Moving house offers a fresh start, and that includes the chance to take control of your home's energy supply. By understanding the process, you can avoid unexpected costs and ensure a smooth transition, turning a potential chore into an opportunity for an energy power play.
Managing your energy when moving home can be straightforward with Fuse Energy. Our digital tools and dedicated support are designed to make the process simple, so you can focus on settling into your new place. Click here to get started with Fuse Energy today.
A well-managed move begins with your current energy supplier. Proactive communication and accurate information are key to avoiding complications and ensuring you only pay for the energy you have used.
Notifying your supplier of your move-out date
Inform your current energy supplier of your move-out date as soon as you know it. Most energy suppliers require at least 48 hours' notice before a move to close an account. This ensures they can prepare your final bill and prevent you from being charged for energy consumed by the next occupants. If you are switching to Fuse Energy for your new home, Fuse will handle the notification to your previous supplier as part of the switching process.
Taking final meter readings on moving day
On the day you move out, take a clear, accurate reading from all your meters (electricity and gas). This is crucial for your final bill. Without an actual reading, your supplier will have to estimate your usage, which could lead to you overpaying or underpaying. Take a photo of the meter readings as proof, noting the date and time. If you are a Fuse Energy customer, you can submit manual readings via the Fuse app within 5 days of your move, or if you have a smart meter, the readings will be picked up automatically.
Understanding your final energy bill
After you have moved out and provided your final meter readings, your previous supplier will send you a final bill. This bill will cover your energy usage up to your move-out date. Ensure the readings on the bill match those you provided. If there is a discrepancy, contact your former supplier immediately to resolve it.
Once you have settled into your new property, turning your attention to the energy supply is a priority. Getting this right from day one can save you hassle and money.
Identifying the existing energy supplier at your new property
When you move into a new home, it is not always obvious who the current energy supplier is. For electricity, you can use the National Grid's "What's My Supplier?" tool. For gas, use the "Find My Supplier" tool. Alternatively, your landlord or estate agent should be able to provide these details.
Taking opening meter readings for accuracy
Just as you took final readings at your old home, take opening meter readings at your new property on the day you move in. This marks the start of your responsibility for energy usage. For Fuse Energy customers, you should submit readings in the app within 5 days of switch-in so billing is correct. Again, photograph the meters with the date and time for your records.
Setting up your new energy account
Once you know who the existing supplier is, contact them to set up an account in your name. If you do not do this promptly, you might be placed on a 'deemed' contract, which can be more expensive than standard tariffs. This initial contact is also an opportunity to discuss tariff options or plan a switch to a preferred supplier.
Moving home is an ideal time to review your energy options and potentially switch to a supplier that better suits your needs.
When to consider switching providers
You can switch energy suppliers at any point, but moving house offers a natural window to compare deals. If you are on a deemed contract with the existing supplier at your new property, you are free to switch immediately without exit fees. This is a prime opportunity to find a tariff that aligns with your energy consumption and values.
Comparing energy deals and tariffs
Comparing energy deals can help you find a more competitive tariff. Websites like Uswitch and MoneySuperMarket allow you to compare gas and electric prices from various suppliers. Ensure you have an estimate of your annual energy usage for your new home to get accurate comparisons. The average UK home uses around 2,500 kWh of electricity per year and around 9,500 kWh of gas per year, according to Ofgem's medium typical domestic consumption values effective from 1 July 20261.
The energy switching process for new homes
Once you have chosen a new supplier and tariff, the switching process is usually straightforward. Your new supplier will handle most of the transfer, contacting your old supplier and ensuring a seamless transition. Under Ofgem's Faster Switching rules, a domestic supplier transfer should complete within up to 5 working days. Your supply will not be interrupted during this time. If the switch is not completed within 5 working days, you may be entitled to £40 in compensation.
Navigating energy supply during a move can raise several questions. Here are answers to some common concerns.
What if I forget to take meter readings?
If you forget to take final meter readings at your old property or opening readings at your new one, your energy supplier will likely issue estimated bills. These estimates are based on previous usage at the property and might not reflect your actual consumption, potentially leading to incorrect charges. It is always best to provide accurate readings to avoid disputes.
What about energy in new build properties?
New build properties often have an initial energy supplier chosen by the developer. You will need to identify this supplier and set up an account. New builds typically come with smart meters already installed, which can simplify meter readings. However, you still have the right to switch to a different supplier once your account is set up. As you settle into your new home, you might also consider energy-efficient upgrades like an air source heat pump or advanced air conditioning installation to enhance your home's comfort and efficiency.
Dealing with energy supply disputes during a move
Should a dispute arise with your energy supplier during your move, first try to resolve it directly with them. If you are not satisfied with their response, you can escalate your complaint to the Energy Ombudsman. Ofgem, the energy market regulator, sets rules for suppliers regarding customer service, billing, and switching processes during a house move, protecting your consumer rights. You might also consider using Royal Mail's Redirection service to ensure important mail reaches your new address.
Moving home is more than just a change of address; it is an opportunity to redefine your relationship with energy. By embracing modern solutions, you can transform the energy transition into a strategic advantage.
Leveraging digital tools for control and ease
Modern energy suppliers are shifting towards digital-first approaches, offering apps and online portals that put control directly in your hands. Fuse's app-first approach, for example, provides digital tools for managing meter readings and account updates, giving customers unparalleled control during a move. This allows you to track usage, manage payments, and update details with ease, making energy management a seamless part of your moving process.
The benefits of a modern energy supplier for movers
Choosing a modern energy supplier means more than just competitive tariffs. It means benefiting from transparent billing, intuitive digital interfaces, and responsive customer support. Fuse offers round-the-clock human support to assist with any energy-related queries during the potentially stressful moving process. This reframes energy management during a move from a chore into an opportunity for a 'power play', aligning with a future of abundant energy and empowering you to make informed decisions for your new home.
Make your move an energy power play. With Fuse Energy, you get clear pricing, real-time usage data, and 24/7 human customer support, all designed to make managing your home's energy simple and stress-free. Switching is quick and easy, so you can focus on enjoying your new home. Click here to switch to Fuse Energy today. Find out more about our mission to make energy abundant by clicking here.
References
- Ofgem. Review of Typical Domestic Consumption Values
