Lucy,(posted 8552 days ago)It's actually far from clear if the six year or the twelve year rule applies in cases where the mortgage deed is quite old. When was your mortgage deed drafted? 1989?
Whatever you do, put Abbey to 'strict proof' of the claim. Do not admit the debt, and do not agree to settle (in my opinion) until they have proved to you and your friend that you do indeed have a liabilty for a debt. This is your right.
Ask to see a copy of the mortage deed. Ask to see a copy of the MIG. If Abbey says no, ask youselves why. Read the HRP (this site), especially the Repossession section, to help yourselves ask 'Why'.
Don't forget, Abbey would have to supply this docmentation should it ever issue a writ against you.
There might also be an issue of estoppel (see further up this thread.)
Also, don't let Abbey invade your privacy. There have been reports of some lenders contacting people at work, especially Service Personnel, presumably to try to embarrass them into making offers of settlement quickly. I find this, personally, quite disgusting. I would like to see a few of the lenders' directors getting off their backsides and trying active service.
Keep in touch with Q&A. Either this thread or start a new one.
Good luck.
Good luck.