Introduction
From October 2010 we will provide a breakdown of the connection charge with every offer for a new or modified connection. Using the breakdown you will be able to assess the accuracy of the connection charge by making a comparison with a table of charges showing the minimum and maximum values for distinct elements of work. Click here to view the table of charges included in Section 7 of our Statement of Methodology and Charges for Connection for South Wales, and here for the South West.
By a simple process, the Quotation Accuracy Scheme (QAS) allows you to challenge the accuracy of the connection charge for certain scheme types.
Are you eligible to challenge?
You can challenge under the QAS if the connection charge is for –
- 1-4 domestic dwellings; or
- a single 100Amp, three phase connection requiring only a service line.
In each case the highest voltage of assets associated in providing the connection(s) must be at low voltage, and
You believe your offer to be incorrect for one or both of the following reasons –
- the connection charge is outside the price ranges given in the relevant QAS tables;
- you are unable to make a comparison as we have not provided sufficient information with the offer.
If you have any difficulties in understanding the cost breakdown, please do not hesitate to first get in touch with our named contact in your offer letter.
How to challenge
You can challenge a connection charge using the QAS within 60 calendar days of its issue or within 10 calendar days of your acceptance, whichever is the earlier.
Complete the online QAS challenge form ensuring you provide an explanation as to why you are challenging the connection charge.
What will happen next?
We will acknowledge receipt of your QAS challenge and provide you with a unique reference number.
We shall review the connection charge and assess whether –
- We have provided enough information to allow you to make an assessment of the accuracy of the connection charge, and
- The connection charge falls within the ranges identified in the relevant tables.
Following our assessment we will write and inform you whether we believe the original connection charge to be accurate or not.
If we have failed in either, or both of the conditions outlined above (excepting where the connection charge is outside of the range of charges but we have provided a legitimate explanation as to the reason for the discrepancy), we will –
- provide a revised connection offer;
- make a penalty payment;
- make a partial refund of the connection charge (where the connection charge has already been paid).
If we believe the original connection charge is correct, the offer will still apply.
For further information regarding the QAS, please click here.