Never Received a Gas Bill? Here’s What You Need to Know
This might surprise you, but many people find themselves using gas without ever having received a bill, and often feel embarrassed or confused about it. If that’s you, you’re not alone. It’s more common than you’d think, and the important thing is to deal with it the right way.
What Could Be Going On?
There are two main possibilities:
1. Shipperless Supply
Your gas meter is working and gas is being used, but there’s no active gas supplier (also called a “shipper”) registered for your meter. This can happen due to:
- Admin errors
- Supplier contract changes
- Long-term vacancies
2. Orphaned Supply
This is when a meter or supply point has never been registered with a supplier. This is often the case with new builds or forgotten installations.
Key Difference:
- Shipperless = gas is being used without a supplier
- Orphaned = the supply point is unclaimed and unused
Is This Legal?
Under UK law, using gas without a contract is technically unlawful, but:
- The last registered shipper is still liable for the gas costs, not the customer.
- Because there’s no contract, they cannot legally bill you for that usage.
- The gas transporter (the network operator) could theoretically bill you or cut off the supply if no contract is put in place.
If You’re a Microbusiness, You Have Extra Protection
You are a microbusiness if you meet one of the following:
- Fewer than 10 employees
- Less than £2 million annual turnover
- Less than 293,000 kWh of gas per year
Your rights include:
- Suppliers can’t charge you for usage over 12 months old if you didn’t get an accurate bill.
- This rule doesn’t always apply to transporter charges, but in practice they typically only pursue charges from the past year.
Larger businesses don’t get this protection and must rely on contract terms and negotiation.
What Should You Do If This Applies to You?
1. Check Your Meter
- Find the Meter Point Reference Number (MPRN) which is often printed on the meter or previous bills.
- Use the Find My Supplier tool to see if a supplier is listed.
2. Contact a Gas Supplier
- If no supplier is found, contact any licensed gas supplier and explain the situation.
- They can help register the meter and set up a contract.
- Provide a current meter reading and request a usage calculation.
3. Notify the Gas Distribution Network (GDN)
- If the supplier can’t find your meter details, contact your local GDN (e.g., Cadent, SGN, NGN, WWU).
- They’ll investigate and can help set up a proper supply or isolate the meter.
4. Check for Safety
- Ensure the meter looks safe and intact.
- If you smell gas or suspect tampering, call 0800 111 999 immediately.
5. Clarify Any Charges
- Ask for a detailed breakdown of any back charges.
- If you’re a microbusiness, you can dispute charges for usage over 12 months old.
6. Keep Records
- Take photos of your meter
- Log all communication
- Save copies of any bills or letters
Need Help?
This situation can be complex and stressful. At Here’s The Plan, we specialise in helping customers through issues like this. Get in touch for expert advice:
☎️ 01738 474630
✉️theteam@herestheplan.co.uk
