Flat mate stole utilities money

[JM1]

Hi there. Hope everyone is well. Advice please. For 6 months up to Jan22 I co-rented a flat. The other person had been there for years. We paid the rent to the agency and I paid her half of all utilities. I’ve just found out that she hadn’t been paying some of the bills and a court order was issued against us in Jan. I knew nothing at all about this so didn't have the chance to go to court. She has moved and the court doesn't know where she is. They found me at my new address and the collection company is writing to me to pay all of it. So I’m going to have to pay twice and her share. Then try and have the judgement removed. I know I was too trusting. I actually didn't live in the flat for 3 of the 6 months as she made me feel so uncomfortable and stole some possessions. Any advice please?

Well for a start you can get the court order “struck off” because it was passed without giving you a chance to defend yourself.

If you pay you're accepting liability. I'd ask in the legal section whether they think an application to set judgement aside would be success (Court Form N244-£275).

There are a few legally trained MNers in there.

Surely if the bills are in her name then the debt sits with her?

Do you have proof you paid her?

i would called Shelter and see if they can give you some free legal advise.

Who’s name was the bills in?

Thank you for replying. It is council tax and the agency notified the council of my addition to the rental.

Wouldn't they have to prove you had a contract with them in your name?

Hi there, thank you. Yes I have the bank transfers for every month.

Thank you. The court order is for council tax and that was in both names.

Is it a CCJ or a liability order?

Thanks. Not sure. Will be ringing Council shortly as it’s a letter for the outstanding amount and an addition for court costs.

You Dan usually check if it's a CCJ as it will show up on your credit report.

Then hunt her down and post dog shit through her letterbox. A few times.