Discovering the UK 2022

Utilities Utilities describe the services provided by the electric, gas and water. Your Dwellworks Consultant will be able to advise you regarding local providers in the area and assist you with utility setup. Gas and Electric Gas and electricity is billed based on usage as measured by meters. Your house or apartment will have its own meters which we will locate and show you when you move in. Bills are usually sent quarterly and may be based on “actual” or “estimated” readings (the bill will show which). An actual reading is one taken by the energy company’s representative in the previous few days. Most apartments have meters located in a publicly accessible place so you don’t have to be at home, but most houses have meters within the property so they can only take a reading if you’re in. If you receive an estimated bill you can have it re-issued with an accurate amount by taking your own reading and calling the company at the number shown on the bill. Have your customer number ready as most of these are automated. A revised bill is then sent for the correct amount. Dwellworks does not recommend setting up a fixed monthly direct debit account despite the small discount offered, as this is likely to result in the supplier overcharging and owing you money at the end of the tenancy, which can be difficult to recover. Water Water bills are usually a fixed amount, charged quarterly. Some houses do have a meter located outside which allows you to be billed based on usage. Do not attempt to change current arrangements in your rental property. Refuse and Recycling Domestic refuse and recycling collections are organised by the local council and paid for through council tax. Please contact the local council’s help desk to make enquiries.

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Discovering the U.K.