Checkers costing me more with their lack of service

I live in Newcastle KZN. I work at the hospital and I don't have time to go to the municipality. So I pay my electricity water and rates thru pick and pay or Checkers. This month I paid on the 3rd of March. It's due by the 6th. But the municipality only received my payment via Checkers on the 13th. 10 days later. And my power my was cut off last week. Just happens when I was out of town. So I return to no power. Rotting food in my freezer and water puddles from the fridge. I mean seriously...if Checkers are going to have these additional services then at least do it properly. When I contacted the municipality they said that checkers are slow to reimburse them and now not only do I have a lot of spoilt food but also a hefty reconnection fee. And they not sure when I'll be reconnected...whether it will be today or tomorrow. This is just not on Checkers. Needless to say I would rather not use your stores as there are plenty other options.