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Business Profile

Electric Companies

DEMCO

Complaints

Customer Complaints Summary

  • 22 total complaints in the last 3 years.
  • 8 complaints closed in the last 12 months.

If you've experienced an issue

Submit a Complaint

The complaint text that is displayed might not represent all complaints filed with BBB. Some consumers may elect to not publish the details of their complaints, some complaints may not meet BBB's standards for publication, or BBB may display a portion of complaints when a high volume is received for a particular business.

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Complaint status

Complaint type

  • Initial Complaint

    Date:11/12/2024

    Type:Billing Issues
    Status:
    AnsweredMore info

    Complaint statuses

    Resolved:
    The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
    Unresolved:
    The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
    Answered:
    The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
    Unanswered:
    The business failed to respond to the dispute.
    Unpursuable:
    BBB is unable to locate the business.
    I sold my house and paid my final bill at ***** ********** ** ****** ******* ** with Demco in person and then cut off my services with Demco. Did not get notified of any late payments or bills until a collections call a year later from Online Information Services originating from Demco. This collections has impacted my credit and the dates that Demco charged me for I did not reside in the residence and the collections should’ve been cut off. I called to explain to Demco that I paid and closed out my account in person and was told I do not owe anything and that the services has been disconnected late July/early August. The DEMCO acct number is 3434158. The collections acct number is #**************** with a reference to the issue being ********

    Business Response

    Date: 11/12/2024

    Mr. ********** *********** contacted DEMCO on 08/30/2023 with a request to disconnect services as of 09/05/2023.  At that time, there was a balance for an 08/17/23 bill (which covered the billing period of 07/09/23 - 08/08/23) for $319.67.  Services were disconnected as requested on 09/05/2023 and a final bill dated 09/05/23 was generated which included the previous balance of $319.67 and the new charges (from the billing period 08/08/23 - 09/05/23) for $310.86, which brought the total due on the account to $630.53.

    On 09/08/2023, Mr. *********** contacted us to inquire about the balance due.  He was advised that we had not received the payment of $319.67 and the new bill had generated which was the reason the balance was $630.53.  He requested to cancel auto pay and the representative advised him that he had already cancelled it on 09/06.  He inquired about a payment arrangement and was advised that we cannot make arrangements on accounts that are no longer active.  Payment was never received and the balance of $630.53 was sent to collections.

    Mr. *********** contacted our office on 11/12/2024 and requested a copy of the bills in questions.  Our representative sent an email with the copies for his review.  In order to remove the charges from his credit record, he will need to make the payment in full to the collection agency, then contact DEMCO to advise the payment has been made.  We will then follow up with the collection agency to ensure the item is removed from Mr. ***********'s history.

  • Initial Complaint

    Date:09/24/2024

    Type:Billing Issues
    Status:
    AnsweredMore info

    Complaint statuses

    Resolved:
    The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
    Unresolved:
    The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
    Answered:
    The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
    Unanswered:
    The business failed to respond to the dispute.
    Unpursuable:
    BBB is unable to locate the business.
    I received a bill for $750 they said it as 2 months billing. I informed them my bill was high but never like this. They said its because they couldn't get to my meter probably because of dog, gate or tree down. We had neither. Then iget a message oh were changing all the meters Because they are old. I don't think its right

    Business Response

    Date: 09/25/2024

    Sent attached email to member to explain the charges, billing amounts, payments received and estimated bill issue.  I was able to speak to her and clarify the information and assist her with a bill extension.  I left her with my contact information in the event she has any questions or problems.  Please let me know if I can provide any further information or assistance.
  • Initial Complaint

    Date:09/18/2024

    Type:Billing Issues
    Status:
    AnsweredMore info

    Complaint statuses

    Resolved:
    The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
    Unresolved:
    The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
    Answered:
    The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
    Unanswered:
    The business failed to respond to the dispute.
    Unpursuable:
    BBB is unable to locate the business.
    Demco provided a bill then doubled the bill and 0 communication was provided in regulated to combining the bills. I had to reach out across several departments to receive communication. I paid the bill still not receiving adequate communication of 181 in September then I receive a notice today indicating I’m late paying a bill of 54.00 in which I never received and already paid 181 in September. This company is fraudulent and stealing as well as poor to no communication. A rep hung up and didn’t call back and the next was not answering my questions. I’ve ask to speak with a supervisor several times and none was provided

    Business Response

    Date: 10/10/2024

    Member contacted our office on 08/14/24 and spoke with a representative regarding the bills she received one for $94.21 and another for $181.39.  She was advised that the $94.21 was for the bill dated 07/25/24.  She disconnected services on the account and received a final bill for $181.39 which included the charges from the prior billing of $94.21. 

    She called in again on 09/18/24 upset about receiving a delinquent notice on her new account.  She stated she was not aware of the $35.00 new connection fee and disputed the late fee on the bill because she indicated she did not receive notification.  A supervisor contacted her and again explained the charges that made up the $181.39 bill.  She waived the late fee penalty and apologized that she was not made aware of the $35 standard new connect fee charged on all new account services.  She verified her email and was advised that her account was set up for e-billing, not paper statements, and that she can adjust her bill notification and delivery settings to her preference.  The supervisor encouraged her to login to her account to view her communications and billing settings.

  • Initial Complaint

    Date:09/08/2024

    Type:Billing Issues
    Status:
    AnsweredMore info

    Complaint statuses

    Resolved:
    The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
    Unresolved:
    The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
    Answered:
    The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
    Unanswered:
    The business failed to respond to the dispute.
    Unpursuable:
    BBB is unable to locate the business.
    I have had issues with DEMCO since starting service , unorganized employees, you think you have something handled to later speak with someone else that simply says “I don’t see it on file” . This has happened more than once , so this passed bill I’ve got an extension for the 20th of this month “ not on file” . So my power is disconnected, I’ve been a good paying customer, you’d think they’d be better handling customers . Wish I had Entergy , again .

    Business Response

    Date: 09/23/2024

    The member at this location had a bill dated 08/05/24 that was due on 08/24/24.  No payment was received by the due date and a delinquent bill was mailed out on 08/27/24.  On 09/05/24, a delinquent call notifying the member that payment was due to avoid cutoff was placed.  Payment was not received and the account was disconnected for non-payment on 09/06/24.  Member called in on 09/06/24 and was advised of the amount needed to reconnect services.  Member called in on 09/10/24 inquiring about amount needed to reconnect services and the information was given again.  There is no record of a payment extension (arrangement) made extending the due date to 09/20/24.  I attempted to contact member 09/23/24 and did not get an answer but left my contact information.  If member returns my call, I will alert him how to set up payment alerts and arrangements online, or using our phone line and how to check to ensure arrangement is in place using his MyDEMCO account.
  • Initial Complaint

    Date:08/26/2024

    Type:Service or Repair Issues
    Status:
    AnsweredMore info

    Complaint statuses

    Resolved:
    The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
    Unresolved:
    The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
    Answered:
    The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
    Unanswered:
    The business failed to respond to the dispute.
    Unpursuable:
    BBB is unable to locate the business.
    Demco and or their contractors cleared the power lines in the ROW at ********* ** ********* * (Hwy *** ** **** ***** )but left the limbs and logs in my ditch and blocking my gate to the north side of my property . I need the limbs removed from the Ditch as I maintain this ROW as my property corners extend into the road. At this time my gate is blocked .

    Business Response

    Date: 08/28/2024

    A representative went back to the location where helicopter trimming took place and gathered the limbs and debris left behind.  This issue has been resolved directly with the member.   Also emailed the member information on Right-of-Way trimming and how to submit an inquiry on our website.
  • Initial Complaint

    Date:07/18/2024

    Type:Customer Service Issues
    Status:
    ResolvedMore info

    Complaint statuses

    Resolved:
    The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
    Unresolved:
    The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
    Answered:
    The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
    Unanswered:
    The business failed to respond to the dispute.
    Unpursuable:
    BBB is unable to locate the business.
    This dispute is the need to get a new reading on a meter that has not been read. All of the details are in the attached letter.

    Customer Answer

    Date: 07/22/2024

    I filed a complaint against DEMCO.  The business did reach out to me July 19 and the matter has been resolved.  To my satisfaction I may add.  Therefore no further action is required.

  • Initial Complaint

    Date:06/07/2024

    Type:Service or Repair Issues
    Status:
    ResolvedMore info

    Complaint statuses

    Resolved:
    The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
    Unresolved:
    The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
    Answered:
    The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
    Unanswered:
    The business failed to respond to the dispute.
    Unpursuable:
    BBB is unable to locate the business.
    The problems are detailed in the uploaded letter. Please let me know if you need any further information.

    Business Response

    Date: 06/14/2024

    This complaint has been resolved directly with the member.  Service order delays were experienced due to the storms in the area.  The job was completed and member's services have been restored.

    Customer Answer

    Date: 06/17/2024


    Better Business Bureau:

    I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID 21817913, and find that this resolution is satisfactory to me.

    Sincerely,

    ****** *** **** ********
  • Initial Complaint

    Date:06/06/2024

    Type:Billing Issues
    Status:
    AnsweredMore info

    Complaint statuses

    Resolved:
    The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
    Unresolved:
    The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
    Answered:
    The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
    Unanswered:
    The business failed to respond to the dispute.
    Unpursuable:
    BBB is unable to locate the business.
    I moved out of state in 2021 upon moving and selling I disconnected services. I never received a communication about a balance due nor a phone call. My number has not changed. I have a respectable 800 credit score and monitor it frequently to my dismay a collection has opened from demco. Stating I owe money from three years ago, I was always in good standing with demco. I’m appalled I didn’t recieve proper communication. I have reached out via email to demco to resolve and no response, I’m happy to pay anything that can be proven that I owed it. But want this taken off my credit immediately

    Business Response

    Date: 06/14/2024

    We have provided the member, Ms. *****, with copies of her final two bills which represents the charges in question.  Once payment is received, we will have the items removed from her credit profile.  A representative will follow up with Ms. ***** to give payment instructions.
  • Initial Complaint

    Date:03/03/2023

    Type:Billing Issues
    Status:
    AnsweredMore info

    Complaint statuses

    Resolved:
    The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
    Unresolved:
    The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
    Answered:
    The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
    Unanswered:
    The business failed to respond to the dispute.
    Unpursuable:
    BBB is unable to locate the business.
    DEMCO has apparently submitted a debt that I supposedly owe for collection without attempting to contact me. This has now showed up on my credit report and it lowering it by about 70 points, once again, without any attempt at communication. Both properties which I am associated with have been sold in excess of 2 and 30 years ago, respectively, so I'm not even sure what account they are trying to collect this alleged debt on. Moreover, the debt company they are using does not provide any contact information whatsoever.

    Business Response

    Date: 03/07/2023

    Contact was made with Ms. ******* regarding the outstanding debt from a bill that posted on October 14, 2022.  The account was set up in Ms. *******'s name on  August 13,1986 and remained in her name until it was disconnected on 10/12/2022.  Ms. ******* indicated that the property was sold to family members 30 years ago, however it was left in her name.  Ms. ******* indicated that she was aware that the bill was in her name and her family members advised her that they would take care of the balances due.  Per Ms. *******, the home was sold again.  The outstanding balance represents the final bill made to the account for the service period of 09/06/22 - 10/12/22.  Ms. ******* was advised that since the account is in her name she is held as the responsible party for the payment.  A copy of the final bill was emailed to Ms. ******* via the email address provided herein.  Ms. *******'s address on file and email were not her current information.  Ms. ******* was provided with my contact information if she needs additional assistance.

    Business Response

    Date: 03/08/2023

    Attached is a copy of the email that was sent to Ms. ******* shortly after our phone conversation.  Also attached is a copy of the billing that was attached to the email.  It is the responsibility of the member to make sure that their mailing address, phone numbers and email information is accurate in order to receive communications from DEMCO.  Since the billing was allowed to stay in her name, Ms. ******* is responsible for the charges.  Once payment has been made, we will report the debt as paid to the appropriate agencies.

    Customer Answer

    Date: 03/08/2023


    Complaint: 19533315

    I am rejecting this response because: As previously stated, I have no record of the supposed email sent by DEMCO. The correct email address, as I stated on the call is pam*******@gmail.com. While I do not agree with DEMCO that there is even a debt in my name on the account, as per the sale of the house, it the next party's responsibility to take care of the change of utilities on the property, I am willing to settle the debt for what DEMCO claims I owe, provided that it is *removed* from the major credit reporting bureau's credit report completely, not simply marked as paid. I also require confirmation that the debt is still DEMCO's debt to collect, since most of the time, these debts are sold to a collection company and no longer remain with the original company. 

    Sincerely,

    ****** *******
  • Initial Complaint

    Date:01/23/2023

    Type:Billing Issues
    Status:
    AnsweredMore info

    Complaint statuses

    Resolved:
    The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
    Unresolved:
    The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
    Answered:
    The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
    Unanswered:
    The business failed to respond to the dispute.
    Unpursuable:
    BBB is unable to locate the business.
    Why does it seem like I’m fronting the whole PCA? The PCA charge is the same amount if not a little less than my usage charge, that being said I UNDERSTAND cLECO is the reasoning with fuel prices going up, but I thought the PCA charges were supposed to be finished in April 2022 from what the CEOs message said, why is it still skyrocketing? Have I missed a newer memo from the CEO?

    Business Response

    Date: 01/30/2023

    I contacted our member to discuss the PCA charges on the billing.  I offered to share a copy of the member's billing and usage history and he declined.  The PCA charges are always present on the bill and are not new charges.  These charges represent the cost for fuel that is used to generate the energy consumed by the member.  This is a pass through charge that is collected from the member and paid directly to our wholesale power contractor.  Nationwide, the increased cost of fuel has caused an increase in electricity costs.  DEMCO has recently been approved to enter into a new wholesale power contract that we expect will result in a decrease in wholesale power costs.  This new power contract will not go into effect until 2024.  

    The member did not have any further questions regarding the charge and did not request any further assistance.

    Please let me know if any additional information is needed.

     

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