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How to change your energy suppliers when moving house

Feb 13, 2018
How to change your energy suppliers when moving house

With an ever-growing to-do list, we know how stressful moving house can be.

To make the process as hassle-free as possible, we’ve created a handy checklist to handle everything utilities-related when buying a new home.

Contact your current utilities provider

First, you’ll need to give your current energy supplier a call, either via online chat, a web form or by telephone to let them know you’re moving. Make sure you get in touch as soon as possible to set the wheels in motion, and to cross one job off your list. Your energy provider will take note of your moving date and new address, so they know where and when to send a final bill.
 

Take the meter readings

You’ll need to take up-to-date meter readings at your current home before moving, either by taking a picture on your smartphone or simply jotting down the numbers on a notepad. Alternatively, your energy supplier may arrange for a meter reading to be taken by one of their own team. As long as you remember to do this, your final bill will be accurate and you won’t end up paying for energy you haven’t actually used. When you arrive at the new address, you’ll also need to take the meter readings straightaway. Find out who the energy supplier is at your new home, and contact them to provide your details, along with the readings. Startup Stock Photos

Shop around for the best deal

Although you’ll have to open a new account with the current utilities company at your new home, you can still shop around using comparison sites such as uSwitch, GoCompare and Compare the Market. Recommendations from friends and family are also a great way of finding which providers are both cost effective and which ones are helpful – whether that’s through online customer services or through helpful telephone support. If you want to switch, contact your preferred supplier to get the ball rolling. They’ll make the arrangements for you, including telling the existing supplier. The switch can take around three weeks, so you’ll have at least one bill from the existing utility company at your new home.

Get advice on moving house utilities to your new address

If you want to transfer your existing tariff to a new address, it’s worth getting in touch with your utility company to find out if it’s possible. Do this as soon as you can, especially if you’re going to be charged an exit fee for cancelling a fixed term tariff early. They deal with house moves on a regular basis, so it’s worth getting their advice to save you money and hassle.

Don’t know who your new energy supplier is?

If you’re moving to a new build home, you’ll be told who your new energy supplier is by the developer. If you’re unsure, you can use the Energy Networks Association online search tool.
 

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