British Gas - Occupier bills

[Gertie100]

After now being in my new house for 7.5 months British Gas have finally decided to close my account as I decided to go to Swalec (who actually pick the phone up within 5 mins at any time of day...)
I have paid one other bill with them which was addressed to "the Occupier". When I rang BG to pay it I was advised to never pay bills which were addressed to "The Occupier" although it was not explained why.

This final bill (£210 - checked by meter and its right! bum...) but is addressed to the occupier...although they have my details because I rang them and paid the bill over the phone!?

Anyone know why you shouldn't pay the bill if it is to the occupier?
(OK so long winded for short question - just thought i'd give you some background...)

[ozzywizard]

You never pay these bills as they are not in your name and are probably billed for units before your occupancy there. See if you move out in example feb and the next person moves in april a bill goes out for March to the occupier. This bill is not enforcable.

[majorclanger100]

I've had a similar experience. We moved to our rented house in June 2006, and despite contacting good old BG immediately by phone (only waited 35 mins in queue) to notify them we've only ever received bills addressed to the (incorrect) name of the managing agent. There were also threats to disconnect the supply addressed to 'The Occupier'. We have regularly faxed BG and e-mailed them to get them to issue a correct bill, as has the managing agent.

I have now received a hefty bill in my name for the electricity supply from June 2006, some 7 months after we moved in, and suspect the gas bill will follow. Am I liable for it and do I have to pay it immediately as BG have asked?

We are also changing suppliers to EDF at the moment and I am worried that BG will block this saying we have a 'debt'.

[ozzywizard]

If the readings are correct and the bill is in your name then yes you will have to pay it. EDF will probably be blocked from change of supply if account is over 50 pounds in debt.

[Gertie100]

Still slightly confused about this - the debt is mine (well its paid now) for gas we have used since the last time we paid the occupier bill, it is BGs fault for not updating their system to show that I live in the house...
If I hadn't paid the bill would BG have been able to disconnect / take me to court?