At long last I have settled with the utility company and been sent a settlement cheque.
Just to say it was very close to my claim, I did claim for ongoing maintenance and loss of amenity, as well as out of pocket expenses as you suggested. The settlement was quite generous and I am very pleased with it. Even though they state that they don’t accept responsibility ,why else would they give me any money? In the end the pressure from the Ombudsman helped, but I am convinced that your excellent Report tipped it in my favour.