£3200 backdated water bill... help!!!

[JU123]

Hi, really hoping someone can help!!

 

I moved into a rented property (above address) in aug 2007. All other rented properties I have lived in have had water rates included in in the rent so when I never received any correspondance whatsoever form Thames Water I assumed that this was also the case in my new property (an assumption I probably shouldn't have made). It wasn't until November 2008 that I first received a backdated bill to the occupier. The bill was for £74.42 (which seemed low) and stated aug 2007 to oct 2008. I paid this bill after re-reading my tenancy agreement and realising that water was infact not included. I have now received a new bill, for the same period for £3200! I immediately investigated my entire property to see if there was I leak. I can't find anything but did notice that water looks like it runs slowly down the back of the tiolets (3 toilets). Could this be the reason for high bill? If I had ever received an earlier bill in 2007/2008 then I would've instantly realised that there was an issue with the water supply in my house. As there was no bill there wasn't really any way I would've noticed unless I was looking really hard. What are my rights in this situation? Shuld the landlord have tested for leaks before we moved in the property, or should the water company have billed me earlier so that the problem could've been identified? As the tennant, will I be expected to pay this full amount? Really not sure where I stand.

[MrShed]

First things first, you simply need to speak to the water company and ask them to double check the reading and calculation. Everything else is conjecture. Such a bill would indicate at least 10 years of non payment, or a serious leak - which you would have noticed. Therefore I suspect it is a simple billing issue.

 

contact the water company in the first instance.

[Happyfeet24]

Hi,

 

I don't know if my thread is of any help to you? It's a similiar situation and I've had some great advice.

 

£2172.00 water bill! Help?