Do I have to pay unpaid advances for heating costs from tenants?

Questioner

I had rented my previous home to a couple. They paid the rent to me. I paid the municipal taxes myself. They arranged the gas/water/electricity themselves. I have sold this home since 15 February 2019. Last February 2022 (three years after the sale) I received a letter from a bailiff stating that the tenants had not paid any advances for heating costs for a period and that because I was the owner of the home I was therefore held liable for the outstanding payments (more than € 1150). I immediately called the bailiff to ask why I only heard about an arrears after 3 years. Even at the notarial transfer in February 2019, no reports of arrears were received. I gave the bailiff the address details of the former tenants (with their permission, by the way). Can the bailiff collect the arrears from me?

Lawyer

No, he cannot do that because you were not the contracting party, if all goes well. Unless the contract for the supply of energy was entered into by yourself. If the bailiff persists and you are summoned, please contact us. I have done and won this type of case before.

Questioner

Good afternoon Lieke, Thanks again for your answer! The bailiff has again been unable to contact/agree with my ex-tenants and is now coming back to me. What can/should I do? What can you do for me? Happy New Year in advance! Greetings Manuel dos Santos