British Gas debt agents made third of all applications to force-fit prepay meters

Charities and campaigners have condemned the practice of force-fitting prepayment meters in the homes of vulnerable people. Photograph: Christopher Furlong/Getty Images

The debt collection agency that force-fitted prepayment meters for vulnerable British Gas customers made a third of all warrant of entry applications in England and Wales last year, the Guardian can reveal.

Arvato Financial Solutions, a company used by the energy supplier to pursue debts, made 122,536 applications to gain entry into homes last year – and had just 11 rejected.