What should I do about my energy when I move into a new home in the UK?

On move-in day, take gas and electricity meter readings, find out who currently supplies the property, and make sure the account is put in your name so you don’t pay for the previous occupier. You’ll usually be placed on the supplier’s standard (default) tariff at first. Once you have your readings and a start date, you can compare and switch to a cheaper tariff for your new address.

Can I switch energy supplier as soon as I move in?

Yes. In most cases you can start a switch immediately after moving in, once the account is set up in your name and you have opening meter readings. If you’re in a rented property, you can still choose your own supplier unless your tenancy agreement explicitly restricts it (this is uncommon).

What are the best energy tariffs for new home movers in the UK this month?

The best tariff depends on your new home’s usage, payment method, and whether you want price certainty. Many movers save by switching away from the default tariff to a competitively priced fixed or discounted variable tariff. Compare tariffs for your postcode and estimated annual use to see the cheapest option available for your new address on EnergyPlus.

Is it better to choose a fixed or variable tariff when moving home?

A fixed tariff can provide price certainty for a set term, which many movers like for budgeting after a move. A variable tariff can offer flexibility and may be suitable if you expect to switch again soon. Check the unit rates, standing charges, term length, and any exit fees before choosing.

Will I pay an exit fee if I switch after moving?

You typically won’t pay an exit fee to leave the previous occupier’s supplier because you’re starting a new account at the property. However, if you sign up to a fixed tariff and later switch again during the fixed term, the new tariff may include exit fees. Always check the tariff’s terms before you sign up.

How do I estimate energy usage for a new property to find the cheapest tariff?

If you don’t know the home’s historical usage, start with an estimate based on property size, number of occupants, heating type (gas, electric, heat pump), and how often you’re at home. Once you receive your first bill or have a few weeks of smart meter data, re-check your tariff to ensure it’s still cost-effective and switch again if needed.

Do I need to contact the current supplier when I move in?

Yes—contacting the existing supplier helps ensure the account starts on the correct date with the correct opening readings. This avoids being billed for energy used before you moved in. You can then compare and switch to a better tariff without interruption to your supply.

How long does an energy switch take in the UK?

Switching typically takes a few working days in the UK, and your energy supply won’t be cut off during the process. Your new supplier will manage the switch and your meter readings help ensure your final and opening bills are accurate.

Can switching energy provider affect my credit score?

Some suppliers may run a credit check for certain payment methods or tariffs, which can leave a soft or hard search depending on the supplier. If you want to minimise credit checking, consider tariffs or payment options that are more likely to use soft checks. Always review supplier terms during sign-up.

What information do I need to compare tariffs and switch quickly?

Have your new address and postcode, move-in date, current supplier (if known), meter type (credit or prepayment), and your opening readings. If you know your expected annual kWh usage, you’ll get a more accurate comparison. You can use these details to compare and switch online at EnergyPlus.

Best energy tariffs for new home movers in the UK this month

Moving home? Compare whole-of-market gas and electricity tariffs for your new address and switch in minutes. Get a shortlist matched to your usage, move-in date and preferences—then choose a deal that fits your new household.

Whole-of-market comparison for home energy (not business)
See options for your new postcode, including fixed & variable tariffs
Move-in friendly switching: pick your start date where available
Guidance on standing charges, unit rates and exit fees

Compare tariffs for my new home See the mover checklist

EnergyPlus.co.uk is a comparison service. Availability and prices depend on your postcode, meter type and credit checks. Always confirm details with the supplier before you switch.

Compare energy tariffs for your new home (whole-of-market)

The “best” energy tariff for new home movers in the UK this month depends on your new postcode, meter type, payment method and estimated usage. EnergyPlus helps you compare across the market and quickly narrow down the most suitable options for your move.

If you’ve just completed, are about to exchange, or you’re moving into a rental, you can use the form to request a personalised shortlist. We’ll focus on what matters to movers: start dates, exit fees, and whether you’re better off with a fixed or variable deal right now.

Tip for movers: If you don’t know your annual usage yet, you can estimate using property size and occupants. If you have a recent bill from your previous home, include it—then adjust later once you have readings at your new address.

Why home movers should compare energy tariffs now

You inherit the current supplier by default

When you move, the property already has a supplier. You’ll typically be placed on a deemed or standard variable tariff until you choose otherwise—often not the most cost-effective option for your new home.

Rates and standing charges vary by region

A tariff that looked good at your old address might not be best at your new postcode. Regional network costs influence pricing, so it pays to compare again after you move.

Your household usage can change

Bigger home, more occupants, working from home, EV charging or different heating type? The best tariff for movers is the one matched to your likely usage and meter set-up.

What makes an energy tariff “best” for new movers this month?

There isn’t one single “best” tariff for everyone. For movers, the best deal is typically the one that balances overall cost, flexibility and certainty for your first months in the new home. Use this quick guide when comparing gas and electricity tariffs in the UK.

Mover priorities (most common)

Low standing charge if you expect lower usage at first (e.g. renovations or short stays)
No/low exit fees if you might switch again after settling in
Competitive unit rates for higher usage homes
Start date control where the supplier offers it
Payment method that suits you (monthly direct debit, on receipt of bill, PAYG where available)

Check these numbers before you choose

What to compare	Why it matters for movers	Good to know
Unit rate (p/kWh)	Drives the bulk of your bill once you’re settled	Compare electricity and gas separately; rates vary by region
Standing charge (p/day)	You pay this even with low usage (e.g. empty property)	High standing charge can outweigh lower unit rates for low users
Tariff length	Impacts flexibility while you learn your new home’s usage	Shorter fixes can reduce commitment; longer fixes can increase certainty
Exit fees	Moving plans can change; you may re-switch after a few months	Look for £0 exit fee options if flexibility is key
Meter type	Some tariffs are only available for smart meters or specific set-ups	Economy 7 and smart tariffs may suit particular usage patterns
Payment method	Can change eligibility and rates	Monthly direct debit often offers the widest choice of tariffs

Tariff types explained for UK home movers

If you’re new to switching (or it’s been a while), here’s how the main tariff types work in the UK—and which often suit people who have just moved.

Fixed tariffs

Your unit rates and standing charges are set for the fixed term (subject to contract terms). Many movers choose fixed deals for predictable monthly budgeting.

Often best if you want bill certainty
Check for exit fees before committing
Look at the full cost, not just headline rates

Standard variable / flexible tariffs

Rates can change. This is commonly what you’ll be on immediately after moving (a deemed or default arrangement), until you switch.

Usually no exit fees
Good short-term option while you gather meter details
Can be more expensive over time

Smart / time-of-use tariffs

Prices vary by time of day. These can work well if your new home has a smart meter and you can shift usage to cheaper periods.

Can suit EV owners or off-peak heavy users
Make sure you understand peak vs off-peak rates
Not ideal if most usage is during peak times

New build or newly rented? You might have a smart meter, a prepayment meter, or (occasionally) a complex meter set-up. If you’re unsure, we’ll help you identify the right tariff category once you provide your new postcode and any meter details you have.

Home mover energy checklist (before and after moving day)

Use this checklist to avoid billing issues, speed up your switch, and make sure you’re comparing like-for-like tariffs for your new address.

Take meter readings on moving day (gas and electricity) and photograph them. This helps prevent disputes and ensures accurate opening/closing bills.
Find the current supplier for the property (often on the welcome letter or previous tenant info). You can usually stay temporarily on the default tariff while you compare.
Note your meter type (credit meter, smart meter, Economy 7, prepayment). Some tariffs depend on your meter set-up.
Estimate your new usage (occupants, property size, heating type). If you’ll be renovating, account for periods of low occupancy.
Compare whole-of-market tariffs using your new postcode. Focus on total expected cost, exit fees and standing charges.
Choose your payment method (monthly direct debit is often the broadest). Make sure the name on the account matches the bank details.
Keep an eye on your first bill at the new address—check opening readings and tariff details match what you agreed.

Common mover mistake: forgetting to submit readings for the old address. That can delay refunds or create unexpected final bills.

Compare tariffs for my new postcode Read mover FAQs

Regional and property considerations (UK)

Postcode & network area

Energy pricing in Great Britain varies by region due to distribution network costs. That’s why comparing with your new postcode is essential—even if you were happy with your previous tariff.

Flats, electric-only homes and Economy 7

Many flats and some new builds rely on electric heating. If you have Economy 7 or a time-of-use meter, the best tariff depends on when you use power. We’ll help you compare like-for-like based on your meter type.

Prepayment meters

If the property has a prepayment meter, tariff choice can be different. Depending on eligibility, you may be able to switch supplier and/or request a meter change—just expect it to take a little longer.

Smart meters and smart tariffs

If your new home has a smart meter, you may see more tariff options. If it doesn’t, you can still compare standard tariffs; some suppliers may offer smart meter upgrades after you join.

FAQs: best energy tariffs for new home movers

Do I have to stay with the existing supplier when I move?

No. You’ll usually be supplied by the current supplier on a default arrangement at first, but you can compare and switch to a new supplier. The key is to take meter readings on moving day and keep them safe.

When should I switch energy when moving house?

You can start comparing as soon as you have the new address details and expected move-in date. Some people switch shortly after moving in, once opening readings are submitted and they know the meter type. If you’re unsure, use the form above and we’ll guide you through the practical timing.

Will switching affect my move-in energy supply?

No—your energy supply continues. Switching changes the company that bills you, not the physical supply. Always make sure your opening meter readings are correct to avoid billing confusion.

What if I don’t know my annual usage for the new home?

That’s common when moving. You can estimate based on occupants and property type, then refine later. When comparing, pay attention to standing charges (important for low usage periods) and the overall projected annual cost rather than a single rate.

Is a fixed tariff always best for movers?

Not always. Fixed tariffs can give budgeting certainty, but movers sometimes benefit from flexibility (e.g. £0 exit fees) while they learn the new home’s energy pattern. Comparing options side-by-side is the safest way to decide.

Do you compare both gas and electricity?

Yes. We can help you compare electricity-only, gas-only (where applicable), or dual fuel options depending on your new home’s set-up.

What home movers say about EnergyPlus

“We moved into a flat and had no idea what tariff we were on. The shortlist made it obvious what we were paying and what we could switch to.”

— Sarah, Manchester

“Helpful in explaining standing charges and exit fees. We chose a flexible tariff first, then fixed once we knew our usage.”

— James, Bristol

“Comparing by postcode was key—our old tariff wasn’t great for the new area. Switching was straightforward.”

— Priya, Glasgow

Trust checks: Always confirm tariff details (rates, standing charges, term and fees) before completing a switch. Keep a record of your move-in meter readings and the date you took them.

Ready to find the best tariff for your new home?

Use your new postcode to get a mover-friendly shortlist. We’ll help you compare whole-of-market options so you can choose a tariff that fits your household this month.

Start comparison Read FAQs

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Updated on 14 Feb 2026