Home heating oil operators were last night reminded that they must honour agreed prices with householders or risk facing enforcement action.
With the prices of home heating oil soaring following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the Department for the Economy’s Trading Standards Service (TSS) last night moved to remind domestic home heating oil retailers and online brokers of their obligations under consumer protection law.
A search of a popular Northern Ireland website last night returned just one company offering 900 litres for less than £1,000 (£990).
Fifty-five others quoted more than £1,000, the highest £1,246.
The TSS consumer advice helpline, Consumerline, said it had received a high volume of calls about price increases in domestic home heating oil and non-delivery over the last week.
Most complainants allege that they have been quoted a price and paid for home heating oil on the day of the order and are subsequently informed that the price has increased significantly on the day of delivery (usually 3-5 working days later).
Consumers are then notified that they must pay the higher price or the order will be cancelled.
Damien Doherty, Northern Ireland’s Chief Trading Standards Officer, said: "If a domestic home heating oil retailer or online broker enters into an agreement for an order of oil with an agreed price and accepts payment then they have formed a legally binding contract.
"If the oil is not then delivered, this is likely to amount to a breach of contract," he said.
"Quoting a price and taking payment on the day of order and then charging a higher price on the day of delivery is also likely to amount to a breach of contract".
Mr Doherty said the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008 prevents businesses from treating consumers unfairly.
"The circumstances of the complaints received by Consumerline are likely to give rise to a breach of Regulations," he said.
"Businesses which do not comply with consumer protection laws risk facing enforcement action.
"TSS has the power to investigate any complaints in relation to breaches of the CPRs, particularly if a trader has already received advice from this Service or receives further complaints about a business".
Mr Doherty added: "TSS is also aware however that many home heating oil companies are treating their customers fairly and honouring agreed contracts.
"TSS would also ask consumers to exercise patience and forbearance, where possible, as the current rise in energy costs is having a significant impact on traders also".
Consumerline can be contacted on 0300 123 6262 or online at www.consumerline.org
