[Snaxmuppet]

I haven't had any issues with PodPoint... I just pre-load the account and my charges get debited... simple

 

[Snaxmuppet]

I don't have any sort of account, AFAIK. This was a charge point in a hotel car park, with a website link to pay for a charge. I went on to that link, entered my card details, clicked the "claim this charge" button and assumed I was only going to be charged the amount that was notified when the charge completed, which was £6.95. Instead the buggers took £20 out of my account.

That doesn't sound good. At least you have credit to use for future charges.

On a slightly different note... I really don't like any chargers that require me to pay using my credit/debit card. I detest the pre-payment and then the fight to get the money back if the charge fails. That is why I have pre-paid on PodPoint and Bonnet. Unfortunately my personal policy means I can't use GridServe and as they are the biggest CPO on motorway services it makes life more difficult. I can't use MFG either. I am hoping they get put onto Bonnet but I won't hold my breath

 

[Snaxmuppet]

That's a very valid point. I still think though that this business model is likely to fail in the long run. Customers want to connect, tap their debit or credit card and pay, just like almost all transactions these days.

I would want that if there was no prepayment. I hate pre-payment and it can be a devil of a job to get the money back if the charge fails.

 

[Snaxmuppet]

Sounds like you might want to try your credit card for recourse. If it was a credit, rather than a debit, card then it might be easier.

 

[Snaxmuppet]

AFAIK, charge point operators aren't regulated in the same way as banks, so if they are holding customer's money like this then is it as well protected as if it was in a bank account?

Good point. IMHO I would say that it isn't protected at all. I would imagine it is just like a credit balance on an account with any company and that wouldn't be protected. If the company goes base up then you are likely to lose it.