Set up gas and electric for your new home

Moving into a new home in the UK means you need to set up your gas and electricity supply. Getting this right from the start ensures a smooth transition, avoiding unexpected costs or interruptions to your energy. This guide walks you through the essential steps to efficiently manage your energy setup, making it an empowering move that puts you in control.

Setting up your energy in a new home should be straightforward. With Fuse Energy, you can manage your new account with clear pricing and real-time usage data. Click here to switch to Fuse Energy today.

Your first steps when moving in

The moment you get the keys to your new place, a few immediate actions can save you hassle and money down the line. These initial steps are crucial for accurate billing and setting the stage for choosing the right energy supplier.

Locating your meters

Before anything else, find your gas and electricity meters. They're typically located outside the property in a meter box, often near the front door, or sometimes inside under the stairs, in a utility cupboard, or the garage. Knowing where they are is the first step to understanding your home's energy usage.

Taking initial meter readings

As soon as you move in, take a clear photo of both your gas and electricity meters, noting the date and time. This provides dated proof of your readings, which is vital for ensuring you're only charged for the energy you use from your move-in date. You'll need to provide these readings to the existing supplier to open an account in your name.

Identifying your current energy suppliers

Most properties in the UK will already have an energy supply connected when you move in, even if you haven't chosen a supplier yet. This is usually under a 'deemed contract' with the previous occupant's supplier. To find out who supplies your gas, you can use the Find My Supplier tool online, which requires your postcode. For electricity, you can use National Grid's What's My Supplier? tool. You'll need your Meter Point Reference Number (MPRN) for gas or Meter Point Administration Number (MPAN) for electricity, which can often be found on a previous bill. If you can't find this information, Citizens Advice also offers guidance.

Choosing your new energy supplier

Once you know who currently supplies your energy, you're free to choose a supplier that better suits your needs. You are not obliged to stay with the previous occupant's energy supplier and can switch immediately.

Comparing tariffs and deals

This is your opportunity to compare energy tariffs and find a deal that works for you. Look beyond just the unit rates; consider standing charges, contract length, and any exit fees. Understanding energy tariffs can help you make an informed decision. Online comparison sites can help you weigh up different options from various suppliers.

Considering smart meters

Smart meters can simplify managing your energy. They send readings automatically to your supplier, eliminating the need for manual submissions and providing more accurate bills. If your new home doesn't have smart meters, or if they're not currently connected, many suppliers offer free upgrades. You can also explore a smart meter installation to enhance your energy management.

Special considerations for new builds

New build properties have slightly different considerations. While gas and electricity will be connected, they might be on a temporary 'deemed tariff' set up by the builders, which can be more expensive than a domestic tariff. As soon as you have access to your meter serial numbers, contact the current energy supplier to register as a domestic customer. You can then compare tariffs and switch if desired.

The energy switching process

Switching energy suppliers is often simpler than many people imagine. The process is designed to be straightforward, with your new supplier handling most of the heavy lifting.

Initiating your switch

Once you've chosen a new energy supplier, you can initiate the switch directly with them. They will ask for your personal details, your new address, and your initial meter readings. You won't typically need to contact your old supplier; your new provider will manage the transfer.

Understanding the switching timeline

The energy switching process is now much faster, typically taking up to five working days. During this time, you won't experience any interruption to your supply. Your new supplier will keep you informed of the progress and your switch date. If your switch takes longer than five working days, your new supplier should automatically pay you £40 in compensation.

What happens during the switch?

On the day of the switch, your new supplier will take over your supply. You might be asked for a final meter reading to ensure a seamless handover. If you had credit with your old supplier, it does not transfer to your new account; you will need to contact your previous supplier directly to arrange a refund.

Managing your new energy account

After your switch is complete, managing your new energy account effectively helps you stay on top of your usage and costs.

Setting up payments

Most energy suppliers offer various payment methods, with Direct Debit often being the most common and sometimes offering a slight discount. Set up your preferred payment method promptly to avoid falling behind on bills.

Using your supplier's app and tools

Many modern energy suppliers, like Fuse Energy, provide intuitive apps and online portals to manage your account. These tools can help you submit readings, track your energy usage, view your bills, and understand your consumption patterns. Fuse's app, for instance, simplifies every step of managing your energy, from submitting readings to tracking usage, putting seamless digital control in your hands.

Submitting regular meter readings

Even with smart meters, it's good practice to submit regular meter readings, especially if you want to ensure your bills are as accurate as possible. For a typical UK home, which uses around 2,500 kWh of electricity per year, according to Ofgem, understanding your usage is key to managing your budget.

Common questions about setting up utilities

Moving house often brings a flurry of questions, especially concerning essential services like gas and electricity.

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

If you're unsure who your current gas or electricity supplier is, you can use the Find My Supplier tool for gas or National Grid's What's My Supplier? tool for electricity. These services can help you identify the correct suppliers for your new property. Citizens Advice also provides helpful guidance.

Will my energy be cut off?

No, your energy supply will not be cut off when you move into a new property. The property will have an existing supply, usually under a 'deemed contract' with the previous supplier. You'll continue to receive energy while you identify the supplier and arrange your new account or switch.

How long does it take to set up?

Setting up your energy account and switching suppliers typically takes up to five working days from the point you initiate the switch. However, you can usually open an account with the existing supplier much faster, often within a few days of moving in, by providing your initial meter readings. Starting the process early, ideally within a few days of getting your keys, ensures everything is in place without stress.

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 whenever you need help. Click here to switch to Fuse Energy today. Find out about our mission by clicking here.