Robmillion, I am certain you DON'T have to pay by DD and I would strongly suggest you DON'T do it. I hear endless stories of money still coming out of an account 2,3 or 4 months after the contract/lease has expired.
I'd report it to Consumer Affairs and ask for advise.
You can also take the comments on this forum as a guide to why you wouldn't take DD.
"What's the big deal? You have to pay the rent anyway."
