Moving into a new rented home can be a busy time, and sorting out your energy supply is a key task. This guide offers clear, actionable advice to help new tenants manage their energy setup smoothly.
Sorting your energy supply should be straightforward, not stressful. Fuse Energy aims to simplify the process for new tenants, making it a seamless part of moving home. Click here to switch to Fuse Energy today.
Understanding your rights regarding energy supply in a rented property is the first step to taking control of your bills.
Can a tenant choose their energy supplier?
Yes, in most cases, you can choose your energy supplier. If you are directly responsible for paying your energy bills, you generally have the legal right to choose your own gas and electricity supplier, even in rented accommodation. This right is protected by Ofgem, the UK's energy regulator, and applies whether you are on a fixed-term or rolling tenancy. Your landlord or letting agent should not prevent you from switching without a very good reason.
What if your landlord includes energy bills?
If your tenancy agreement includes energy bills as part of your rent, or if your landlord manages the energy account and pays the bills directly, your ability to switch suppliers is typically restricted. In such scenarios, the energy contract is with your landlord, not directly with you. Always check your tenancy agreement for clarity on who is responsible for utility bills.
Protecting yourself from previous tenants' debt
You are not responsible for the previous tenant's energy debts. To avoid being wrongly charged, take accurate meter readings on the day you move in and keep a record, ideally with a date-stamped photo. Inform the existing supplier (or your new chosen supplier) of these readings immediately. This creates a clear break in responsibility for energy usage.
Setting up your energy supply doesn't have to be complicated. Follow these steps for a smooth transition.
Before you move in
Before you get the keys, review your tenancy agreement to understand your responsibilities regarding energy bills. If you're responsible for them, you can start researching potential suppliers and tariffs.
On moving day: meter readings and supplier identification
On the day you move in, take clear, date-stamped photos of your electricity and gas meters, noting the readings. This is crucial for proving your starting point and avoiding disputes over previous tenants' usage. You'll also need to identify the current energy supplier for the property.
Setting up your new energy account
Once you know who the current supplier is and have your opening meter readings, contact them to set up an account in your name. If you don't actively choose a new supplier, you'll likely be placed on a "deemed" contract, which can be more expensive than other tariffs.
Identifying the existing energy supplier for your new home is straightforward with these tools.
For electricity: National Grid's "what's my supplier?"
To find out who supplies electricity to your property, use National Grid Electricity Distribution's "What's My Supplier?" tool at https://supplier.nationalgrid.co.uk/. You'll need your postcode to use this online service.
For gas: find my supplier
For gas supply information, the "Find My Supplier" website, run by Xoserve, is the go-to resource. Enter your postcode at https://www.findmysupplier.energy/, and it will tell you who your gas supplier is.
Contacting your landlord or letting agent
If the online tools don't provide a clear answer, or if you prefer, your landlord or letting agent should be able to tell you who the current energy suppliers are for both gas and electricity.
Once you've identified the current supplier, you can decide whether to stay with them or switch to a better deal.
Comparing tariffs and deals
It's wise to compare different energy tariffs and suppliers to find one that suits your needs and budget. Websites like Uswitch and MoneySavingExpert's Cheap Energy Club can help you compare options. Consider factors like unit rates, standing charges, contract length, and customer service.
The switching process
Switching energy suppliers usually takes around five working days. Your new supplier will handle the entire process, including contacting your old supplier. You won't experience any interruption to your energy supply during the switch.
What happens if your switch is delayed?
If your energy switch is delayed beyond the agreed-upon date without a valid reason, you could be entitled to compensation. Ofgem rules state that if your switch is delayed, your new supplier must pay you £40 if the switch takes longer than five working days.
Taking control of your energy usage and bills is an ongoing process.
Understanding your bills and usage
Regularly check your energy bills to ensure they are accurate and reflect your actual usage. Submit meter readings frequently, especially if you don't have a smart meter, to avoid estimated bills. The average UK home uses around 2,500 kWh of electricity and 9,500 kWh of gas per year.
Smart meters for renters
As a tenant, you have the right to request a smart meter from your energy supplier, and your landlord cannot unreasonably refuse. Smart meters send readings automatically, providing more accurate bills and helping you track your energy consumption. Note that the Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) is being phased out, with the signal switched off from 30 June 2025. This means many older meters will need to be replaced with smart meters.
What to do when you move out
When you plan to move out, inform your energy supplier(s) in advance. Take final meter readings on your moving-out day, just as you did when you moved in, and provide these to your supplier to ensure you only pay for the energy you used.
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.
