Question from a reader:
I fell behind on my electricity payments, and my service has been suspended. I can’t find the payment slip, and I plan to send a postcard later, but since I’ve canceled my service, I’m in a situation where I can’t reapply. I can’t make the payment immediately, but I’m in a lot of trouble, so I applied
to a company that can restore service today. If I have outstanding payments with my original company, is there a possibility that my application will be rejected?

Legal Perspectives on Electricity Payment Delinquency and New Applications

Recently, I heard a story from a friend. He accidentally forgot to pay his electricity bill and ended up having his service suspended. At first, he thought, “Well, it should be fine,” but before he knew it, he had canceled his service and was trying to apply to a new electricity provider. However, the problem he faces is that if there are outstanding payments with the original company, there is a high possibility that his new application will be rejected. Through this story, I would like to delve into the legal perspectives surrounding electricity payment delinquency.

Impacts of Electricity Payment Delinquency

First, let’s consider how delinquency affects the situation. Electricity supply companies, or power companies, provide services based on contracts. These contracts include the obligation to make payments. Therefore, if payments are delinquent, the power company has the right to suspend services as a breach of contract. In my friend’s case, this rule was applied. The power company determined that payment was not being made and decided to cut off the electricity. After that, he proceeded with the cancellation process, completely severing his relationship with the original provider. However, the problem starts here.

The Relationship Between New Applications and Delinquency

Now, if my friend applies to a new power company, there is a high likelihood that his application will be rejected if there are outstanding payments with the original company. This is because most power companies check past payment histories to refer to customer credit information. If there is a history of delinquency or service suspension, it will be a factor in the decision-making process for new contracts. One point of concern here is how the new company my friend is trying to apply to will know about the delinquency. In reality, power companies often share customer information with each other. This is to protect customers and also to maintain the integrity of the industry.

Legal Strategies from a Legal Perspective

So, what should my friend do? First, it is essential to contact the original power company with outstanding payments. It is important to explain the reasons for not being able to pay and to discuss future payment plans. Many power companies may offer options such as payment extensions or installment plans. Next, to demonstrate the intention to pay, it would be better to contact them by phone urgently rather than searching for the payment slip. During that conversation, it is advisable to honestly convey the situation and seek advice on what to do.

Options for New Contracts

If negotiations with the original power company do not go well, I can understand why my friend is considering applying to a new power company, but caution is necessary in that case. The company he applies to may reject the application based on their review of credit information. If it is absolutely necessary to look for a new company, it is important to thoroughly check the terms and conditions of that company in advance. Additionally, contacting other power companies may reveal that their criteria for reviewing delinquency differ, so there might be a chance to secure a contract if luck is on his side.

In Conclusion

Delinquency in electricity payments is a surprisingly common issue. In our daily lives, we can easily forget about it, but the impact can be significant. When faced with a situation like my friend’s, it is crucial to respond calmly. While it is often difficult to secure a new contract with outstanding payments, there are always solutions. Engaging in honest discussions with the original company and explaining one’s situation can lead to unexpected support. Remember that you are not alone in facing these issues, and act with confidence. Thus, while interactions with power companies can sometimes be complex, taking appropriate action can certainly open up pathways. Mistakes can happen to anyone, but the actions taken afterward can change the future, so let’s proceed step by step without rushing.