Alabama Power Customer Service Issues

My power goes out whenever there is a strong gust of wind. I also rely on my computer, so it's frustrating not having power. The issue has been ongoing for 25 years, with my neighbor and I being the only houses affected. Despite reporting the problem multiple times, it seems like no one comes to resolve it. The transformer in our area always seems to be the source of the problem. It's disheartening that our repeated complaints have not led to a permanent fix. My yard has suffered damage due to this ongoing issue. I have no choice but to reach out to Alabama Power for help. I hope that someone at the company can understand the frustration I am facing without power since 10 p.m. last night. Address: [redacted] Overwood Circle, Birmingham, Alabama, [redacted]. Contact number: 1-[redacted].

Subject: Billing Confusion Dear Leigh Davis at Southern Company, Upon returning home on the evening of Feb 5, I was surprised to hear my generator running only to discover that my power had been cut off due to several missed payments. After investigating, it became clear that I had not paid my bill because the automatic drafting from my account wasn't set up following a bank switch in August. Despite making an immediate payment on Doxo, I was informed that I had to pay directly through the power company's website to have my power restored that evening, which was challenging given the time constraints after 7 pm. Unfortunately, amidst dealing with personal emergencies, including my husband's recent stroke, I was unaware of the billing issue. The overwhelming circumstances, house-selling woes, caring for family members, and spam-filled communication channels made it difficult for me to stay current on notifications. I am now concerned about the expenses incurred from running the generator during this period. I believe that the cost should not be passed on to me and I am hesitant about covering the next bill to offset this oversight. Sincerely, Betsy Clark [redacted] Old Brook Trail Birmingham, AL [redacted] P.S. I suggest that a physical notice on the door would have been beneficial in such situations, even if it meant an additional charge. Additionally, I encountered an unexpected fee on Doxo for processing the payment promptly.

Last summer, I noticed damage to my house soffit, facia board, and gutter due to pole movement. Despite having two carpenters assess the issue, they couldn't fix it without the power company's intervention. The problem stemmed from the power company's attachment of the cable to the facia board instead of the 2x4's inside the roof. This caused the boards to come loose. Although a company lineman installed a lighter residential line, the problem persists as the power cable remains connected to the old facia board. I've been trying to get this fixed since last summer, and now it's in Alabama Power's hands. Considering this is the third time my house has been damaged by the power line, I insist that Alabama Power takes responsibility for the repairs as my house and I are not the cause of the damage.

I am reaching out regarding the ongoing power outages we experience at [redacted] Buck Creek Road in Toxey. Our home is located past the pole with the switches, and we are the last house on this road drawing power from the Toxey area. Despite being the only house beyond us with an impassable road, our appeals to relocate the switches have been dismissed due to cost concerns. Unfortunately, whenever the wind picks up, trees fall on the power line, causing outages like the current one that started Saturday night. As of Monday 1:35, power is still out with no estimated restoration time provided. Your dedicated team has been tirelessly working to restore power, including replacing a transformer and awaiting additional crew assistance. The crew themselves expressed confusion over why our power runs through such a vulnerable area. This outage has led to significant losses in our refrigerator and freezer. We appreciate the hard work of your team but urge for a sustainable solution to prevent frequent outages in the future. I have provided my email for contact but would prefer a conversation to address this matter promptly. Thank you. -Randy Linder, [redacted] Buck Creek Road, Toxey, AL [redacted], Account # 39[redacted]3

I have been attempting for two days to reach someone by phone to discuss setting up a payment plan for my bill this month, but I have only encountered the automated system without any assistance. On the 5th, a tree fell and damaged my power pole and line, requiring me to purchase a new pole and hire an electrician to restore everything. Additionally, on the 9th, my teenage daughter gave birth, adding unexpected expenses. My income is limited, and I used up a significant portion on the power pole and electrician costs. If possible, I can make a payment of $[redacted] this Saturday and $[redacted] the following Saturday to catch up on my bill. There are individuals in my household that require special care, so these payments on the 20th and 27th of July would greatly help.

Request for Tree Limb Clean-Up Assistance I am reaching out regarding a recent incident where a crew had to trim large tree limbs on my property while replacing a transformer. Unfortunately, these limbs were left in my yard and I am unable to clean them up myself due to recent knee surgery and age. The crew did not need to access the pole from which they trimmed the limbs as we do not receive service from it. If possible, could someone please come out and remove these large limbs located just beyond our driveway at [redacted] Kendall Ct, Homewood, [redacted]. Thank you for your assistance. - J. Mezzell

Due to the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak, I am currently facing unemployment. I have applied for unemployment benefits with the Department of Labor, but it may take up to 3 weeks for processing. Currently, my financial situation is extremely tight, and I am struggling to keep up with all my bills. I would like to request a payment extension for my late bill, as I have been trying to catch up after experiencing a financial setback when my roommate abruptly moved out without contributing to our shared expenses. I am slowly making progress in getting back on track, but I need a little more time to stabilize my finances. It would be greatly appreciated if you could consider granting me an extension, as having essential services like electricity is crucial especially during this challenging period of staying at home. Thank you for your understanding and assistance.

Hello, I was trying to arrange temporary extended service for a mobile home being constructed behind my residence where my brother is working and needs power. An engineer assessed a cost of $[redacted] or more to connect power to the mobile home, a sum I cannot afford. The existing meter pole is in place, but they mentioned tree cutting and pole replacement at the current service site. I believe the trees to be trimmed are within the 30' right of way. I would be responsible for those costs as well as an additional pole for the connection. I am seeking guidance on how to negotiate these expenses. Due to the current situation with the virus, I am unemployed, and my brother needs a place to stay. Any assistance is greatly appreciated. Thank you.

Hi, I'm Linda Moss, and I was able to speak to a customer service representative after several attempts. Despite a pleasant interaction, I am perplexed by my $[redacted] power bill, with no clear explanation aside from being told it's our responsibility. As a 72-year-old who has been paying bills since I was 19, this is the first time I am facing such a high amount. While we have experienced a $[redacted] bill during colder periods in the past, this recent bill does not align with the current weather conditions. Our electricity usage habits have remained consistent, with minimal holiday decorations and standard appliance usage. I suspect there may be an issue with the meter and kindly request management to investigate urgently. As retirees on a fixed income, a $[redacted] bill is a significant burden for us.

I lost my mother a year ago, and unfortunately, she didn't have life insurance. She was the only family member I had left. I am disabled and struggling with Major Depressive Disorder and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder from being a survivor of childhood sexual abuse that lasted over a decade. Every utility company except Al Power has been understanding of my situation and has worked with me. Al Power disconnected my electricity a week ago, which has been extremely difficult for me as a PTSD survivor, especially during the silent nights when my mind races. Despite informing Al Power of my financial struggles after my mother's passing, they have shown no compassion. I urge Al Power to please consider doing the moral and compassionate thing by restoring my electricity. Thank you. - S. Shane Cargo

I have consistently paid my bills online without any issues for several years. However, after paying my bill on Jan 3, [redacted], I was surprised to see a $20 charge on my recent bill due to my bank returning the payment. Upon contacting my bank, I discovered that the payment was rejected because the routing number was used instead of my account number by Ala Power. Upon reviewing my payment history, I confirmed that indeed only the routing number was utilized, not my account number. Since this error was not mine or the bank's fault, I do not believe I should be penalized with a $20 late fee or threatened with losing my ability to pay online. I kindly request for my payment to be resent to my bank with the correct account number to ensure it is processed successfully, just like it has been in the past. Thank you, Judy Gann.

I used to pay at the Alabama Power office. My name is Karl Black, and that's where my service account originated. However, a few years ago, my bill increased when I switched to phone payments. I am requesting an account evaluation to be sent to [redacted] Mcmillion Ave SW, Birmingham, Alabama [redacted], Apt 4. You can reach me via email at [redacted] It would be helpful to receive written details at my address. I've noticed a significant rise in my bills since switching my payment method. I'd like to schedule an appointment to discuss this with an agent at Alabama Power, especially if there is an error. Please contact me through email regarding my account. Kindly review my account opening in August [redacted] at [redacted] Mcmillion Ave SW, Birmingham, Alabama, Apt 4. My new account number is 10[redacted]6, and I've observed a considerable increase in my bills. Payment in person at the Alabama Power office used to be cheaper. I want to verify if there is an error or if I need to visit the office in person. Thank you, Karl Black.

During the recent storms, we have been facing frequent power blinks that disrupt appliances like the air conditioning, refrigerator, TV, and dryer. These interruptions occur even when there is no harsh weather directly affecting my area. I am concerned about the safety of my electronic devices and the potential risk of sparks or fire due to the sudden power surges. This issue seems to be a new development as in previous years we did not encounter such problems. I have spoken to my neighbors, who are also encountering similar situations. Your assistance in resolving this matter would be greatly appreciated. Thank you. Mike P. - [redacted] S. Shades Crest Rd, Helena, AL [redacted]

On 8/24, I paid $[redacted] towards my electric bill. However, on Wednesday, my power got cut off while I was cleaning. After contacting them, I found out my payment was allegedly returned to my account, but it wasn't. I ended up paying another $[redacted] on 9/2, but my power is still off for the second week now. It's frustrating to see that some customers are allowed to build up large balances before getting disconnected, unlike my situation. The website now indicates I need to pay an additional $[redacted] for reconnection. I'm doing my best to stay on top of my bills, but the lack of cooperation and service from the company is making it extremely challenging.

There is currently a power outage, and Alabama Power has informed us that our power will not be restored until 03/05/23. I have food worth over $1,[redacted] that will spoil if the power is not turned back on soon. I need to speak with someone to understand the situation and inform them that a tree fell near my house, causing damage to the power line. The neighbors removed the fallen tree blocking the road, but they might not realize the line was affected where the tree hit it. There are no obvious signs of damage to the line from the outside.

My name is S. King, and I live at [redacted] Ridgecrest St, Montgomery AL. My power is currently off due to non-payment, which I understand, but given the urgency of the situation, I rely on a breathing machine for asthma treatment, and I have 7 children between the ages of 7 and 17. The heat in our home is becoming unbearable, especially after receiving an extreme heat advisory via phone and email. Is there any possibility of receiving temporary power to ensure the safety and well-being of my children and myself? Your assistance would be greatly appreciated.