How late can someone invoice and still be paid?

[Rumplestiltskinismyname]

We moved house about 2 years ago, and at that time tapered out the cleaning service we were previously using. The woman that was our cleaner was getting complacent, and I decided that I could probably do a better job.

So, I phoned and cancelled the service. Fine- no problems.

However, today, almost 2 years later I have been emailed a copy of an invoice and a letter saying that we owe 200 from spring 2012 (when we stopped using them).

Unfortunately, as I cancelled by phone I don't have a letter terminating our contract, so I don't know if they are taking the piss or not in terms of the timing. More fool me.

I thought we paid by direct debit, so I will go back to my bank and ask them to clarify when our last payment was made.

However, trying to recoup money nearly 2 years on for cleaning works... is this right? If we don't pay, could we be taken to a small claims court? I feel slightly aggrieved, as I can't clearly remember events that happened 6 months ago, let alone 2 years. I cannot understand why we weren't chased earlier, as we would've happily (and probably have been embarrassed) paid if this was within 6 months of the end of our relationship with them.

[prh47bridge]

They have 6 years from the time you last made a payment to chase you for the debt. So I'm afraid they are well within the time limit.