Do You Have to Pay an Incorrect Back Bill? Know Your Rights
Receiving a sudden energy bill for hundreds, or even thousands, of pounds can be alarming.
If your energy supplier has issued a back bill for usage from months, or even years, ago, you might be asking: Do I really have to pay this? The answer depends on your situation.
Ofgem’s back billing rules may protect you from charges for energy used more than 12 months ago, especially if you have not previously received an accurate bill or been properly notified of the charges.
At Energy Solicitors, we help consumers and businesses challenge unfair energy charges, including incorrect back billing. Here’s everything you need to know.
What Is Back Billing?
Back billing, also known as a “catch-up bill”, happens when your energy supplier believes you have used energy that hasn’t been accurately billed. This can occur due to:
- Estimated meter readings
- Faulty or unread meters
- Supplier errors or system failures
- Incorrect direct debit amounts
The supplier then recalculates your usage and sends a bill for the shortfall, sometimes covering months or even years of energy.
Ofgem’s Back Billing Rules
Under Ofgem regulations, suppliers cannot charge you for energy used more than 12 months ago if:
- You have asked for a bill and did not receive one
- You were not informed about the charges
- Your direct debit was set too low due to supplier error
These rules apply to domestic customers and microbusinesses and suppliers must include them in their contract terms.
Do You Have to Pay?
You do not have to pay a back bill for energy used more than 12 months ago if the supplier is at fault. However, you do have to pay for energy used within the last 12 months unless:
- The bill is based on incorrect meter readings
- You have already paid for the energy
- Your supplier failed to notify you properly
It is worth noting that if you have acted unreasonably, for example, by blocking access to your meter or ignoring requests for payment, these rules may not apply.
Why Am I Being Charged?
You may receive a back bill if:
- Your smart meter stopped sending readings
- Your supplier relied on estimates for too long
- You moved property and the account wasn’t closed properly
- A technical error delayed billing
In many cases, these issues are not your fault, and you may be entitled to a refund or reduction.
What Should You Do?
Follow our step-by-step guide:
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Check the date range on the bill: is it for energy used over 12 months ago?
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Review your previous bills and payments: have you already paid for this usage?
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Contact your supplier: ask for a breakdown and explain your concerns.
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Mention Ofgem’s back billing rules: suppliers must comply.
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Escalate to the Energy Ombudsman: if the issue isn’t resolved within 8 weeks.
How Energy Solicitors Can Help
Energy Solicitors offers legal support for:
- Challenging incorrect back bills
- Reviewing energy contracts and billing history
- Escalating disputes to the Energy Ombudsman
- Securing refunds and compensation
Whether you are a business, homeowner or tenant, we will help you understand your rights and fight unfair charges.
Contact Us
If you have received a back bill and aren’t sure what to do, contact Energy Solicitors today.
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