Gas contractor cut through my LX.

[221b]

Hello
Recently gas contractors upgrading pipework, cut through my & my neighbours' LX cables.
We were without either power for 18 hrs.
I am self-employed & work from home. I couldn't use my phone nor computer, both of which are absolutely necessary for my job. Also, I had to chuck out all the food in my fridge-freezer.
The Gas contractors are being fined �20,000 by the Electricity board.
We had no light, heat, means of cooking or making hot drinks, couldn't use the washing machine, watch telly etc nor wash ourselves other than in bloody freezing cold water. This was before the clocks changed so we sat in darkness! My neighbour wrote to the contractors several weeks ago. They're being very obstructive about paying, saying they want receipts for all the food. How ridiculous! Who keeps food bills for 6 m after food's in the freezer? I know home insurance covers for a set amount for fridge & freezer food, but I'm not sure what this usually is.
I'd also like to claim for loss of earnings, but being self-employed, my earnings are not set amounts daily. I was totally unable to apply for work that day - part of what i do involves sending 'quick application' voice clips via the internet to pitch for work, & making instant turn-around recordings for clients using my computer. Advice?
Many thanks,

[Nhozu]

You wont be able to claim the loss of your earnings. Being a pure economic loss it is not usually covered by the tort of negligence.

You could claim from the energy company for the food in your fridge, but considering you have insurance I would not bother.

The current regulatory provisions would not cover a 18hr period. I believe the rate is �50 for the first 24hrs and then �25 for every 12hrs after that.