Utilities Debt Recovery

LRC is a proud supplier to the utility sector, currently acting for a number of the top ten utility suppliers in the UK.

We currently collect utility debts in respect of unpaid utility supplies, HR /salary overpayments, broker, and developer debts.

We have a detailed knowledge of the utility industry and work with outsourced suppliers offering ancillary services to support recovery of non-payment of utility services.

Types of Utility Debts We Recover

  • Unpaid Utility Supplies: Helping utility providers recover unpaid bills for gas, electricity, water, and other essential services.
  • Broker and Developer Debts: Working with brokers and developers to recover outstanding payments related to utility connections or agreements.
  • Salary Overpayments: Recovering salary overpayments within the utility sector, including payments made in error to current or former employees.

Our Approach to Utility Debt Recovery

  • Pre-Legal Collections: We employ a 30-day collection cycle using letters, emails, calls, and SMS reminders to engage with the debtor and collect outstanding payments before legal action is required.
  • Legal Collections: If the pre-legal stage is unsuccessful, we work closely with you to initiate legal proceedings where appropriate, ensuring that all necessary steps are taken to recover the debt.
  • Post-Judgment Enforcement: Once a judgment has been obtained, we offer a variety of enforcement methods such as High Court Enforcement Agents, charging orders, or attachment of earnings to ensure the recovery of the outstanding amounts.

Why Choose LRC for Utility Debt Recovery?

  • Industry Expertise: We have a deep understanding of the utility industry and its unique challenges, allowing us to provide effective and compliant debt recovery solutions.
  • Tailored Solutions: We offer a bespoke service, adapting our strategies to suit the specific requirements of each utility provider we work with.
  • Seamless Integration: We can easily integrate with your existing systems, providing you with real-time updates and access to our online Debt Manager platform to monitor the progress of each case.
  • Reputation Management: We prioritise protecting your brand while pursuing debt recovery, ensuring all interactions are handled professionally and ethically.

Technology and Tools for Effective Debt Recovery

  • Track and audit cases in real-time.
  • View communications including emails, letters, and calls.
  • Monitor payments collected and track costs associated with each case.
  • Download management reports for clear visibility of case progress and performance.

Ongoing Support and Compliance

  • At LRC, we pride ourselves on providing continuous support to our clients throughout the debt recovery process.
  • We remain up-to-date with the latest industry regulations and best practices to ensure that all actions we take are fully compliant with utility sector standards.
  • You’ll also benefit from expert advice on how to optimise your internal credit control processes to reduce the risk of future debt.
Get in touch

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If you are a business and would like to know more about how we can help you please complete the short form below and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

Featured Customer Reviews

Utilita Energy Limited

We contacted LRC when we wanted to strengthen our collections processes and recover debt after we had exhausted our internal processes attempting to collect. From the off, LRC offered exceptional advice and support and helped us shape the way in which we approach collections. The team at LRC have a wealth of knowledge and experience which has enabled them to collect a significant amount of money on our behalf and through their professional approach have helped to change customer behaviour in many cases from infrequent to regular payers. LRC have tailored their collections activities to meet our needs and regularly make suggestions to make sure we spend our money wisely to ensure maximum return from their services . We are currently working with LRC to create a bespoke training package that they will deliver to staff across the business who manage and recover debt. I would not hesitate to recommend LRC for debt recovery.

E.ON Energy Solutions

LRC have been an excellent organisation to work with. They aspire and deliver to a partnership principle rather than a transactional relationship and as such have helped to unlock our strategic deliverables. They really are prepared to give added value in these times of economic stress.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of utility debts does Legal Recoveries & Collections recover?

Legal Recoveries & Collections handles debts arising from unpaid utility bills such as gas, electricity, water, and other related services. This includes recovery of overdue charges for residential and commercial accounts, as well as salary and overpayment recoveries, broker debts, and developer debts. LRC’s team works closely with utility suppliers to manage debts in a compliant and ethical manner, reflecting the complex regulatory environment of the utility sector.

How does the utility debt recovery process work?

The process begins with account assessment and gentle reminders or notifications to the customer about outstanding bills. If debts remain unpaid, the matter can escalate through pre-legal recovery efforts, including letters before action. Should these prove unsuccessful, formal legal recovery and enforcement options are considered. Throughout, LRC ensures compliance with utility-specific regulations and communicates clearly with both suppliers and customers to encourage timely resolution.

Are there any special regulations that utility debt recovery must comply with?

Yes, utility debt recovery is subject to strict regulation to protect vulnerable customers and ensure fair treatment. This includes adherence to industry-specific codes of practice for energy and water suppliers, compliance with relevant financial conduct regulations, and observance of the Data Protection Act and GDPR. Utility companies and their recovery agents must also provide clear information about debt advice services and offer flexible payment options wherever possible.

What happens if a customer cannot pay their utility debt in full?

If a customer cannot pay their utility debt in full, LRC and the utility supplier work together to arrange affordable repayment plans tailored to the customer’s financial situation. This might include instalment agreements, benefit deductions like Fuel Direct or Water Direct, or fitting prepayment meters where appropriate. These measures aim to balance effective recovery with customer support and social responsibility.

How long does it usually take to recover utility debts?

The timeline varies depending on the debt size, customer engagement, and escalation steps taken. Initial reminders and pre-legal contact usually resolve most debts within 30 to 60 days. If legal action becomes necessary, recovery may extend over weeks or months depending on court processes and enforcement measures. LRC keeps clients informed throughout to manage expectations.

Can I claim interest or additional costs on unpaid utility bills?

In business-to-business utility debts, you may be entitled to charge statutory interest and late payment fees under UK legislation. For residential consumer debts, rules are more restrictive and require clear disclosure and compliance with sector regulations. LRC advises clients on applicable charges and ensures adherence to the law when recovering any additional costs.

How does Legal Recoveries & Collections handle vulnerable customers?

LRC is committed to identifying and supporting vulnerable customers who may be experiencing hardship. The debt recovery process for such individuals includes tailored communication, flexible payment options, and referrals to free debt advice services. Utility suppliers and LRC follow industry guidance to treat vulnerable customers fairly and avoid aggressive recovery actions.

What can customers do if they disagree with a utility debt claim?

Customers disputing utility debts are encouraged to contact their supplier or LRC directly to raise their concerns and provide supporting evidence. Disputes are investigated promptly, and resolution is sought through negotiation where possible. If unresolved, the matter may proceed through formal complaint channels or legal processes with full transparency.

Is prepayment meter installation a common recovery option for unpaid utility debts?

Prepayment meters can be offered as a debt recovery tool, especially when direct payment is challenging for the customer. Customers agree to pay as they use utility services, which helps control expenditure and gradually reduce arrears. However, installation is subject to safeguarding rules, and exemptions apply for customers with certain health conditions or disabilities.

How does Legal Recoveries & Collections ensure compliance with utility sector regulations?

LRC stays fully up-to-date with all relevant utility sector regulations, codes of practice, and legal requirements. The agency implements robust internal controls and staff training to ensure every debt recovery action is compliant and ethical. This professionalism protects both clients and customers while maintaining the integrity of the recovery process.

Get in Touch with Us

If you have any questions about our service or would like to discuss your matters with us in greater detail, please contact the Business Development Team on 0330 024 6342