Moving house and your energy supplier

Moving house is stressful enough without worrying about your energy supply. Getting your gas and electricity sorted at both your old and new properties is crucial to avoid unexpected bills and service interruptions. This guide walks you through the essential steps to manage your energy accounts, ensuring a smooth transition and helping you find the best deal for your new home.

Moving house can be a whirlwind, but sorting your energy doesn't have to add to the stress. Fuse Energy makes managing your energy simple, whether you're moving in or out. Click here to get started.

Before you move house

Preparation is key to a smooth energy transition. A few simple steps before moving day can save you time and hassle later on.

Notify your current energy supplier

Tell your current energy supplier you're moving as soon as you have a confirmed date. Citizens Advice recommends giving at least 48 hours' notice. This allows them time to prepare your final bill and discuss options for your new property, though you are not obliged to stay with them. If you're on a fixed tariff, check your contract for any exit fees, as these might apply if you're leaving early. However, if you are in the last 49 days of your fixed-term contract, suppliers cannot charge an exit fee.

Understand your final bill

Your final bill from your old property will be based on your usage up to your move-out date. Ensure your supplier has your new address so they can send this to you. It's wise to check if your account is in credit or debit before you move, so you know what to expect. You typically have 28 days to pay your final bill.

Check your meter type

Knowing your meter type (standard, smart, or prepayment) at your old home can help you prepare. If you have a smart meter, leave the in-home display unit at the property for the next occupants. If your new home has a prepayment meter, you are not responsible for any previous occupants' debts. However, it is still important to contact the supplier immediately upon moving in to ensure your account is set up correctly and you are not charged for their usage.

On moving day

Moving day is hectic, but taking a few minutes to manage your energy meters can prevent future disputes.

Take final meter readings at your old home

On the day you move out, take a final meter reading for both your gas and electricity meters. If you have a manual meter, it's a good idea to record the readings and take a photo as proof. Submit these readings to your current supplier. This ensures your final bill is accurate and you're not charged for energy you didn't use. Smart meters automatically send readings to your supplier, so manual readings are not typically required for billing accuracy.

Identify the energy supplier at your new home

When you move into a new property, you'll automatically be supplied by the existing energy providers. You can usually find out who supplies the gas and electricity by checking previous utility bills left by the former occupants, or by asking the landlord or estate agent. If that's not possible, you can use online tools or phone services:

• For electricity: Use the National Grid's "What's My Supplier?" tool to find your electricity supplier. If you need to identify your Distribution Network Operator (DNO), you can use the Energy Networks Association (ENA) postcode search tool or call 105.
• For gas: Use the "Find My Supplier" online tool to identify your gas supplier.

Take opening meter readings at your new home

As soon as you arrive at your new property, locate the gas and electricity meters and take opening readings. Again, take photos for your records. Provide these readings to the existing suppliers at your new home. This ensures you're only billed for the energy you use from your move-in date.

After you move in

Once you're settled, it's time to formalise your energy accounts and consider your options.

Set up an account with the existing supplier

When you move into a new property, you'll automatically be placed on a "deemed contract" with the existing supplier. This is typically their Standard Variable Tariff, which can often be more expensive. Contact them with your opening meter readings and move-in date to set up your account.

Compare energy tariffs for your new home

You have the right to switch energy suppliers at your new property, even if you initially set up an account with the existing supplier. Comparing gas and electric prices is a smart move, as you could find a cheaper energy supplier UK-wide. Comparison sites can help you compare electricity price and compare energy price for dual fuel or single fuel tariffs. When settling into your new home, you might also consider long-term energy efficiency improvements, such as understanding the running costs of an air source heat pump to reduce your overall energy consumption.

Switch energy supplier for a better deal

Don't settle for the default tariff. Once your account is set up with the existing supplier, you can immediately begin looking for a better deal. Switching energy supplier can often lead to significant savings. Ofgem encourages households to switch to keep the market competitive. The average UK home uses around 2,500 kWh of electricity and 9,500 kWh of gas per year, according to Ofgem's medium Typical Domestic Consumption Values (TDCVs), which were updated effective 1 July 20261. Knowing these averages can help you compare energy deals more effectively.

Managing your energy account during a move

Taking control of your energy accounts during a move can feel empowering.

Using online accounts and apps

Many energy suppliers, including Fuse Energy, offer online accounts and mobile apps. These can be invaluable for submitting meter readings, checking your usage, managing your account details, and viewing bills. A digital-first platform can simplify the energy transition, giving you control and peace of mind.

Contacting customer service

Sometimes, you'll need to speak to a human. For your current supplier, finding the correct contact details is important. Most suppliers provide various contact methods, including phone, email, and online chat.

Understanding your rights and responsibilities

Ofgem regulates energy suppliers in Great Britain and provides guidance on consumer rights during a house move. You have the right to a continuous supply of energy, accurate billing, and the ability to switch suppliers. Citizens Advice offers impartial advice on energy issues, including moving home and switching suppliers. They can also provide guidance on air source heat pump efficiency for those looking to upgrade their heating systems.

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to switch energy supplier?

Switching energy supplier typically takes up to five working days. You also have a 14-day cooling-off period after agreeing to a switch, during which you can cancel without penalty. If your switch is delayed or incorrect, you may be entitled to compensation from your supplier.

What if I don't know who supplies my new home's energy?

If you don't know who supplies my new home's energy, you can find out by using online tools. For electricity, use the National Grid's "What's My Supplier?" tool. For gas, use the "Find My Supplier" online tool.

Can I take my smart meter with me when I move?

No, smart meters are fixed to the property and should be left behind for the next occupants. If you have an in-home display unit, that should also remain at the property. Your new home may already have a smart meter, or you can request one from your new supplier.

Moving house is your opportunity to make a powerful choice about your energy. By following these steps, you can master your energy transition, ensuring a smooth move and setting up your new home with the best possible energy deal.

Managing your energy bills should be clear and easy to understand. Fuse Energy focuses on straightforward pricing, so you can see exactly what you're paying without unnecessary complexity. If you have a smart meter, you can view detailed usage data through the app or website, helping you understand how you can lower your bills. If you don't have a smart meter, Fuse Energy can upgrade your non-smart meter, completely for free. This can make it easier to track spending and make informed decisions about your energy use. Our 24/7 human support team is always on hand with fast response times of under 5 minutes whenever you need help. Click here to switch to Fuse Energy today. Find out about our mission by clicking here.

References

1. Ofgem. Review of Typical Domestic consumption Values