Moving into a new home can be a whirlwind of activity, and sorting out your energy supply might feel like just another item on a long to-do list. Many new homeowners often wonder, "Who supplies my energy?" and "How can I ensure I am getting a fair deal?" This guide will walk you through the essential steps to identify your new property's energy suppliers, set up your accounts, and choose a tariff that works for you.
When you are moving into a new home, managing your energy should be simple. Fuse Energy offers a straightforward way to handle your energy supply, making the transition as smooth as possible. Discover how easy it is to set up your energy account by clicking here.
When you first move into a new property, the energy supply will already be active. This means you will have power from day one, which is a relief. However, it also means you are likely on a "deemed contract" with the existing supplier, which is rarely the most cost-effective option.
Why it is important to act quickly
The moment you move in, the clock starts ticking. The sooner you identify your suppliers and take action, the quicker you can avoid potentially higher costs. Delaying your energy setup can lead to estimated bills and potential disputes down the line.
Deemed contracts and their implications
A deemed contract is a default energy agreement you are placed on when you begin using energy at a new property without having formally agreed to a specific contract with a supplier. These contracts typically involve the supplier's standard variable rates, which are often among the most expensive tariffs available. The good news is that you are not tied into a deemed contract; you can switch away from it at any time without notice or termination fees.
Identifying your existing electricity and gas suppliers is the crucial first step. Without this information, you cannot compare tariffs or switch to a better deal.
Finding your electricity supplier (MPAN and consumer lookups)
To find your electricity supplier, use "What's My Supplier?" (supplier.nationalgrid.co.uk) or contact your local Distribution Network Operator (DNO), which you can find from your postcode via the Energy Networks Association's tool. Either route will give you the supplier and your Meter Point Administration Number (MPAN), the unique identifier for your electricity supply point.
Finding your gas supplier (Find My Supplier and MPRN)
For your gas supplier, the Find My Supplier service (findmysupplier.energy), which sits over the national gas database, is the go-to resource1. Simply enter your postcode, and the service should tell you who supplies your gas. If you cannot find it online, you can contact the Meter Number Helpline. This service can also provide your Meter Point Reference Number (MPRN), the unique identifier for your gas supply point.
What to do if you cannot find your supplier
If online tools or phone lines do not immediately yield results, do not panic.
- Check for mail: Look for any energy bills addressed to "The Occupier" that might have been left at the property.
- Ask previous occupants or agents: The letting agent, landlord, or previous owner might know who the suppliers are.
- Check your smart meter: Some smart meters have an "Account Information" section in their in-home display unit that can show the supplier's name.
Accurate meter readings are your best defence against billing disputes.
- Your move-in day meter readings: On the day you move into your new home, take clear, date-stamped photographs of both your electricity and gas meters. Record the readings carefully. These "opening readings" are crucial because they mark the start of your responsibility for the energy used at the property. If you are switching to Fuse Energy, you will submit your opening readings via the Fuse app (for manual meters) or they will be picked up automatically (for smart meters) after switch-in. Fuse will then forward these readings to your previous supplier.
- Contacting existing suppliers: Once you know who your suppliers are, you will need to inform them you have moved in and provide your opening meter readings. If you are switching to Fuse, you do not need to contact your previous supplier separately to notify them of the move; Fuse handles this through industry switching systems. Your only responsibility is to provide the final meter readings.
- Understanding your initial bill: Your first bill from the existing supplier will be based on your opening meter readings. It is important to review this bill carefully to ensure accuracy. If you had a credit balance with your old supplier, it will not transfer; you will need to contact them directly to arrange a refund to your bank account. Fuse Energy bills are issued on the second working day of each month, covering usage from the first to the last day of the previous month.
Once you are settled in, it is time to look for a better deal. Remaining on a deemed contract means you are likely paying more than you need to. Understanding your energy bills is key to making informed decisions.
Comparing tariffs and deals
Use accredited energy comparison websites to compare available tariffs for your new postcode. Consider factors beyond just price, such as customer service, tariff type (fixed or variable), and any specific benefits like electric vehicle (EV) tariffs if you have an electric car. Ofgem, the UK's energy regulator, oversees the market and protects consumers, ensuring you have rights when switching. You can also use these sites for an energy bills comparison.
The switching process explained
Switching energy suppliers is generally straightforward. Once you choose a new supplier and tariff, they will handle most of the process for you. You will need to provide them with your postcode, current supplier name, and tariff name. The switch typically takes up to five working days2. You also have a 14-day cooling-off period, starting from your switch-in date, during which you can cancel the switch without penalty. Your energy supply will not be interrupted during the switch.
When to switch energy supplier for a new home
You can initiate a switch as soon as you have moved in and registered with the existing supplier. There are no exit fees on a deemed contract, so you are free to switch immediately.
Moving home is an opportunity to rethink your energy. Fuse aims to simplify this process, offering a modern approach to energy management.
The Fuse app: simplicity and control
Fuse offers an all-in-one app designed to make managing your energy account easy. It provides transparency and control, simplifying the process for new movers. You can manage your account, view your usage, and access features that put you in charge of your energy. Fuse connects to your smart meter(s) after switching in, meaning you do not need to submit readings and can view usage live in the app or on the website.
Accessing the cheapest, cleanest energy possible
Fuse is committed to delivering terawatt-hours of the cheapest, cleanest energy possible, aligning with the desire for cost-effective and sustainable energy. We believe in abundance over scarcity, encouraging new homeowners to embrace clean energy without feeling they need to make trade-offs.
Seamless setup for your new home
Fuse's integrated model provides a seamless experience from finding a supplier to managing usage. Our approach aims to rebuild the energy system from scratch, offering a stress-free alternative for new home energy setup. This means less hassle for you, allowing you to focus on settling into your new home.
What if my new home has a smart meter?
If your new home has a smart meter, Fuse will connect to it after you switch in. This means your readings will be sent automatically, and you will not need to submit them manually. You can view your usage live in the Fuse app or on the website.
Can i choose any supplier for my new home?
Generally, yes, you can choose any energy supplier for your new home. You are not obliged to stay with the existing supplier once you have moved in and taken over the supply. If your new property has a prepayment meter, your choice of tariffs might be limited, but you can still switch.
How long does it take to switch energy suppliers?
The switching process typically takes up to five working days. You can also request a later switch date if that suits your plans better. During this time, your energy supply will not be interrupted.
Take the stress out of managing your energy when you move. With Fuse Energy, you get clear pricing, real-time usage data, and a modern energy experience designed around you. Switching takes as little as three minutes, so you can take control of your bills from day one. Click here to switch to Fuse Energy today and start saving. Find out more about our mission to deliver abundant, clean energy by clicking here.
Disclaimer
For the avoidance of doubt, this article is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal or financial advice. The author and/or Fuse Energy shall not be responsible for any losses arising out of any reliance on the information contained herein.
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