Are you unhappy with the service you are receiving from gas, electric, water, postal or other similar businesses? If so, you should take up the matter with the company itself in the first instance. Most have official complaints procedures and they should be able to send you a copy. If you are not happy with the response you receive to your complaint there are organisations which have been set up by the Government to help you and York Trading Standards is happy to offer advice on the type of service each of these offers and how to contact them.

electricity and Gas

The Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (Ofgem) was formed in 1999 by the merger of Ofgas (the former gas regulator) and OFFER (the former electricity regulator). It is the regulator for gas and electricity industries and protects the interests of consumers, ensuring they get genuine choice and value, by promoting effective competition and regulating monopolies.

Since November 2000 the independent Gas and Electricity Council (GECC) replaced the Gas Consumers Council (GCC), the Electricity Consumers' Committees and Ofgem's regional complaints handling offices. Consumers with gas and electricity problems can contact the GECC for advice and help.

Telecommunications

All telecommunications (telephone, fax, Internet) come under the remit of The Office of Telecommunications (OFTEL). ICSTIS, the telephone services watchdog, regulates premium rate services (090 numbers).

Water

The Office of Water Services (OFWAT) is responsible for making sure water and sewerage companies in England and Wales give good quality, efficient service at a fair price. The Drinking Water Inspectorate investigates complaints about water quality and investigates incidents which affect or could affect water quality.

Doorstep Selling

With the opening up of the utilities market, customers now have more choice when it comes to which company they want to buy their gas and electricity from and some companies offer package deals for both services.

However, this has led to complaints about pressurised selling techniques. York Trading Standards can advise on your rights when signing any agreement 'on the doorstep' and can provide information on how to find out which Company has the best deal for you.

Postal Services

The Post Office Users National Council (POUNC) represents users' interests in the Post Office and investigates complaints.

For further information on the regulators contact City of York Trading Standards at 9 St Leonard's Place, telephone (01904) 551562 or fax (01904) 551511. The e-mail address is: trading.standards@york.gov.uk