First step — check the calculation
Ask the supplier organisation in writing for a detailed calculation of the debt: for which period, at which tariff, with which meter readings. In practice, errors are common. Check the penalty too: under article 134 of the Housing Code, for natural persons the penalty is 0.1 per cent for each day of delay, but not more than 50 per cent of the overdue sum.
Filing an objection
If you do not agree, file a written application and keep a copy. If the answer does not satisfy you, apply to the higher organisation or to the court.
Payment by instalments
If the debt is real, try to agree a payment schedule with the supplier organisation. Put the agreement in writing.
Important
The law regulates how a service is suspended. Under article 134 of the Housing Code, if the mandatory payments are not paid for more than three months, the supply of the utility service is suspended. If electricity and gas are not paid for in time, and if water is not paid for in advance, measures up to a full disconnection from the networks are applied. If the service was cut off unlawfully, you can appeal against that act.