House Moving: Practical Tips to Know When Switching Energy Provider

Tips to Know When Switching Energy Provider

When moving houses, there is so much going on and so much to do that it’s easy to forget some of the smaller details, such as settling your energy bill. When you have a new house to pay for, though, every penny counts, and the monthly savings on your gas and energy bills can easily add up.

Unlike resolving your mortgage, switching energy suppliers takes a few minutes. You could be surprised by the difference in your energy bills if you’re moving to a larger home.

So, before you get your first bill, make sure you’re on the cheapest energy plan and make sure to have renewable energy options.

Inform your current energy provider

Contact your present energy provider a minimum of 48-hours in advance before you plan to move out and let them know the date of your relocation and the address you’ll be moving to so they can give you your final bill.

After that, the energy provider will either schedule a meter reading or inquire about having it done the day before your move.  Your energy supplier’s contact information can be found on your bill.

On the day you move out, take a reading of the meter

You should take a reading from the meter on your last day on the property. This prevents you from being overcharged by the energy provider for energy you haven’t used. Send this information to your provider, and keep a record of it for yourself. When you’ve moved, the energy provider will give you a final statement to pay.

If you live in a rental home, keep a record of your meter readings and inform the landlord prior to moving out.

Another good idea is to tell the new occupants about the energy supplier who has been providing energy for the house. You have two options: leave a message on any handover papers or notify the property agent or landlord.

What to do when you first arrive at your new home

On the day of the move, take electricity and gas readings. When you first move in, get new gas and electricity meter readings. This ensures that you only pay for the gas and electricity you use, rather than any expenses incurred by the previous tenant or landlord.

Find out who will be supplying your new home with electricity. You’ll be positioned on what’s known as a ‘deemed deal’ with the energy supplier who supplied energy to the previous occupants. You can take electricity and gas meter readings when you first move in and notify your current gas and electricity provider. This should mean that you only pay for the energy you use at the new place.

Give your meter readings to your current energy provider. Give your details, the date you’ve taken up residence, and the meter readings from that date to the energy provider who provides service at your new house. They’ll be able to set up a new account for you after that.

When you first move in, most companies will automatically put you on their regular tariff, which means you’ll have to choose to avoid overpaying for your electricity.

Assume you’re a business owner who has recently relocated to a new commercial site. In that case, you can take meter readings and contact your current provider to ensure that you are not being overcharged on your first business energy bill.

What if my new home is equipped with a meter that accepts prepayment?

If your new home has a meter that accepts prepayment, you’ll have to compensate for all of your gas and energy use upfront. A key or token is used to top up your energy credits in this “pay-as-you-go” scheme.

You must contact the supplier if you would like to switch a meter for credit. A credit check or evidence of residence can be required by the supplier.

Because of this, most households prefer a credit system to prepayment meters because it provides them with more options for payment. In addition, prepayment meter prices are likely to be higher.

How to Change Energy Providers Online

Go to an online website and type in your zip code. Prices for electricity and gas are determined on a regional basis, and certain suppliers only service those regions by entering your postcode or on an online website.

Calculate your energy consumption. You need to know how much energy you use to remind you how much money you would save if you switch. Your usage information can be found on a recent bill or a yearly energy statement. You have to know how much you consume to get a rough estimate of your consumption, look at your energy bills or answer a few questions about your home.

Complete payment details. Confirming your transition to a new energy provider is the final step in the process. To do so, you must include your complete address as well as your bank account information so that your new supplier can set up a Direct Debit.

To Conclude

Moving houses can be stressful, and settling your energy bills might not be at the top of your to-do list. However, knowing what will happen when you move will mean that you don’t overpay for electricity and that you turn to the best tariff available in your new home.

About Amanda

I love to buy a lot of products for the home, and dissect them out. I split them into duds and winners, and share the findings here on my site. As a reader of my site, I'm aiming for your next purchase to be an informed and inspired one.

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