Choosing your energy supplier as a new tenant

Moving into a new rented home means sorting out your energy supply. Taking control of your gas and electricity from day one can save you money and prevent unexpected bills. This guide walks you through your rights, how to identify your current suppliers, and the simple steps to switch to a tariff that suits your new living situation.

Sorting out your energy as a new tenant can be straightforward with the right support. Fuse Energy offers clear pricing and easy management through our app, helping you settle into your new home without energy worries. Click here to get started.

Understanding your rights as a tenant

As a tenant, you have more control over your energy supply than you might think. Knowing your rights is the first step to making informed choices and avoiding costly default options.

Can a tenant choose their energy supplier?

Yes, tenants generally have the legal right to choose their energy supplier, even if your landlord has a preferred provider or a specific company supplied the property previously. This right is protected by Ofgem, the energy regulator, which sets rules to ensure consumers, including tenants, can switch suppliers freely. This means you're not tied to the previous occupant's supplier or your landlord's choice.

Landlord's role versus tenant's responsibility

While your landlord is responsible for ensuring the property has a safe and functional energy supply, choosing the actual supplier and tariff typically falls to you as the tenant. Your landlord might have a preferred supplier for administrative reasons, or they might even pay for energy as part of your rent (common in some student accommodations or all-inclusive bills). However, unless your tenancy agreement explicitly states that energy supply is included in your rent or managed by the landlord, you are usually responsible for setting up and managing your own energy accounts. It's always best to clarify this with your landlord or letting agent when you move in.

First steps when moving in

The moment you get the keys to your new home, there are two crucial energy tasks to tackle immediately. These steps are vital for accurate billing and a smooth transition.

Taking initial meter readings

On the day you move into your new rented property, locate your gas and electricity meters and take clear, accurate readings. Note the date and time you took them, and ideally, take a photo of each meter as proof. These initial readings mark the start of your responsibility for energy consumption at the property. They prevent you from being charged for the previous tenant's usage and ensure the outgoing tenant isn't overcharged. If you have a smart meter, it might send readings automatically, but it's still wise to take a manual reading for your records.

Identifying your current energy supplier (gas and electricity)

You'll need to know who currently supplies your new home's energy to inform them of your arrival and eventually switch. There are official online tools to help you find this information quickly:

• For gas supply: Use the Find My Supplier website. You'll need your postcode to identify your gas supplier.
• For electricity supply: Use the National Grid's "What's My Supplier?" tool. Again, your postcode will help you find out who supplies your electricity.

If these tools don't immediately provide the answer, or if you don't have access to the internet, you can also check recent utility bills left at the property (if any) or ask your landlord or letting agent.

Navigating deemed contracts

When you move into a new property, you don't automatically get to choose your tariff with the existing supplier. Instead, you're usually placed on a "deemed contract."

These contracts are a legal necessity to ensure you always have an energy supply, but they are rarely the most cost-effective option. They usually come with standard variable rates, which can be higher than fixed-rate deals or other tariffs available on the market.

Why you should switch from a deemed contract

Remaining on a deemed contract means you're likely paying more for your energy than you need to. Energy suppliers often reserve their most competitive rates for customers who actively choose a tariff. By switching away from a deemed contract, you can:

• Save money: Find a tariff with lower unit rates or standing charges that better suits your usage habits.
• Gain control: Choose a contract length (fixed or variable) and payment method that works for you.
• Access better deals: Many suppliers offer incentives or better rates for new customers.

The average UK home uses around 2,500 kWh of electricity and 9,500 kWh of gas per year, so even small differences in unit rates can add up significantly over time.

Switching energy suppliers: a step-by-step process

Switching energy suppliers might seem daunting, but it's a straightforward process designed to be quick and hassle-free.

Comparing tariffs and providers

Once you know your current suppliers and have your initial meter readings, you can start comparing tariffs. Websites like Uswitch Energy and Money Saving Expert Energy Saver offer comparison tools that allow you to input your estimated usage (or typical usage for your property type) and postcode to see available deals. Look at:

• Unit rates: The cost per kilowatt-hour (kWh) for gas and electricity.
• Standing charges: A daily fixed fee, regardless of how much energy you use.
• Contract length: Fixed tariffs lock in prices for a set period, usually between 12 and 18 months, while variable tariffs can change with market conditions.
• Exit fees: Some fixed tariffs charge a fee if you leave before the contract ends.
• Customer service reputation: Check reviews for reliability and support.

Initiating your switch

Once you've chosen a new energy supplier and tariff, you can initiate the switch directly through the comparison website or by contacting your chosen supplier. You'll typically need to provide:

• Your new address.
• Your initial meter readings.
• Your bank details for Direct Debit payments.

Your new supplier will handle most of the switching process, contacting your old suppliers and arranging the transfer. This usually takes up to 5 working days, and your energy supply won't be interrupted during the switch.

Finalising your energy account

On the day your switch goes live, take final meter readings. Submit these to your old supplier for your final bill and to your new supplier as your opening readings. This ensures a seamless transition and accurate billing from both ends. Your old supplier will send you a final bill, and your new supplier will start billing you based on your new tariff and readings.

Managing your energy in your new home

Setting up your energy supply is just the beginning. Ongoing management ensures you stay on top of your usage and bills.

Submitting regular meter readings

Even with a smart meter, it's a good habit to submit regular meter readings (e.g., monthly) to your supplier. This ensures your bills are based on actual consumption rather than estimates, preventing large catch-up bills or overpayments. If you have a traditional meter, regular manual submissions are essential.

Understanding your bill and payments

Take time to understand your energy bill. It typically breaks down your usage, unit rates, standing charges, and any payments made. Most suppliers offer online accounts or apps where you can track your usage, view bills, and manage payments. If anything on your bill looks incorrect, contact your supplier immediately. Fuse, for example, offers an all-in-one app for transparent energy management and human customer support to help new tenants navigate any questions about their supply.

We believe in making energy transparent and easy to understand. Learn more about our mission to provide a better energy experience by clicking here.