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I called and reported a bereavement at my dad’s property in June. Spoke to a lovely lady who refunded incorrect charges and assured me no further standing charges will be made as long as no energy is used/No one is at the property.

Today I received a bill, logged in and see not only standing charges billed every month since June, but estimated usage too (despite speaking to the bereavement team)

Called again today, spoke to Michael, who said I will received standing charges, but no usage costs, and to ignore it all until the property is sold!

So, who is correct? the original lady I spoke to or Michael?

Should the property still be incurring monthly standing charges for both Gas and Electricity?

 

Appreciate any advise received - Thanks

I am also dealing with the bills for my late mother in law’s property, she was with British Gas. They have put the account in the name “The Estate of ….” and until the property is sold we are responsible for paying the standing charge, also as a requirement for the insurance we have to keep the heating on at a low temperature to prevent frozen pipes, or we would have had to have the system drained. Consequently we also pay for the energy used. As it’s much lower than previously I’m sending regular meter readings.


Updated on 08/07/25 by Abby_OVO​​​​​​

 

Hey ​@Jane Clark 

I’m really sorry for your loss. 

Standing charges occur even when there is no usage at a property as long there are still meters there. 

 

We appreciate that calling us might not be something you want to do right now so instead, you can contact our dedicated team directly via webchat, or send an email to bereavement@ovoenergy.com.

 

If you would like to speak with one of the team on the phone, you can call 0330 175 9683 Monday - Friday from 9am to 5pm.

 

There’s also independent advice available:

 

For free, independent advice on dealing with the energy account of someone who passed away, you might also want to contact these organisations:


I understand this must be a difficult time & If you have any further questions please pop back.

 


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