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The reading shown by BG was not an estimate; it purported to be a final reading. Bill was over �300, so as I'm not trying to evade paying a just amount I sent �150 pending clarification.
In view of the endless prevarications by 3 different staff who refused to tell me what the cancellation fee was for going elsewhere I eventually became exasperated and mentioned 'Regulator'. Quick as a flash came the answer. �20.
I related this in my letter to BG, among other complaints of shortcomings and told them that unless all queries were answered I'll not hesitate to involve the Regulator.
I don't normally approve of threatening but have been much provoked including trying to phone in my readings - which eventually were sent in by post.
If I have to, I'll delve into bills from my previous provider and try to calculate usage for previous years and settle the bill on that basis - if I can understand the formluae used in BGs complex calculations.