Setting up gas and electricity in a new home

Moving into a new home is an exciting time, but sorting out your gas and electricity supply can feel like another task on an already long list. The good news is that setting up your energy doesn't have to be complicated. This guide breaks down the essential steps, from notifying your old supplier to getting connected in your new place, including specific advice for new builds and rented properties.

Managing your energy in a new home should be straightforward. Fuse Energy offers clear pricing and an easy-to-use app to help you track your usage from day one. If you're looking for a modern energy experience, click here to see how simple switching can be.

Before you move: preparing your energy supply

Getting organised before moving day can prevent headaches later on. A little preparation ensures a smoother transition for your energy accounts.

Notifying your current suppliers

When you know your moving date, it's important to inform your current gas and electricity suppliers. They typically require at least 48 hours' notice, but ideally, aim to give them 7 to 14 days. This allows them enough time to process your move-out request and prepare your final bill. If you're switching to a new supplier like Fuse Energy for your new home, your new supplier will usually handle the notification to your previous one, but you'll still need to provide final meter readings.

Understanding your final bill

Your current suppliers will send you a final bill for the energy you've used up to your move-out date. This bill will be based on the final meter readings you provide. Make sure your contact details are up to date with them so you receive this bill promptly and can settle any outstanding balance.

Planning for your new home's energy

While you can't set up new accounts until you've moved in, you can start thinking about your energy needs. Consider whether your new home has a smart meter, what type of heating it uses, and if you have any preferences for green tariffs.

Moving day: essential energy tasks

Moving day is hectic, but taking a few minutes for energy-related tasks can save you from billing disputes down the line.

Taking final meter readings

On the day you move out of your old property, take a clear photo of your gas and electricity meters, noting down the readings. These final readings are crucial for your supplier to calculate your last bill accurately, ensuring you don't pay for energy used by the next occupants.

Identifying your new home's suppliers

When you move into a new property, you automatically inherit the existing energy suppliers. It's important to identify who these are as soon as possible.

• For electricity: You can use National Grid's "What's My Supplier?" tool online. You'll usually need your postcode.
• For gas: Use the "Find My Supplier" website. Again, your postcode is typically all you need.

If you can't find the supplier using these tools, or if the property is a new build, you might need to contact the local Distribution Network Operator (DNO) for electricity. You can find your DNO using the Energy Networks Association (ENA) postcode lookup tool.

Taking initial meter readings

As soon as you gain access to your new home, take initial meter readings for both gas and electricity. Just like with your old property, photograph the meters and note the readings. These readings mark the start of your energy consumption at the new address and are vital for your first bill.

After you move: setting up your new accounts

Once you're in, it's time to formally set up your energy accounts. This ensures you're correctly billed from day one.

Contacting your new suppliers

Get in touch with the existing gas and electricity suppliers you identified at your new property. Inform them you've moved in, provide your initial meter readings, and set up an account in your name. You'll typically be placed on a "deemed contract" with their Standard Variable Tariff until you choose otherwise.

Choosing the right tariff

Once your account is set up, you can review the tariff you're on. It's a good idea to compare different energy deals to see if you can find a more suitable or cheaper option. You have a 14-day cooling-off period from when you submit your switch request (the day the contract is agreed) during which you can cancel without incurring early exit fees.

Setting up payments

Most energy suppliers prefer Direct Debit payments, as they can sometimes offer a slight discount. Ensure you set up a payment method that works for you to avoid falling behind on bills.

Specific scenarios for setting up energy

Some moving situations have unique requirements when it comes to energy supply.

Setting up gas and electricity in a new build

New build properties often don't have an existing energy supply history, which means you might need to take a few extra steps:

1. Obtain MPAN and MPRN: Your developer should provide you with the Meter Point Administration Number (MPAN) for electricity and the Meter Point Reference Number (MPRN) for gas. These are unique identifiers for your supply points.
2. Contact a supplier: Once you have these numbers, you can contact an energy supplier to set up your accounts. They will use the MPAN and MPRN to connect your property to their supply.
3. First meter readings: Take initial meter readings as soon as you move in, even if the meters are brand new.

Rented properties: what you need to know

If you're renting, your tenancy agreement usually specifies who is responsible for utility bills. In most cases, tenants are responsible for gas and electricity.

• Notify landlord/agent: Inform your landlord or letting agent of your move-in date and provide them with the initial meter readings.
• Supplier choice: Unless your tenancy agreement states otherwise, you usually have the right to choose your own energy supplier and tariff.
• Prepayment meters: If your rented property has a prepayment meter, understand how it works and how to top it up.

First-time setup: a quick guide

Setting up gas and electricity for the first time can seem daunting. Here's a simplified overview:

1. Identify suppliers: Find out who supplies gas and electricity to your new home using the National Grid and Find My Supplier tools.
2. Take readings: Note down your initial meter readings.
3. Contact suppliers: Get in touch with the existing suppliers to open accounts in your name.
4. Compare deals: Once set up, compare tariffs to find a deal that suits you.

Switching energy suppliers: finding the best deal

After you've settled in, it's worth checking if you're on the best energy deal.

When to switch suppliers

You can switch energy suppliers at any time, but it's often easiest to do so shortly after moving in. As mentioned, you have a 14-day cooling-off period from when you submit your switch request, during which you can cancel your new contract without penalty. Even after this period, you can switch if you're on a Standard Variable Tariff, as these usually don't have exit fees.

Comparing energy tariffs

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 (TDCV) effective from 1 July 2026. Use these figures as a benchmark when comparing tariffs to get an idea of potential costs. Comparison websites can help you find the best deals by inputting your estimated usage and postcode. Look at unit rates, standing charges, contract length, and any exit fees.

The switching process

Switching energy suppliers is usually straightforward:

1. Choose a new supplier: Select the tariff and supplier you want to switch to.
2. Provide details: Give your new supplier your address, meter readings, and bank details.
3. New supplier handles it: Your new supplier will manage the switch with your old supplier. This typically takes up to 5 working days. You won't experience any interruption to your supply.

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. Our 24/7 human support team is always on hand with fast response times whenever you need help. Click here to switch to Fuse Energy today. Find out about our mission by clicking here.