Can I switch energy supplier if I’m moving house in the UK?
Yes. In most cases you can switch supplier when you move home — and it can be a smart time to compare whole-of-market tariffs. Use EnergyPlus to check deals for your new address and start your switch with a quick form.
- Compare gas, electricity, or dual fuel for your new postcode
- See fixed and variable options across the market
- Understand if you should stay, switch now, or wait
- Get practical moving-day steps (meter reads, opening account, timings)
Home energy comparison service. We’ll use your details to help you compare tariffs and contact you about your options. No obligation to switch.
Compare energy for your new address (whole-of-market)
Moving house is one of the few times you can reset your energy setup without disrupting your day-to-day routine. You’ll usually start on the current supplier’s deemed tariff at your new property (often not the cheapest). Once you’ve taken meter readings and confirmed your move-in date, you’re free to compare and switch to a tariff that better suits your usage and budget.
EnergyPlus helps you compare home energy deals across the market for your new postcode. If you’re unsure whether to switch right away, we’ll also explain when it’s better to wait (for example, if your current deal has exit fees or the new property has prepayment meters).
Quick answer
You can switch energy supplier when moving house in the UK. You’ll need: your new address, move-in date, and opening meter readings. Switching usually completes within a few working days, though timings vary by supplier and meter type.
What we’ll help you do
- Check if switching immediately is suitable for your situation
- Compare fixed vs variable tariffs for your new home
- Choose gas-only, electricity-only, or dual fuel
- Understand what happens to your old account and final bill
Get comparison results
Complete the form and we’ll help you compare tariffs for your new property.
Moving house energy basics (what happens at the new property)
When you collect keys, your new home will already be supplied by a gas and/or electricity provider. You don’t need to arrange an emergency supply; it’s already in place. If you do nothing, you’ll be placed on that supplier’s deemed contract (a default tariff). You can then choose to stay or switch.
You can’t “take” the previous owner’s tariff
Energy contracts are tied to the person, not the property. You’ll open a new account at the new address. The previous occupant should close their account and provide final meter readings.
Your old home supply is separate
At your old property, you’ll give closing readings, receive a final bill (or refund), and the account ends. Any new switch you start applies to the new address only.
What if I don’t know the current supplier at the new address?
You can still move in and take your readings. Identifying the current supplier can take a little time; once you know it, you can open your account and switch. If you’re unsure, start your comparison above and we’ll guide you.
Why switching when moving can save money
People often focus on broadband and council tax and forget energy. But the first few weeks in a new place are a common time to overpay — especially if you remain on a deemed tariff. Comparing early helps you avoid months of higher rates.
Avoid default pricing
Deemed tariffs can be less competitive. Switching helps you move onto a plan that fits your new household.
Pick a tariff that matches usage
A flat, a family house, or an all-electric home can have very different needs. Comparing lets you choose accordingly.
Set up direct debit and budgeting
Switching is a good moment to review payment method and monthly budget, and reduce admin later.
Choose dual fuel for simplicity
One supplier for gas and electricity can mean fewer bills and easier account management (where available).
Prepare for smart meters
If your new home has a smart meter (or you want one), switching can be a good time to align with your preference.
Reduce “moving admin”
Doing it early means fewer reminders, fewer estimated bills, and fewer missed letters at the old address.
How to switch energy supplier when you move (step-by-step)
Follow these steps to keep your supply continuous, avoid incorrect bills, and make the switching process smoother.
- Before you move: tell your current supplier your moving date (if you know it) and request what they need to close your account.
- On moving day: take clear photos of the gas and electricity meters at the new property and write down the readings (including any meter serial numbers you can see).
- Open your new account: contact the current supplier for the new address (if you know it) to register as the new occupier using your opening readings.
- Compare tariffs: use EnergyPlus to compare whole-of-market deals for your new postcode and choose gas, electricity, or dual fuel.
- Start the switch: once you’ve chosen a tariff, the new supplier manages the switch. Your energy shouldn’t be interrupted.
- Check your first bill: ensure opening readings are used and your tariff matches what you chose. Keep your meter photo as proof.
Tip: keep both addresses separate
When you’re moving, it’s easy to mix up readings and dates between the old and new properties. Record two sets of readings: closing readings at the old home and opening readings at the new one.
Timing, exit fees, and switching rules (UK)
Whether you should switch immediately depends on your current tariff and what you’re doing with your old account. Here’s what typically matters.
| Situation | What it means when moving | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| You’re on a fixed tariff at the old address | Your old account will be closed when you move out. Some tariffs can have exit fees, but moving house can change how these apply. | Check your tariff terms and ask your supplier about moving. Then compare deals for the new address. |
| You’ve just moved in | You’ll likely be placed on a deemed tariff with the current supplier until you choose a new deal. | Take opening readings, register, then compare and switch as soon as you’re ready. |
| Prepayment meter at the new property | Some tariffs and suppliers are more limited for prepayment, and switching can take longer. | Tell us in your enquiry; we’ll help you compare suitable options and steps. |
| Smart meter installed | Smart meters usually continue to work, but display/feature support may vary by supplier and meter setup. | Compare as normal; keep an eye on your first bills and readings. |
| New build or address not recognised | New addresses can take time to appear in databases, which can delay switching. | Start with the current supplier for supply registration, then switch once the address is fully live. |
Will my energy be cut off if I switch?
No — switching supplier should not interrupt your gas or electricity supply. The switch is an administrative change, not a physical disconnection.
Common mistakes to avoid when switching during a move
Not taking meter readings on day one
Estimated readings can lead to disputes later. Take photos of both meters (and serial numbers if possible) and keep them until your first accurate bill arrives.
Mixing up old and new accounts
Your old address needs closing readings; your new address needs opening readings. Keep a simple checklist with dates, readings, and photos for each property.
Assuming you must stay with the current supplier
You’re free to compare and switch once you’ve moved in (and registered if needed). The default supplier is simply the starting point.
Waiting too long on a deemed tariff
If you postpone comparing, it’s easy to pay more than necessary for months. A quick check of tariffs can help you decide your next step.
If you’re renting
Tenants can usually switch energy supplier, but check your tenancy agreement for any specific requirements. The key is that bills are in your name and you can access meter readings.
FAQs: switching energy supplier when moving house
Can I arrange a switch before I move?
Often you can start researching early, but the switch usually works best once you have the move-in date and opening meter readings. If you have these confirmed, you can compare and begin the process around your move.
Do I need to contact the existing supplier at the new address?
It’s recommended. You’ll want to register as the new occupier and provide opening readings so you’re billed correctly. After that, you can switch to a new supplier if you prefer.
Can switching delay my move or stop my energy?
No. Your energy supply stays on. Switching is an admin change behind the scenes; you won’t be left without gas or electricity simply because you compare or start a switch.
What if I’m moving into an all-electric property (no gas)?
That’s common in flats and some newer homes. You can still compare electricity-only tariffs. It’s useful to consider your heating and hot water setup (storage heaters, immersion, heat pump) when choosing a tariff.
What happens to my final bill at my old address?
You’ll receive a final bill based on your closing readings and move-out date. If you’ve built up credit, you should receive a refund. Keep your closing meter photos until everything is settled.
Does it matter if I have a smart meter?
You can still switch. In most cases readings will continue to be collected. If anything looks off on your first bill, your opening meter photo is the best way to resolve it quickly.
Still unsure which option fits your move?
Start with the comparison form and we’ll help you work out the best next step for your new address.
Trusted support when you’re changing address
Moving comes with enough admin already. Our aim is to make energy comparison clear and practical — so you can make a confident choice for your new home.
“The moving-day checklist was spot on. Took meter readings, compared options, and had a new tariff lined up without any hassle.”
Homeowner, Manchester
“I didn’t realise I’d be on a deemed tariff after moving. EnergyPlus helped me compare quickly for the new postcode.”
Renter, Bristol
“Clear explanation of what happens to the old account and what to do at the new place. Saved me time and confusion.”
Family move, Glasgow
What you can expect
- Whole-of-market comparison focus (home energy)
- Clear next steps based on your move timeline
- Support for gas, electricity, and dual fuel comparisons
Ready to switch energy supplier for your new home?
Avoid staying on a default tariff longer than you need to. Compare whole-of-market deals for your new postcode and start your switch in minutes.
Switching is an administrative process and your supply should not be interrupted. Always take opening/closing meter readings when moving.
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