I am trying to understand the logic of a system that, for years, has overcharged non-Maltese nationals, and tenant Maltese nationals, by refusing access to the residential rate for utilities without the landlord's written permission.  

Having recently been shown the error of its ways, ARMS Ltd is now accepting applications via Form H1, (application for redress) from those who have been overcharged. If their IT system had been implemented correctly, over the years, it should show quite clearly those that have been overcharged and that the bills for these properties are, more than likely, under dispute and are almost certain to be issued a refund!!

It seems to me that none of the departments seem to work together in the 'disconnection' department - disconnect without any history being taken into the equation.

Will I ever understand?!

At the same time, in all of the renovations of the documentation appearing on the web page, they still refuse to inform the unsuspecting tenant that if their landlord refuses to allow them to register on their rental property, the canny landlord will bill them at the domestic, non-residential rate for the duration of their stay, some paying as much as €6.50 per unit of water and €0.35 per unit of electricity; €5.45 per unit of water €0.38 per unit of electricity; and the pièce de résistance - €0.24c for electricity and €11.00 per unit of water.  

Do these people make it up as they go along?! I thought there were strict rules regarding electricity and water pricing in Malta!

Let's not even touch many of the company lets, which seem to have carte blanche on charging whatever they feel like for utilities, refuse to put the bills in the tenants name and are now unable, due a another new ruling from ARMS, to endorse Form H by way of the Company Director.

You couldn't make it up if you tried!

All of the above information is factual and supported by information and documentation received by members. Details of how to claim back overcharges can be found on the ARMS Ltd web page.

Patricia Graham

Up in Arms EU Advisory Group Malta