Despite being a very straightforward task, many people put off changing their energy supplier after moving house, instead inheriting the previous owner or tenant’s terms, which can result in being on variable rates that do not offer the best market value. We would recommend switching your energy supplier as soon as possible to secure cheaper energy prices, while removing an item from your likely extensive to-do list.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of switching energy suppliers when you move into a new property, including the steps before you move and what to expect when you make the switch. We’ll also outline the things you need to look out for when choosing a new energy deal, and what factors might impact the cost of your monthly tariff.
Key Takeaways:
Notify your current energy supplier at least 48 hours before moving out, and take a meter reading on the day you leave.
You may owe exit fees if you leave your contract early, unless you're within the final seven weeks·
Once you move in, you can compare tariffs by postcode and switch suppliers — the process typically takes 5 working days.
Renters paying bills directly can switch suppliers without landlord permission, provided the account is in their name.
Inform Your Current Energy Supplier Before You Move
Before you leave your current property, you should get in touch with your current supplier to inform them that you are moving, giving them at least 48 hours' notice. They will also ask for your new forwarding address so they can send you your final bill, which you’ll usually have 28 days to settle. You may even be in credit at the end of your contract, meaning you’ll be owed money, so details will be provided on how to claim this rebate.
On the day you move out, take a meter reading and provide this to your supplier via email or over the phone. It’s also a good idea to make a personal note of this meter reading and the date it was taken in case you need to dispute your final bill. If you have a smart meter, then you can skip this step as readings will be sent to your supplier automatically.
Potential Exit Fees When Ending Your Energy Contract
Exit fees refer to the charge issued by suppliers when someone leaves their contract early; however, if you’re in the last seven weeks of your contract, you shouldn’t be subject to an exit fee. You will likely be given the option to transfer your current contract to your new home, but it’s usually a good idea to compare the available options, as energy prices can differ from area to area.
Switching To A New Energy Supplier After You Move
Assuming you want to switch to the best value energy rates in your new home, you’ll need to compare tariffs offered by the various energy suppliers based on your new postcode. You can only do this when you officially become the owner of the new property, or on the day your tenancy agreement begins.
You can choose between a fixed-rate contract, a standard variable rate, or a prepayment meter if one is installed in your home. However, there are other types of contracts that may be more suitable for certain situations.
Find out more in our Complete Guide to Switching Energy Supplier.
In most cases, you will be required to settle at least one bill with your new home’s current supplier, but once you have chosen a new supplier, the process should be completed in 5 working days. People who are over state pension age, are disabled, or have a long-term illness can request to be put on the priority service register, allowing them to receive extra support.
Prepayment Meters
If your new home has a prepayment meter, then you should get in touch with the current supplier as soon as possible. Avoid topping up the key or card, or else you might become automatically responsible for debts owed by whoever was in the property previously. If you do need to put money on your meter, then inform the supplier and provide them with proof of when you moved in.
During the conversation, ask the supplier to remove any debt currently on the meter so you won’t be charged, request a new prepayment key or card, and also ask for documentation of how the meter works if you are unfamiliar with the technology.
If possible, it is recommended to upgrade from a prepayment meter to a smart meter, which is much more convenient, as it means you no longer have to regularly top up your key or card at a pay point. With a smart meter switched to credit mode, you can pay by direct debit or standard credit. Direct debit means you’ll pay the same amount automatically each month, while standard credit payments will fluctuate based on the amount of energy you use.
Energy Contracts For First-Time Buyers
For first-time buyers, the switching process is just as straightforward as for anyone else, but there may be extra hurdles if you have moved into a brand new property. You first need to determine who the current supplier is, then find the meter to take readings if a smart meter isn’t installed.
Contact the supplier to confirm that you are the new owner of the property and activate the power if needed. You will likely be on a standard tariff, so compare alternative energy deals to secure the best rate. Due to a lack of historical data for recently built homes, the estimates provided when switching may not be accurate, but this doesn’t mean you can’t switch to a cheaper energy deal.
Switching Energy Supplier in a Rental Property
Whether you can choose a cheaper energy tariff will depend on whether the landlord manages the supply or not. If you are paying the bills via direct debit, then you’ll be able to switch to a new deal without needing the landlord’s permission, unless it’s their name on the bill. When switching, ensure you provide both the supplier and the landlord with an accurate meter reading at the time of the switch to avoid any billing disputes.
FAQs:
1. When can I start comparing energy suppliers for my new home?
You can only compare and switch to a new tariff once you officially become the owner or your tenancy agreement begins.
2. What happens if I can't find out who the current energy supplier is at my new home?
It’s not always obvious who the current energy supplier is, especially in a brand new build or a property that has been empty for a long period of time. In these scenarios, you can contact your local Distribution Network Operator (DNO), who will be able to confirm who your registered electricity supplier is. For gas, you will need to call the Meter Number Helpline (0870 608 1524) or enter your meter serial number on the Find My Supplier website.
3. How do I know how much energy a new property is likely to use?
The Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) displays the energy efficiency of a building, as well as providing an estimate of its expected running costs. Alternatively, there are many online energy calculators you could use, which can estimate your usage based on the size of the home, its age, and other factors.
4. Is there any financial help available to reduce my energy bills after moving?
If you receive a state pension or claim certain benefits, then you may be eligible to receive Winter Fuel Payments, Cold Weather Payments, or the Warm Home Discount, which provide financial assistance during the colder months when homes use more energy. Some suppliers also offer subsidised social tariffs to low-income households.
Glossary:
Exit Fee: A charge issued by an energy supplier when a customer leaves their contract before the agreed end date. Not applicable if you're within the final seven weeks of your contract.
Standard Variable Rate (SVR): A flexible energy tariff with no fixed end date, where prices can rise or fall in line with the market.
Prepayment Meter: A type of energy meter that requires the user to top up credit in advance using a key or card at a designated pay point, rather than paying by direct debit.
Energy Performance Certificate (EPC): A document rating the energy efficiency of a property and estimating its expected running costs.
Priority Service Register: A free support scheme for vulnerable customers (including those over state pension age, disabled people, or those with a long-term illness) that entitles them to additional assistance from their energy supplier.
Related Guides
Explore related topics to further build your CreditKnowledge:
CreditKnowledge is a credit broker, not a lender.
Editorial Disclaimer: This content is provided for general informational purposes only and should not be considered advice. It is not intended to provide personalised recommendations or guarantees of any outcomes.
This content reflects general information at the time of publication and is not endorsed by any company. You should always consider your own circumstances and, where appropriate, seek independent advice before making decisions. Nothing in this content should be interpreted as a recommendation to take, or refrain from taking, any specific action.
Page Last Reviewed: 27/06/2026