And also if i failed to make the next payment due, regardless of the fact i owed nothing on the account, A warrant would be issued for recovery of the payment plan amount that they had decided on not me for fuel not used. I am baffled. I intend to move as soon as possible but fear it is easier said than done. Matter ongoing....

Summary: avoid at all costs