--- title: "Setting up bills when renting a home" description: "Setting up bills when renting in the UK? Learn how to identify your responsibilities, take meter readings, and set up your energy, water." url: "https://www.fuseenergy.com/blog/setting-up-bills-when-renting-uk" updated: "2026-10-19" --- # Setting up bills when renting a home Moving into a new rental property involves more than just unpacking boxes; it means taking control of your household bills. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to identify, set up, and manage your utilities, council tax, and other services, helping you settle into your new home with confidence. Managing your energy bills should be straightforward, even when renting. Fuse Energy offers clear pricing and an intuitive app to help you track your usage from day one, giving you greater control over your energy spending. Click [here](https://www.fuseenergy.com/app/boarding/premises) to switch to Fuse Energy today. ## Understanding your bill responsibilities Knowing which bills you are responsible for is the first step to managing your new home's finances. ### Tenancy agreement basics Your tenancy agreement is the definitive document outlining your financial obligations as a renter. It should clearly state which bills, if any, are included in your rent and which you are expected to pay separately. Always read this document carefully before signing to avoid any surprises. ### What bills are typically included? While most tenants are responsible for their own bills, some tenancy agreements, particularly in shared houses or student accommodation, may include certain costs within the monthly rent. This could cover broadband, water, or even energy. If bills are included, ensure this is explicitly stated in your tenancy agreement. Some agreements might also include a "fair usage clause", meaning your landlord could charge extra if your consumption exceeds a specified limit. ### Bills you are always responsible for Unless your tenancy agreement states otherwise, you will typically be responsible for utility bills (gas, electricity, water), Council Tax, and a TV Licence. Contents insurance is also advisable, though optional. ## Setting up energy bills Energy bills are often one of the largest outgoings after rent, making their setup a priority. ### Taking opening meter readings On your move-in day, locate your gas and electricity meters and take clear, timestamped photos of the readings. These opening meter readings are crucial to ensure you are only charged for the energy you use, not for consumption by previous tenants. Note the date and time alongside the readings. ### Identifying your energy suppliers You will be on a "deemed contract" with the existing energy suppliers for the property when you move in. You need to identify who these suppliers are. * **For electricity**: Use the "What's My Supplier?" tool on the National Grid website. Alternatively, you can call 105 for free to be connected to your local Distribution Network Operator (DNO), who can help identify your network operator for power cuts or emergencies. * **For gas**: Use the "Find My Supplier" service, which only requires your postcode. This tool will also provide your Meter Point Reference Number (MPRN). > **What is the average energy usage for a UK home?** > > The average UK home uses around 2,500 kWh of electricity and 9,500 kWh of gas per year. These figures, known as Typical Domestic Consumption Values (TDCVs), are set by Ofgem and are effective from 1 July 2026. They help provide a benchmark for energy use. ### Switching to a new energy provider Once you know who the current suppliers are, you can contact them to set up an account in your name. You are usually placed on their Standard Variable Tariff, which might not be the cheapest option. This is a good opportunity to compare deals from different providers to find a tariff that suits your needs and potentially save money. ### Smart meters and your rental property Smart meters can simplify managing your energy usage by sending automatic readings to your supplier. If your new property has an older meter type, such as a Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) meter, be aware that these are being phased out. The industry-wide switch-off of the RTS signal began on 30 June 2025. If you have an RTS meter, your current energy supplier should contact you to arrange a free smart meter replacement to avoid disruption to your heating and hot water. ## Water, council tax, and other essentials Beyond energy, several other crucial bills need your attention. ### Notifying your water company You cannot choose your water supplier in the UK, as it's assigned based on your property's location. You need to inform the existing water company that you have moved in. You can check which company covers your new location using the Water UK postcode checker. It's advisable to notify them up to 30 days before your move or within 90 days afterwards. If your new home has a water meter, take a reading as soon as you move in. ### Registering for council tax Council Tax is a mandatory local government tax that funds public services. You are generally responsible for paying Council Tax directly to your local authority. To register, find your local council using the GOV.UK postcode lookup and complete their online moving-in form. You'll need your new address, move-in date, previous address, and details of all adults living in the property. Councils typically charge Council Tax from your move-in date. You can usually pay in 10 monthly instalments, and discounts may apply, such as a 25% reduction for single occupancy. ### Your TV Licence obligations A TV Licence is a legal requirement if anyone in your household watches or records live television, or streams programmes on BBC iPlayer. The responsibility for a TV Licence usually falls to the tenant, unless your tenancy agreement explicitly states the landlord is responsible. If you are in a shared property with a joint tenancy agreement, one TV Licence typically covers all devices in the property. However, if each tenant has a separate tenancy agreement, each tenant watching TV in their room will need their own licence. ### Setting up broadband and phone services Setting up broadband should be one of the first things you arrange, as it can take the longest to activate. Research providers that serve your new address and compare deals. If you're lucky, no new infrastructure will be needed, but if it is, you'll need your landlord's permission for any installation. ## Managing your bills effectively Once your bills are set up, effective management can help you stay on top of your finances. ### Budgeting and payment methods Consider setting up Direct Debits for regular payments to ensure bills are paid on time and to spread costs evenly throughout the year. Many suppliers offer apps that allow you to track your usage and manage your account, providing greater clarity and control over your spending. ### Comparing deals and saving money Regularly compare deals for energy and broadband. The market for these services is competitive, and switching providers can often lead to significant savings. Keep an eye on your usage patterns; understanding when and how you use energy can help you choose more flexible tariffs or adjust your habits to save money. ### What to do if you have a problem If you encounter issues with your bills or suppliers, contact them directly to resolve the problem. If you remain dissatisfied, you can escalate your complaint to the Energy Ombudsman for energy-related issues or the Consumer Council for Water (CCW) for water issues. Citizens Advice also offers free, impartial advice on energy and other consumer matters. ## Moving out: closing your accounts When your tenancy ends, you'll need to close your accounts to avoid being charged for services after you've left. ### Final meter readings and notifications Before you move out, take final meter readings for gas and electricity, again with timestamped photos. Notify your energy suppliers, water company, and local council of your exact move-out date. Provide them with a forwarding address for your final bills. ### Ensuring a smooth transition Inform your energy supplier of your move-out date. For water, notify them up to 30 days before your move. This ensures a smooth transition and prevents you from being charged for the next tenant's usage. Managing your energy bills effectively is key to a smooth tenancy. Fuse Energy offers clear pricing and an intuitive app to help you track your usage and understand your bills from day one. Our customer support team is available via in-app chat and email to assist with any energy bill challenges, offering peace of mind and empowering you to gain control over your energy bills. Click [here](https://www.fuseenergy.com/app/boarding/premises) to switch to Fuse Energy today. --- Rates, availability, and regional off-peak windows change. Check the source page for current terms. **Disclaimer** For the avoidance of doubt, this article is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal or financial advice. The author and/or Fuse Energy shall not be responsible for any losses arising out of any reliance on the information contained herein.