Moving house can be both exciting and overwhelming, with a myriad of tasks demanding your attention. One crucial aspect that often gets overlooked in the chaos is switching your gas and electricity services to your new address. Don’t fret! This guide will walk you through your options and the practical steps to make the transition smooth.
What do you need to do with gas and electricity when moving house?
When moving house, gas and electricity are two of the utilities you’ll need to organise. You don’t necessarily have to stay with the same energy supplier when you move, so your move can also be a good opportunity to compare prices and consider changing provider.
Before you leave your current home, take a meter reading and keep a note of the date you moved out. You should then give the reading to your current supplier and provide your new address so that they can send you a final bill.
When you arrive at your new home, take another meter reading as soon as possible. Contact the existing energy supplier for the property and give them the reading and your move-in date. This helps make sure you aren’t charged for energy that was used before you moved in.
Can you switch electricity when moving house?
Yes, you can switch electricity supplier when you move house. You don’t have to stay with the supplier that is already providing energy to your new property.
When you first move into a property, you will normally need to contact the existing supplier to make sure the account is in your name. You can then compare tariffs and decide whether you want to stay with that supplier or arrange an electricity switch to another provider.
It’s worth checking the available tariffs before making a decision, particularly if your new home has different energy requirements from your previous property. Your electricity usage could be different because of the size of the home, heating system, appliances and how many people live there.
How do you switch gas and electricity to a new supplier?
If you want to switch gas and electricity, you can compare the tariffs available at your new address and choose a supplier that offers a suitable deal.
You don’t necessarily need to arrange the switch before moving in. In fact, making sure you have contacted the existing supplier and provided your meter readings first can help establish exactly when your responsibility for the property’s energy starts.
Once you’ve chosen a new provider, they will normally arrange the switch for you. You should still keep your meter readings and final bills from the old supplier until everything has been settled.
If you are switching both gas and electricity, you may also want to compare dual-fuel deals with separate gas and electricity tariffs. The cheapest option will depend on your circumstances, so it can be worth comparing the overall cost rather than assuming one option will always be better.
How do you change electricity provider when moving house?
If you’re wondering how to change electricity provider, the process is generally quite straightforward. Find out who currently supplies the property, take a meter reading when you move in and then compare the tariffs available at your address.
If you find a different supplier you would prefer to use, you can arrange the switch with the new provider. Keep a record of your meter readings and the date of the switch so you have a clear record if there is any disagreement about your bills.
Moving house can therefore be a useful time to review your energy arrangements rather than simply accepting whatever tariff you inherit at the new property.
When should you switch gas and electricity when moving house?
It’s a good idea to start thinking about your energy supply before you move, particularly if you want to compare suppliers or tariffs. However, the exact process can depend on the circumstances of the property and the supplier currently providing the energy.
The most important things are to record your meter readings, tell the relevant suppliers when you move and make sure the energy account at your new home is set up correctly.
Once you’ve moved, you can then compare your options and decide whether to remain with the existing supplier or change electricity provider and, if appropriate, your gas supplier too.
Stay with Your Existing Providers and Inform Them of the Change
The Familiar Route: If you’ve been content with your current gas and electricity providers, sticking with them might seem like the path of least resistance. The good news is that you can easily transfer your services to your new address.
- Inform Them in Advance: Most providers appreciate a heads-up about your impending move. Give them a call or visit their website to inform them of your change of address and the date you’ll be moving. This allows them to prepare for the switch and ensures uninterrupted service.
- Check Service Availability: Before assuming your current provider operates in your new area, it’s wise to check service availability. Some providers have specific coverage areas, and you want to be sure you’re still in their service range.
- Review Your Plan: Moving is an excellent time to reassess your energy needs. If your current plan doesn’t suit your new lifestyle or if there are better deals available, this might be the opportunity to make a change.
Explore Options: Switching Providers
A Fresh Start: Moving is a great excuse to reevaluate your energy options. Here’s how you can navigate the process of switching providers:
- Compare Deals: Use online comparison tools to explore different providers and their plans. Look for packages that align with your consumption patterns and offer competitive rates.
- Research Customer Reviews: A provider’s reputation matters. Take some time to read customer reviews to get a sense of their service quality, responsiveness, and reliability.
- Consider Renewable Energy: If sustainability is a priority, explore providers offering green energy options. Many companies now provide electricity generated from renewable sources, contributing to a cleaner environment.
Where to Look When Switching
Navigating the Maze: The energy market can be a maze of options, so here are key places to look when making decisions:
- Comparison Websites: Online tools like Compare the Market, Uswitch, or Energy Helpline allow you to compare various gas and electricity plans effortlessly. These platforms often provide exclusive deals and discounts.
- Provider Websites: Visit the websites of potential providers to explore their plans and promotions directly. Sometimes, exclusive online offers are available.
- Customer Service: Don’t underestimate the value of good customer service. Check reviews, and if possible, contact the providers directly with any questions you may have. A responsive and helpful customer support team can make a significant difference.
The Switching Process: Giving Final Meter Readings and More
Crossing the Finish Line: Once you’ve decided whether to stay or switch, here’s a step-by-step guide to completing the process:
- Final Meter Readings: Before leaving your current residence, take final meter readings for both gas and electricity. This ensures accurate billing and prevents you from paying for energy consumed after you’ve left.
- Inform Your Current Provider: Notify your current provider of your final meter readings and moving date. This will prompt them to generate your final bill, which you should settle promptly to avoid any issues.
- Provide New Address to Current Provider (if staying): If you choose to stay with your current provider, provide them with your new address and move-in date. This helps in the seamless transfer of services to your new home.
- Set Up with New Provider (if switching): If you’re switching providers, inform the chosen company of your move-in date. They will coordinate the activation of services and ensure everything is up and running when you arrive.
- Take Meter Readings at New Property: Upon moving into your new home, take initial meter readings. This is crucial for accurate billing and ensures you’re only paying for the energy you consume.
Switch Gas and Electricity Moving House: In Summary
By following these practical steps, you can navigate the process of switching gas and electricity seamlessly when moving house. Whether you decide to stay with your current providers or embark on a new energy journey, a well-planned approach will make this aspect of your move stress-free. Happy moving!
