Got a case where Alabama Power wants to go back 4 years on a C&I account for alleged meter bypass. Customer swears they didn't touch anything and there's no obvious evidence of tampering. What's the statute of limitations in Alabama for utility backbilling? Can't find clear guidance in their tariffs.
Alabama Power backbill limits - anyone know the rules?
Alabama doesn't have a specific statute like some states. It falls under general contract law - usually 6 years max. But Alabama Power's tariff should have language about notification timeframes and billing error corrections. Check Schedule F or their general terms and conditions. In Florida we have 2-year limit for utility error, 4 years if they can prove theft.
Missouri has 3-year limit but allows longer for proven tampering. Key word is "proven" - they need more than just unexplained usage changes. Demand to see their investigation report, photos, witness statements. Alabama Power tends to be reasonable if you push back with documentation requirements.
Check if they had any service calls or meter work in that timeframe. Sometimes their own techs cause the problems then blame the customer. OG&E pulled that on us once - turned out their contractor left connections loose during routine maintenance. Got the whole backbill cancelled.