Can renters switch energy supplier in the UK?

In most cases, yes. If you pay the energy bills directly, you can usually switch supplier or tariff as long as there are no restrictions in your tenancy agreement and you are not on a contract with exit fees. If bills are included in your rent and the landlord is the account holder, you typically can’t switch the supplier—but you can ask the landlord to review the tariff.

How do I know if I’m allowed to change my energy tariff as a tenant?

Check who the account holder is and how bills are paid. If the energy account is in your name, you can normally change tariff or switch. If it’s in the landlord’s name (or bills are included), you’ll need the landlord’s agreement. Also review your tenancy agreement for any clauses about changing utilities and ensure any smart meter/credit meter arrangements remain compliant.

Will switching energy supplier affect my tenancy or deposit?

Switching shouldn’t affect your tenancy or deposit if you follow the correct process: keep the supply active, don’t tamper with meters, and make sure the final bill is settled. When you move out, take meter readings and inform both the supplier and your landlord/letting agent so the account is closed correctly.

Can I get a cheaper energy tariff if I have a prepayment meter?

Yes—many suppliers offer competitive prepayment tariffs, and you may also be able to switch to a credit meter depending on your circumstances and the supplier’s criteria. If you want the cheapest option, compare like-for-like tariffs and factor in any standing charges, unit rates, and payment method requirements.

What information do I need to switch to a cheaper tariff in a rented property?

Typically you’ll need your address, current supplier details, and a recent meter reading. It helps to have your MPAN (electricity) and MPRN (gas) from a bill, plus your current tariff details (unit rate and standing charge). Having these ready can speed up comparisons and switching.

How long does it take to switch energy supplier as a renter?

Switching is often completed within a few working days, depending on your meter type and the supplier’s process. Your energy supply won’t be interrupted. You’ll usually be asked for an up-to-date meter reading to ensure accurate opening and closing bills.

What if my landlord says I can’t switch energy supplier?

If the account is in your name and you pay the bills, you can usually choose your supplier. If the landlord is the account holder or bills are included in rent, you generally can’t switch without their agreement. In either case, you can still cut costs by asking for a tariff review, improving energy efficiency in the home, and ensuring you’re on the best available rate for your payment method.

How can I find the cheapest energy tariff for my rented home?

Compare tariffs using your actual usage (kWh) where possible, then check unit rates and standing charges. Consider fixed vs variable deals, smart meter options, and any exit fees. If you’re ready to compare and switch, start here: https://www.energyplus.co.uk/

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

Yes — in most rentals you can still switch energy supplier or move to a cheaper tariff. Compare whole-of-market deals in minutes and see what you could save at your address.

Find cheaper gas & electricity prices for renters (flats, houses, HMOs)
Check if you can switch when bills are in your name, or after moving in
Understand landlord rules, meters, prepayment & smart meter options
Quick form — we’ll match you to suitable tariffs for your home

Compare renter tariffs Check if you can switch

Home energy only. No obligation. If you’re moving, you can compare for your new address too.

Compare energy tariffs as a renter (whole-of-market)

If you rent in the UK, you’re often able to choose your own gas and electricity supplier — especially when the energy account is in your name. The key is working out who’s responsible for the bills and what type of meter you have. Once that’s clear, you can usually move to a cheaper deal like any other household.

EnergyPlus is a whole-of-market comparison service for home energy. Tell us your postcode and a few details, and we’ll help you compare suitable tariffs for your property — including options for credit meters, smart meters and prepayment where available.

Quick renter check

You can usually switch if you pay the supplier directly (monthly Direct Debit, card, on receipt of bill, or prepay top-ups).
You may not be able to switch if energy is included in your rent and your landlord controls the supply.
Moving in? You can take a meter reading, set up the account, then compare to avoid overpaying on the default tariff.

When can a landlord stop me switching?

In most standard tenancies, landlords can’t force you to stay with a supplier if you’re responsible for the bills. However, restrictions may apply if your rental has a landlord-managed meter, heat network, or energy is bundled into rent. If you’re unsure, jump to eligibility checks.

What you’ll need to compare accurately

Postcode and (ideally) your door number/flat number
Meter type: credit, smart, or prepayment
Your current supplier (if known) and whether you’re on a fixed or variable tariff
Approximate usage (or we can estimate based on home size and occupants)

Get renter quotes

Fill in the form and we’ll help you compare tariffs available for your home.

Moving soon? If you’re about to move into a rental, you can compare now and switch once your new account is set up. Start by taking meter readings on move-in day.

Why renters use EnergyPlus to find a cheaper tariff

Whole-of-market comparison

Compare a wide range of home energy tariffs, not just a limited panel. Ideal if you’re trying to cut costs in a rental.

Renter-specific guidance

We explain when you can switch, how to handle landlord-managed supplies, and what to do with prepayment meters.

Fast, practical outcomes

Get matched with tariffs available for your address and meter type, so you can act quickly and avoid overpaying.

Supports common rental situations

New tenancy: set up supply then compare
Flat with communal heating: check eligibility and alternatives
Prepay: compare available prepayment options and upgrades
Changing housemates: keep the account accurate to avoid debt issues

Designed to reduce friction

Clear next steps and what to ask your landlord/agent
Focus on tariffs that fit your meter and usage
Simple form to start your comparison
Helpful FAQs for the most common renter questions

How renting affects your energy tariff (UK)

Whether you can get a cheaper tariff usually comes down to who pays the supplier and who has the contract. Many renters assume they’re “stuck” — but if the bill is yours, you often have the same switching rights as homeowners.

Three common scenarios in rentals

1) Bills in your name

You’re the customer of the supplier. You can usually switch or choose a cheaper tariff (subject to any exit fees on a fixed deal).

2) Bills included in rent

The landlord/agent controls the supply. You generally can’t switch supplier, but you can still reduce costs with usage changes.

3) Communal/heat network

You may have limited choice for heating. Electricity might still be switchable; check your set-up and contracts.

Eligibility: can you switch if you rent?

Rental situation	Can you switch supplier?	What to do next
You pay the supplier directly (Direct Debit/card/prepay)	Usually yes	Compare tariffs for your postcode and meter type. Confirm there’s no debt linked to the meter.
Energy is included in your rent (all bills package)	Usually no	Ask the landlord/agent how charges are calculated and whether there’s a fair usage policy.
Landlord pays supplier and recharges you	Often no	Request an itemised breakdown. If you become the account holder, you may be able to switch.
Prepayment meter in the property	Sometimes	Compare prepay tariffs where available and consider requesting a credit meter if eligible.
Heat network / communal heating	Limited	You may still switch your electricity supplier. Check your building’s heating provider rules.

If your tenancy agreement mentions a “preferred supplier”, this doesn’t always mean you’re legally prevented from switching. The practical question is: are you the named account holder? If yes, you can typically choose a cheaper tariff — just keep the landlord informed if access is required for meter reads or safety checks.

Meters in rented homes: what changes your options

Your meter type can affect which tariffs are available and how easy it is to switch. Here’s what renters commonly run into — and how to handle it.

Credit meter (standard)

Usually the widest choice of tariffs. If you’re the account holder, switching is typically straightforward.

Take move-in readings
Set up Direct Debit if you want lower rates
Check for fixed tariff exit fees

Smart meter

Smart meters don’t stop you switching. They can make billing more accurate and reduce estimated bills.

Confirm the meter is registered to your address
Submit readings if the smart function isn’t working
Ask permission before any meter work in a rental

Prepayment meter

Some suppliers offer fewer prepay tariffs. It’s still worth comparing — and you may be able to move to credit if eligible.

Check if there’s any meter debt (yours vs previous tenant’s)
Ask supplier about switching options for prepay
Consider requesting a credit meter if you can pass checks

Tip for renters: Always take photos of meter readings on move-in day and keep them with your inventory. This helps prevent disputes and ensures your first bill is accurate.

How to switch energy in a rental (step-by-step)

If the supplier account is (or will be) in your name, switching usually follows a standard process. The steps below help you avoid the most common renter pitfalls.

Confirm responsibility for bills: check your tenancy agreement and ask the letting agent who the current supplier is.
Take meter readings on move-in: do this for gas and electricity (and take photos).
Open/transfer the account: contact the existing supplier to put the supply in your name from your move-in date.
Compare tariffs for your address: use your postcode and meter type to find cheaper options.
Check contract details: fixed vs variable, unit rates, standing charges, and any exit fees.
Start the switch: your new supplier typically handles the transfer; keep paying the old supplier until the switch completes.
Submit final readings: to close out the old account accurately.

Avoid these common renter mistakes

Not taking move-in readings (can lead to paying for a previous tenant’s usage)
Switching before the account is in your name (can delay the process)
Ignoring standing charges (low unit rates can still cost more overall)
Forgetting to update the supplier when housemates change

Questions to ask your landlord/agent

Is energy included in the rent, or do I set up my own account?
Is the property on a heat network or communal heating?
Where are the meters located and how do I access them?
Are there any planned works that affect the meter or supply?

Start my comparison Read renter FAQs

How renters can reduce energy costs (beyond switching)

Getting a cheaper tariff is often the biggest lever — but renters can also make savings by tightening up how bills are set up and how energy is used in a rented home.

Set the Direct Debit correctly

If you’re paying monthly, check your payment amount matches your actual usage. Too high can strain cashflow; too low can build debt.

Submit readings (or use smart)

Estimated bills can be costly and confusing when you move. Regular readings keep bills accurate and help spot spikes early.

Improve comfort cheaply

Draught excluders, radiator foil, and using heating zones can reduce usage without needing landlord approval for major changes.

Fair billing matters: If you’re charged for energy through your landlord, ask for how costs are calculated and whether you’re being billed at cost. Keep records of readings and payments.

FAQs: cheaper energy tariffs for UK renters

Can my landlord choose my energy supplier?

If you’re the bill payer and named on the supplier account, you can usually choose your own tariff. If bills are included in rent or the landlord is the customer, they typically control the supplier.

What if I’m on a prepayment meter?

You may still have options. Availability can be narrower than credit meters, but comparing is worthwhile. If you want a credit meter, you’ll usually need the supplier’s checks and (often) the landlord’s permission for any changes.

Do I need my landlord’s permission to switch?

If you’re responsible for the bills, you can usually switch without permission. However, it’s sensible to notify them if meter access is required or if any equipment changes are proposed.

I’ve just moved in — should I switch straight away?

First, take readings and put the supply in your name from the move-in date. Once the account is set up, compare tariffs. This avoids delays and helps keep billing accurate.

Can I switch if there’s debt on the meter?

If the debt is linked to a previous tenant, contact the supplier immediately with your move-in date and evidence. Your ability to switch can depend on how the account and meter debt are set up.

Is it worth comparing if prices are similar?

Yes. Even when headline prices look close, the total cost can change due to standing charges, payment method, and your usage pattern. Comparing based on your address gives a clearer answer.

Need a quick answer? If you pay the supplier directly, you can usually get a cheaper energy tariff by comparing and switching. If your rent includes bills, switching supplier is typically not available.

What renters say about comparing with EnergyPlus

“I assumed my tenancy meant I couldn’t switch. Turns out the bills were in my name and I moved off the default tariff quickly.”

— Renter, Manchester

“Clear steps for move-in readings and setting up the account. Helpful for a first-time renter managing bills.”

— Tenant, Bristol

“We’re in a flat with prepay. Options were narrower, but still worth checking. Good guidance on what’s possible.”

— Flatshare, Glasgow

Trust focus: We aim to provide clear, renter-relevant comparisons for home energy. Always verify tenancy responsibilities and supplier account holder details before switching.

Ready to check if you can pay less for energy in your rental?

If you’re responsible for the bills, comparing tariffs by postcode is the quickest way to see what’s available for your home. Start now — it only takes a few minutes.

Whole-of-market home energy comparison
Renter guidance for meters, move-ins and shared homes
Primary action: quick form fill

Start your comparison

Compare tariffs Eligibility checklist

Tip: have your postcode and (if possible) your meter type ready for the most accurate options.

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Updated on 13 Jan 2026