Can I keep my current energy tariff when I move house?

Usually, energy tariffs are linked to a specific property and meter, so you typically can’t ‘take’ the tariff with you. When you move in, you’ll automatically be on the new home’s existing supplier (often on a standard/variable tariff) until you switch. The quickest way to reduce costs is to take meter readings on move-in day, then compare and switch to a cheaper tariff as soon as possible.

What should I do with my old energy supplier when I move out?

Tell your current supplier your move-out date and provide final meter readings (with photos if possible). Give them a forwarding address for the final bill or refund. This helps avoid being charged for energy used after you leave and makes closing your account smoother.

How do I find out who supplies energy at my new address?

If you don’t know the supplier when you move in, check any welcome letters, ask the landlord/agent, or look at the meter for a supplier name. You can also use official UK lookup services for electricity and gas to identify the current supplier, then decide whether to stay or switch.

When is the best time to switch energy supplier after moving house?

You can start a switch as soon as you’ve moved in and have your opening meter readings. Many households are placed on a more expensive default tariff at a new property, so switching early can help you start saving quickly. Make sure your account is set up with the current supplier first so your switch goes through without delays.

Will I pay exit fees if I switch after moving?

Exit fees depend on the tariff. If you’re on a fixed deal at your old home, you may have an exit fee for leaving early—though some suppliers waive fees if you’re moving. At your new home, you’re often on a standard/variable tariff with no exit fees, which can make switching straightforward. Check your tariff terms before switching.

What meter readings should I take when moving house?

Take readings on the day you move out and the day you move in (gas and electricity). Photograph the readings and note the date/time. These readings protect you from being billed for someone else’s usage and ensure your opening and closing bills are accurate.

How can I get a cheaper energy tariff when moving house in the UK?

To get a cheaper tariff, first take opening meter readings and confirm the current supplier at the new address. Then compare tariffs based on your expected usage and choose a deal that fits (fixed or variable). Switching soon after moving in can reduce time spent on a higher default tariff. For more ways to cut costs, explore Energy Plus cost-saving guidance at https://www.energyplus.co.uk/CostSavingAdvice/.

Do I need to contact the current supplier at the new property before I switch?

Yes—ideally register with the current supplier first (so the account is in your name) using your move-in date and opening readings. Once your account is set up, you can switch to a cheaper tariff with fewer issues. This also ensures bills and any credit/refunds are correctly assigned to you.

How to get a cheaper energy tariff when moving house (UK)

Moving home is one of the easiest moments to cut energy costs—if you handle the supplier, meter and timing correctly. This guide shows the UK steps that usually lead to the lowest cost (without risking a loss of supply).

Stay on supply on move-in day, then compare and switch once you have the right details
Use meter type (smart/prepay/economy 7) and payment method to avoid “unavailable tariff” surprises
Learn when you can transfer your current deal, when you shouldn’t, and what to do about exit fees

Get my moving-home quote See the move-in switching steps

Figures are estimates based on typical household usage and tariffs. Availability, rates and exit fees vary by supplier, meter type, region and payment method.

Fast answer: the cheapest way to handle energy when you move

In the UK, you can’t usually switch suppliers until you’re responsible for the supply at the new address. The lowest-cost approach is normally:

Don’t cancel the existing supply on move-in day. Take meter readings and tell the current supplier you’ve moved in. You’ll be put on the deemed contract (often not the cheapest, but keeps you on supply).
Identify your meter & payment type (credit meter vs prepay; smart meter; Economy 7) and check whether you need to keep the same meter (for example, you’ll want tariffs compatible with Economy 7 or prepayment).
Compare whole-of-market tariffs using your new address details, then switch once your move-in is registered (often within days).
Set up Direct Debit if you can—it’s often cheaper than standard credit or pay-on-receipt for the same tariff.

Key takeaway (most homes)

Key takeaway (prepay & Economy 7)

Filter tariffs by your meter type first. Some deals won’t be available unless the meter is compatible (or you change meter).

Key takeaway (fixed deals)

If you’re in a fixed tariff at your old home, check exit fees and whether your supplier lets you transfer the deal to the new address.

Important: Your energy supply won’t be cut off just because you haven’t chosen a supplier yet. The existing supplier must continue supplying you while you set up your account and/or switch.

Compare tariffs for your new home (and switch when you’re ready)

Use this section to get a tailored comparison for your move. If you’re not sure about your exact usage yet, you can still compare using household size and meter type—then refine once you receive your first bill.

What you’ll need

New home postcode
Move-in date (approx is fine)
Meter type: credit / prepay / Economy 7
Payment preference (Direct Debit usually cheapest)

Move-in essentials (do this first)

Take meter readings on the day you get keys
Photograph the meter screen (date-stamped if possible)
Find the MPAN (electricity) / MPRN (gas) if you can
Ask the letting agent/seller who currently supplies the property

Good to know: Many switches complete in a few working days, but timelines can vary (for example, if there’s an address registration issue, meter exchange, or debt/prepay situation).

Step-by-step: switching during a house move

Move-in day: take gas and electricity readings (even if you have smart meters). Keep photos.
Within 24–72 hours: contact the existing supplier (the one currently supplying that address) to open an account in your name and provide readings.
Once you’re registered: compare tariffs using your postcode, meter type and payment choice, then apply to switch.
During the switch: you keep supply; you’ll get a final bill from the old supplier and opening bill from the new supplier based on readings.
After switching: check your first bill for correct start date, tariff name, meter serial number and readings.

Get a moving-home energy quote

Share a few details and we’ll compare whole-of-market home energy tariffs for your new address. No obligation.

Why we ask for this: postcode affects regional rates; your contact details let us send your comparison and support you if you choose to switch.

Your options when you move: what’s usually cheapest (and when)

When you move into a UK property, you’ll normally be on a deemed tariff with the existing supplier until you agree a new tariff or switch. The table below shows the typical trade-offs.

Option	Best for	Watch-outs	Typical cost impact
Stay on deemed tariff briefly, then switch	Most movers who want flexibility and quick savings	Deemed tariffs can be relatively expensive; don’t forget to register readings	Often cheaper than waiting months
Transfer your current fixed deal to the new address	If your current fix is genuinely competitive and transferable	Not all tariffs can move; new property meter type may not qualify	Could avoid exit fees; may or may not be cheapest now
Agree a new tariff with the existing supplier (no switch)	If you want simplicity or you need a prepay-compatible tariff quickly	You could miss better deals elsewhere	Can reduce cost vs deemed, but not always best overall
Change meter (e.g., prepay to credit, or smart meter install)	If meter type is blocking you from cheaper tariffs	May require eligibility checks, appointment availability, and sometimes landlord permission	Can unlock cheaper Direct Debit tariffs (where appropriate)

Decision checklist: who this guide suits

You’re moving into a UK home and will be responsible for the bills
You’re currently on a standard variable or an older fixed tariff and want to compare
You can provide (or estimate) household size and meter type
You want a plan that avoids supply risk and admin surprises

Who it may not suit (or needs extra steps)

Business premises (this page is domestic only)
All bills included in rent (you may not be able to choose supplier)
Heat networks (communal heating) or “district heating” setups
Complex meters (multiple MPANs, landlords’ supplies, restricted meters)

Two realistic moving scenarios (with estimated numbers)

Scenario 1: Switch quickly after moving in (typical credit meter)

Assumptions (illustrative): dual-fuel home; paying by Direct Debit; deemed tariff is around £150/month; alternative competitive tariff is around £125/month for the same estimated usage; you remain on deemed for 6 weeks before switching.

Estimated impact: 6 weeks on deemed ˜ £150 × 1.5 = £225. 6 weeks on cheaper tariff ˜ £125 × 1.5 = £187.50. That’s about £37.50 difference over the first 6 weeks. Over 6 months, the ongoing difference could be about £150 (if rates stay similar).

Caveat: These are rounded examples. Real tariffs vary by region, meter type, payment method and how much energy your home uses.

Scenario 2: Prepayment meter move-in (focus on compatibility first)

Assumptions (illustrative): electricity-only flat with a prepay meter; you spend around £80/week on emergency/regular top-ups initially while you settle in; after switching to a more suitable prepay tariff, spend becomes £70/week based on similar usage; it takes 4 weeks to complete the switch and stabilise usage.

Estimated impact: difference ˜ £10/week × 4 weeks = £40. If you then move to a credit meter and Direct Debit later (where appropriate and approved), further savings may be possible—but it depends on eligibility and tariff availability.

Caveat: With prepay, costs are sensitive to standing charges, unit rates, and your heating/hot water setup. Always compare like-for-like tariff types.

Costs, exclusions and common pitfalls (UK moving checklist)

Most switching problems during a house move come down to timing, readings, and meter type. Use the cards below to avoid the expensive (and stressful) mistakes.

1) Exit fees on your old home

If you’re leaving a fixed tariff, you may face an exit fee. Some suppliers waive it if you’re within a specific window before the tariff ends. Check your terms and ask before you move.

2) Confusing “deemed” with “standard variable”

A deemed contract is what you’re placed on when you take responsibility for a supply without agreeing a tariff. It’s not the same as choosing a standard variable tariff—and it may be less competitive.

3) Wrong meter details = wrong tariffs

If your new home has Economy 7, you’ll want tariffs that support two rates (day/night). If it’s prepay, you’ll need prepay-compatible tariffs—or a meter change (where possible).

4) Meter readings not recorded properly

No reading = higher risk of estimated bills. Always take photos and keep them until your first bill is correct. If there’s a dispute, this evidence helps.

5) Debt flags and prepay complications

If the meter shows debt, contact the supplier immediately. You shouldn’t be liable for a previous occupier’s debt, but you may need support to clear the meter and register correctly.

6) “All bills included” tenancies

If your rent includes energy, you may not be able to switch supplier. Ask your landlord/agent who manages the account before you try to arrange a switch.

Consumer protection reminder: Switching is regulated in Great Britain, and you should not lose supply during a normal switch. If you’re worried about affordability or arrears, get advice early (see sources below).

FAQs: moving house and switching energy in the UK

Can I switch energy supplier before I move in?

Usually, you need to be responsible for the supply (i.e., registered as the occupier) before a switch can complete. A practical approach is to register your move-in with the current supplier first, then switch as soon as your account is live.

Will my energy be cut off if I don’t pick a supplier right away?

No—when you move in, the property is already being supplied. You’ll be billed by the existing supplier on a deemed contract until you agree a tariff or switch.

How do I find out who supplies my new home?

Ask the seller/letting agent first. If you still can’t confirm, you can use the UK’s official lookup services: electricity uses an MPAN-related process and gas uses the MPRN system (see Ofgem guidance and Citizens Advice resources below).

What meter readings should I take when moving in?

Take readings for gas and electricity on the day you get the keys, plus photos of the meter(s) showing the reading and meter serial number. Even with smart meters, a photo helps if readings don’t transmit correctly.

I’m on a fixed tariff—should I take it with me?

Maybe. Check (1) whether your supplier allows tariff transfer to the new address, (2) whether the new property’s meter type qualifies, and (3) any exit fees if you leave. Even if it’s transferable, it’s worth comparing current deals for the new home.

What if the property has a prepayment meter?

You can still switch, but you must compare prepay-compatible tariffs. If you want to move to credit billing and Direct Debit, you may need a meter exchange and (depending on supplier) a credit/eligibility check. Tenants may also need landlord permission for meter changes.

Do I need to switch gas and electricity together?

No. Dual-fuel can be convenient, but separate suppliers can sometimes be cheaper depending on tariffs available in your region and your meter type(s). Always compare total cost, not just unit rates.

What if I think I’m being billed for the previous occupier’s usage?

Contact the supplier and provide your move-in date plus your opening readings/photos. This is exactly why documenting readings is so important—suppliers can correct the account start reading if it’s wrong.

Tip: If you’re unsure about your usage in the new home, start by comparing on household size and heating type, then update your estimate after the first month.

Trust, methodology and sources

Page ownership

Written by: EnergyPlus Editorial Team
Reviewed by: Energy Specialist
Last updated: March 2026

How we assess “cheaper when moving” (our approach)

This guide prioritises actions that typically reduce total annual cost and reduce the chance of billing errors during a move. We focus on what tends to make the biggest difference for UK households:

Tariff eligibility: availability differs by region, meter type (smart/prepay/Economy 7) and payment method.
Total cost: we consider standing charge + unit rate, not just one headline number.
Timing: we assume many people spend days or weeks on deemed tariffs after moving and can reduce cost by switching earlier.
Practical constraints: account registration, address mismatches, and meter exchanges can affect timelines.

Limitations: We can’t guarantee savings or tariff availability. Market prices change, suppliers update product ranges, and some homes (e.g., heat networks or complex metering) need specialist advice.

Sources (UK)

We link to these sources for regulated guidance. Tariff prices and product availability are not published centrally and can change frequently.

Ready to cut costs at your new address?

Compare whole-of-market home energy tariffs with your postcode and move-in details. Switching doesn’t interrupt supply.

Get my moving-home quote Re-check the quick steps

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Updated on 11 Mar 2026