Can renters switch to a cheaper energy tariff in the UK?

Yes. In most UK rentals you can switch to a cheaper energy tariff as long as you pay the energy bills and the supply is in your name (or you have permission to take over the account). You don’t need your landlord’s permission to change supplier, but you should keep the meter type the same and avoid making changes to the property without consent. If your bills are included in the rent, the landlord or managing agent usually chooses the tariff.

What should I check before switching energy supplier in a rented property?

Before switching, confirm: (1) you’re responsible for the energy bills; (2) the current supplier/account is in your name or you can set up a new account at move-in; (3) there are no exit fees on a fixed tariff; (4) you know your payment method (Direct Debit is often cheapest); (5) you have the correct meter details (credit, prepayment, smart). Take meter readings on move-in day and keep photos to avoid billing disputes.

Do I need my landlord’s permission to switch tariff or supplier?

Typically no, if you are the bill payer. Switching supplier doesn’t change the wiring or meter in most cases, and you can switch back at the end of your tenancy if you want. If you plan to change the meter type (for example, to prepayment) or make any physical alterations, check your tenancy agreement and speak to the landlord first.

What if my energy bills are included in the rent?

If bills are included, you usually can’t switch the tariff because you’re not the account holder. You can still reduce costs by asking the landlord/agent to review the tariff, improve energy efficiency, or set fair usage terms. If you think you’re paying over the odds, request a breakdown of what’s included and how usage is managed.

Can I switch if I have a prepayment meter?

Often yes. Many suppliers offer prepayment tariffs and you can compare options that match your meter. If you want to move from prepayment to credit, you may need a credit check and the supplier/landlord may need to approve any meter exchange. If you’re struggling to top up, contact your supplier immediately to discuss support options.

How quickly can I switch to a cheaper tariff as a renter?

Switching is usually straightforward once the account is set up in your name. In many cases, a supplier switch completes within a few working days, but it can take longer if there are meter or address issues. To speed things up, have your address details, MPAN/MPRN (if available), and current meter readings ready.

Will switching affect my tenancy deposit or inventory?

Switching supplier normally won’t affect your deposit as it doesn’t alter the property. To avoid end-of-tenancy issues, keep records: your opening and closing meter readings, the date you took responsibility, and confirmation of any switch. Consider switching back to the original supplier before you move out if requested, and always leave the account settled.

How do I get a cheaper energy tariff when I move into a rental?

On move-in day: (1) take meter readings and set up your account with the existing supplier; (2) compare tariffs and switch if you find a cheaper deal; (3) choose Direct Debit if possible; (4) submit readings regularly (or ensure smart meter readings are working). If you want to start comparing now, use Energy Plus to check options and switch online.

Where can I compare and switch to a cheaper tariff?

You can compare energy tariffs and start a switch at https://www.energyplus.co.uk/. If you’re renting, make sure you’re the bill payer and have your current supplier details and meter readings to hand for the most accurate quote.

Can I get a cheaper energy tariff if I rent in the UK?

Yes — in many rentals you can switch to a cheaper gas and electricity tariff, even if you don’t own the property. Use EnergyPlus.co.uk to compare whole-of-market deals and see what you could save at your address.

Check if you’re allowed to switch and what your tenancy says
Compare tariffs for your exact meter type (including prepay & Economy 7)
Switch online in minutes — no engineer visit for most switches
Keep your landlord informed with a simple, best-practice approach

Compare tariffs for my rental Read renting FAQs

Whole-of-market comparison. Switching is subject to eligibility and your meter setup. Always check your tenancy agreement before changing anything related to the property.

Compare energy tariffs for your rented home

If you pay the energy bills in your rental, you can often choose the supplier and tariff. Complete the form to see whole-of-market prices for your address and meter type. We’ll guide you through what to check in your tenancy and how to avoid issues with your landlord or letting agent.

Tip for renters: switching supplier does not change who owns the meter. You can usually switch without altering any property fixtures. If you want a different meter (e.g., from prepay to credit), you may need permission.

What you’ll need (if available)

Your postcode and house/flat details
Approximate annual usage (or a recent bill / in-app estimate)
Meter type: credit, prepayment, Economy 7, smart
If you’re moving in: your move-in date and opening meter readings

Get cheaper rental energy quotes

Fill in the details below. We’ll show the most suitable tariffs for your home energy needs.

Can renters switch energy supplier in the UK?

In most cases, yes. If you are the named bill payer (the account holder) for gas and/or electricity at the property, you can usually switch supplier or tariff to reduce your costs. Your landlord or letting agent typically cannot force you to stay on a more expensive tariff purely for convenience.

When you can switch

You pay the energy bills directly to the supplier
You’re responsible for topping up the meter (prepayment)
You can provide opening readings when you move in
There’s no active debt on the meter/account blocking a switch

When switching may be restricted

Bills included in rent (landlord/agent controls the account)
You’re in a property with communal/heat network arrangements
The landlord has chosen a supplier under a specific bulk supply setup
You want to change the meter type (often needs permission)

Good practice: Even if you’re allowed to switch, tell your landlord/agent you’ve changed supplier so they know who to contact in an emergency and so it’s clear the account is in your name.

Why switching energy in a rental can save you money

Renters often end up on an expensive default tariff after moving in. A quick comparison can reveal cheaper options better suited to your usage — especially if you’re home more, charging an EV at home, or using storage heaters.

Avoid the “move-in” default

When you take over a property you’re typically placed on the existing supplier’s standard tariff until you choose otherwise. Comparing can help you move to a better-priced tariff.

Match tariff to your meter

Prepay, Economy 7, smart meters and multi-rate setups can have very different pricing. A whole-of-market comparison helps you find suitable deals for your setup.

Budget with more certainty

If available, fixed tariffs can provide more predictable costs for a set term. Variable tariffs can offer flexibility if you expect to move again soon.

Better customer service

If you’ve inherited a supplier with poor billing or support, switching can reduce admin headaches like estimated bills and long call waits.

More payment choices

You may be able to move from weekly top-ups to monthly Direct Debit (subject to checks and meter type), which can smooth cash flow.

Greener options

If you want a lower-carbon tariff, comparing makes it easier to find plans aligned to your preferences without changing your home.

How to get a cheaper energy tariff as a renter (step-by-step)

Follow these steps to switch confidently without surprises on your bills.

Check your tenancy agreement
Look for clauses about utilities. Most agreements allow switching supplier as long as you keep the property in good order and settle bills before you leave.
Confirm who the bill payer is
If bills are included in rent, you typically can’t switch. If you’re paying the supplier directly (or topping up prepay), switching is usually possible.
Take meter readings (move-in and switch date)
This helps avoid being billed for a previous tenant’s usage and supports accurate final bills when you move out.
Compare whole-of-market tariffs
Use your postcode and meter type so you only see tariffs you can actually take.
Switch and keep records
Save confirmation emails, photos of readings and your account numbers. Inform your landlord/agent as a courtesy.
Set a reminder before your tariff ends
If you’re on a fixed deal, review options before it ends to avoid rolling onto a higher-priced standard tariff.

Moving soon? If you expect to move again, look for tariffs without exit fees or shorter terms. Comparing at the start can still help avoid overpaying during your tenancy.

Tariffs for rental meter types: prepay, Economy 7 and smart meters

Your meter setup affects which tariffs are available and how you’re billed. Here’s how common rental scenarios work.

Meter / setup	Can I switch supplier?	What to watch out for	Best next step
Credit meter (standard)	Usually yes if you’re the bill payer	Exit fees on fixed tariffs; ensure meter readings are correct when moving in/out	Compare by postcode and expected usage
Prepayment (PAYG)	Often yes (subject to debt/meter rules)	Existing debt can block switching; top-up methods differ by supplier	Compare prepay tariffs and check whether you can move to Direct Debit later
Economy 7 / multi-rate	Yes, but choose carefully	Day rates can be higher; savings depend on how much you use off-peak	Estimate day vs night usage and compare like-for-like tariffs
Smart meter	Yes	In some cases smart functionality may be limited after switching (varies by meter and supplier)	Compare tariffs first; keep submitting readings if needed

Can I change from prepay to credit in a rental?

Sometimes — but changing meter mode/type can be considered a change to the property. It’s sensible to request permission from your landlord/agent before arranging any meter alterations.

Will switching affect my deposit?

Switching supplier normally doesn’t affect the property and shouldn’t affect your deposit. The key is leaving utilities paid up to your move-out date and giving final readings.

Common mistakes renters make when trying to get cheaper energy

Avoid these frequent issues to keep your switch smooth and your bills accurate.

Not taking opening readings

If you don’t record readings on move-in day, you could be charged for previous tenant usage. Take photos and keep them.

Choosing the wrong tariff type

Economy 7 can be great for storage heaters, but costly if most usage is daytime. Compare based on your pattern.

Ignoring exit fees when moving

If you’re likely to move within months, consider tariffs with no exit fees or shorter terms where available.

Assuming the landlord must approve switching

If you’re the bill payer, you can usually switch supplier. You should still keep the landlord informed and avoid changing meter hardware without agreement.

Leaving it until the last week

If you want a new deal to start near a move-in date, begin comparing early. You can often pick a start date.

Not checking whether bills are included

If utilities are included in rent, switching may not be possible. In that case, focus on usage reduction and clarifying fair-use limits.

What renters say about switching energy

Realistic expectations matter: a good switch is one that fits your meter, usage and how long you plan to stay.

“We moved into a flat and didn’t realise we were on a pricey standard tariff. Comparing by postcode made it clear which options actually matched our meter.”

Renter, Manchester

“We’re on Economy 7 and needed something suited to storage heaters. The step-by-step guidance helped us avoid choosing a deal that looked cheap but wasn’t for our pattern.”

Renter, Glasgow

“We told the letting agent we’d switched suppliers and kept the final readings when we left. No issues with the deposit and the bills were clear.”

Renter, Bristol

Trust signal: EnergyPlus.co.uk is a whole-of-market comparison service. We show options based on your address and meter type so you can choose what suits your home.

FAQs: cheaper energy tariffs for UK renters

Can my landlord stop me switching energy supplier?

If you’re the account holder and pay the bills, you can usually switch supplier. However, your tenancy may require you to tell the landlord/agent, keep the meter accessible, and return the account to a standard arrangement when you leave. If the landlord pays the bills (bills included), they control the supplier.

What if I’m in a house share (HMO)?

It depends who is responsible for the energy account. If one tenant is the bill payer, they can generally switch (with agreement from housemates). If bills are included in rent, switching usually isn’t possible. Always make sure everyone understands how costs are split before changing tariff.

I’ve just moved in — do I have to stay with the current supplier?

No. You can normally switch once you’ve set up your account and provided opening meter readings. In many cases you’re temporarily on the existing supplier’s default tariff until you choose a new one.

Will switching energy affect my credit score?

Energy suppliers may run checks for certain payment methods (such as Direct Debit credit tariffs). Paying on time and keeping your account in good standing is the best way to avoid issues. If you’re on prepay, the process can be different.

Can I switch if I owe money to my current supplier?

Debt can sometimes prevent switching, particularly on prepayment meters. If there’s a balance, you may need to clear it or agree a repayment plan. If you think the debt relates to a previous tenant, contact the supplier with evidence of your move-in date and opening readings.

Do I need an engineer visit to switch?

Usually not. Most switches are administrative. An engineer visit may be needed if you’re changing the meter itself or altering the meter mode, which may require landlord permission in a rental.

What happens to the energy account when I move out?

Take final readings on your move-out day, inform your supplier, and provide a forwarding address. This helps ensure your final bill is accurate and reduces the risk of disputes. Leave the property’s energy supply active; the next occupier will set up their own account.

Still unsure? Start with a postcode comparison and we’ll help you identify whether you can switch based on your situation.

Ready to see if you can pay less in your rental?

Compare whole-of-market energy tariffs available at your address. If you’re the bill payer, switching is often straightforward — and you could avoid overpaying on a default tariff.

Start my comparison Check switching rules

Home energy only. Availability and prices vary by region, supplier, and meter type.

Quick checklist before you switch

Check tenancy terms for utilities
Take/photograph opening readings
Confirm your meter type (prepay/E7/smart)
Tell your landlord/agent after switching

Back to Energy Cost Saving Advice

Updated on 27 Feb 2026