Can I get a cheaper energy tariff if I'm a tenant?

Often, yes. If you pay the energy bills and the account is (or can be) in your name, you can usually switch supplier or change to a cheaper tariff—subject to your tenancy agreement and any meter or building restrictions. If your rent includes energy, you typically can’t switch because you’re not the bill payer.

Do I have the legal right to switch energy supplier as a tenant?

In most UK rentals, tenants who are responsible for paying the energy bills can choose their supplier. A landlord or letting agent generally can’t unreasonably prevent you from switching, but you should check your tenancy agreement for any conditions (for example, returning the supplier at the end of the tenancy or restrictions linked to certain meters).

What if the energy bills are included in my rent?

If energy is included in your rent, your landlord (or their agent) is usually the account holder, so you normally can’t switch tariffs or suppliers directly. You can still ask your landlord to review the current tariff, or discuss moving to a fair usage policy if costs are high.

Can I switch if I have a prepayment meter?

Yes, many suppliers allow tenants to switch with a prepayment meter, although tariff options can be more limited. If you want access to more deals, you may be able to request a credit meter—this can depend on eligibility checks and landlord permission for any work required.

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

Usually not, provided you’re the bill payer and switching doesn’t require changes to the property. If a switch involves meter upgrades, smart meter installation, or any physical work, it’s sensible to get written permission from your landlord first.

Will switching affect my tenancy deposit or check-out?

Switching supplier shouldn’t affect your deposit. To avoid any disputes, keep records of meter readings when you move in and move out, settle any outstanding balance, and (if required by your tenancy agreement) confirm whether you need to switch back to the original supplier before leaving.

What information do I need to switch to a cheaper tariff?

You’ll typically need your address and postcode, your current supplier details, your meter type (credit, prepay, smart), and recent usage (kWh) or an estimate. Having a recent bill helps, but you can often switch using estimated usage if you don’t have one.

How long does an energy switch take and will my supply be interrupted?

A switch usually completes within a few working days, and your gas/electricity supply won’t be interrupted. You may have a short cooling-off period depending on how you sign up. Always provide an opening meter reading to ensure accurate billing.

Can I switch if I’m in a shared house (HMO)?

It depends on who is named on the energy account. If one tenant (or the tenants jointly) is responsible for the bills, you can usually switch with everyone’s agreement. If the landlord pays the bills and charges you separately, tenants typically can’t switch directly.

What’s the quickest way to see if I can save as a tenant?

Start by confirming you’re the bill payer and that your tenancy doesn’t restrict switching. Then compare available tariffs for your address and meter type, and switch online. To explore options with EnergyPlus, visit https://www.energyplus.co.uk/ and check your eligibility for current deals.

Cheaper energy tariffs for tenants: what you can switch

If you rent in the UK, you can often still change energy tariff (and sometimes supplier) to cut costs. Compare whole-of-market options with EnergyPlus and see what you could pay.

Find tenant-friendly deals across electricity, gas and dual fuel
See whether you can switch supplier or just change tariff
Know what your landlord can and can’t control
Get a quick quote with your postcode and current details

Compare tariffs for my rented home Check tenant switching rules

No obligation. Home energy only. Availability depends on meter type, address and your current contract.

Compare cheaper tenant energy tariffs (whole-of-market)

Many renters assume they’re stuck with whatever tariff is already set up. In reality, most tenants can change energy tariff and many can also switch supplier—as long as you’re responsible for paying the bills at your rented address.

Use the form to get a quick comparison. We’ll ask for your postcode and a few details so we can match you to available home energy tariffs for your meter and region.

Before you start

If you have a recent bill or your online account, you’ll find your current tariff name and payment method.
If you don’t know your supplier, you can still submit the form—just add what you can and we’ll help you identify it.
Moving in soon? You can compare now and switch once your account is set up at the new address.

Good to know for tenants

If the bill is in your name, you’re usually free to choose your tariff/supplier.
If bills are included in rent, you likely can’t switch—ask your landlord/agent what’s included and whether you can opt out.
Prepayment meters may have fewer deals, but you can still compare and you may be able to move to credit (subject to checks).

Get tenant tariff options

Tenant tip: If you’ve just moved in, take a meter reading on day one. This helps ensure you only pay for your own usage and makes switching smoother.

Quick answer Yes—you can often get a cheaper energy tariff as a tenant if you pay the energy bill. You may be able to change tariff with your current supplier or switch supplier entirely, depending on your contract and meter setup.

Can I switch energy supplier if I’m renting?

In most cases, yes. If you’re the named account holder and you’re paying the bills for your rented property, you can usually choose your energy supplier and tariff—just like a homeowner. Where it gets tricky is when energy is bundled into your rent, or when there are specific meter and contract limitations.

You can usually switch if…

The bill is in your name
You pay the supplier directly
You’re not in debt to the current supplier (or you agree a plan)
The meter supports the tariff you want

You may be limited if…

Energy is included in your rent
You’re on a landlord-managed supply for a house in multiple occupation (HMO)
You have a complex meter setup
You’re mid-way through a fixed tariff with exit fees

If you’re unsure…

You don’t need to guess. Start a comparison and we’ll highlight likely restrictions based on your postcode and what you tell us.

Check deals for my address

Why it’s worth comparing tariffs as a tenant

Renting doesn’t mean you have to accept a poor-value tariff. A quick comparison can reveal options better suited to how you live—especially if you’re paying by Direct Debit, using more electricity than gas, or working from home.

Reduce wasted spend

If you’re on an expensive standard variable tariff, switching to a better tariff could lower your ongoing costs (subject to market rates and eligibility).

Avoid tariff mismatches

Some tariffs suit high evening use, others suit steady daytime use. Comparing helps you avoid paying a premium for a tariff that doesn’t match your routine.

Keep control when you move

If you move regularly, it’s useful to know the steps: take readings, close the account, and compare again for the next address.

Whole-of-market comparison We’re built for renters and homeowners alike—showing a broad range of available UK home energy tariffs, not just a limited panel.

No disruption to supply Switching tariff/supplier shouldn’t interrupt your gas or electricity supply. Your physical energy still comes through the same pipes and wires.

How to get a cheaper energy tariff as a tenant

Whether you stay with your current supplier or switch to a new one, the process is usually straightforward. The key is knowing what you can change—and when.

Check who is responsible for the bill. If you pay the supplier directly, you’re typically the decision-maker. If energy is included in rent, speak to your landlord/agent first.
Get your basics together. Postcode, your current supplier (if known), and whether you pay by Direct Debit, on receipt of bill, or prepayment.
Compare whole-of-market tariffs. Look at unit rates, standing charges, tariff type, contract length and whether there are exit fees.
Switch or change tariff. Many suppliers let you change tariff without changing supplier. Switching supplier may unlock different deals, depending on your meter.
Take meter readings on key dates. When you move in, move out, and around the switch date—this helps avoid billing disputes.

Tenant scenarios: what you can usually do
Your situation	Likely options	What to watch
Bill in your name (credit meter)	Switch supplier or change tariff	Exit fees, credit checks, timing around moving
Prepayment meter (PAYG)	Compare PAYG tariffs; potentially move to credit	Debt on meter, eligibility to change meter type
Energy included in rent	Usually cannot switch yourself	Ask about fair usage caps and how costs are allocated
All-inclusive HMO / managed supply	Limited—depends on setup	Sub-meters, communal supply, contract held by landlord/agent

Moving soon? If you’re within weeks of moving out, it may still be worth comparing—just check contract length and potential exit fees. For some renters, the better play is to choose a flexible tariff now and then compare again at the new address.

Tenant rights: what your landlord can (and can’t) do

A common concern is whether your landlord can force you to stay with a particular supplier. Typically, if you’re responsible for paying the energy bills, you can choose. Landlords can set reasonable rules about the property, but they generally can’t stop you switching supplier if you’re the bill payer—though there are practical exceptions.

Usually OK (tenant-controlled)

Switching supplier or tariff if the account is in your name
Choosing payment method (subject to supplier options)
Requesting a smart meter appointment (with access permissions)
Taking meter readings and disputing incorrect bills

Potentially restricted (property/setup)

Switching when energy is included in rent or managed centrally
Changing meter type where it affects the property (may need permission)
Complex metering in HMOs or blocks with communal supply arrangements
Switching if there’s unresolved debt tied to the meter/account

Practical advice If you plan to switch, keep a copy of your move-in inventory (showing meter location and meter serial number if listed) and email your landlord/agent if access is needed for meter appointments.

If you’re unsure whether your tenancy agreement has any clauses about utilities, check it and then compare anyway—many renters find they can change tariff with minimal admin.

Meter types that affect your tenant tariff options

Your meter setup can determine which tariffs you can access. Here’s what to look out for when comparing as a tenant.

Credit meters

The most flexible. You typically have the widest range of tariffs and can pay by Direct Debit or on receipt of bill (depending on supplier).

Prepayment (PAYG)

You can still compare. Some suppliers offer competitive PAYG options and, in some cases, you may be able to switch to a credit meter subject to checks.

Economy 7 / multi-rate

Best suited to homes using storage heaters or with higher night usage. If your usage is mostly daytime, a single-rate tariff may be cheaper.

Smart meters

Smart meters can make readings easier. Most renters can have a smart meter, but you may need to agree access with your landlord/agent for installation appointments.

Complex / communal metering

Some flats and HMOs have arrangements that limit switching. If you have sub-meters or a communal supply, your options may differ—tell us in your enquiry.

Common tenant mistakes that keep bills higher

A cheaper tariff helps, but renters often lose money through avoidable admin issues. Here are the pitfalls to avoid.

1) Not taking move-in readings

Always submit a day-one meter reading (and keep a photo). Otherwise you could be billed for previous occupants’ usage.

2) Assuming the “existing supplier” is mandatory

You can usually change supplier if you pay the bill. Don’t stay on a default tariff longer than necessary.

3) Forgetting to check standing charges

A low unit rate can be offset by a higher standing charge. Compare the total cost, not just one headline figure.

4) Switching right before moving out

It can still be worth it, but consider tariff length and exit fees. If you’re leaving soon, a flexible option may suit better.

Tenant energy tariff FAQs

Can my landlord stop me switching energy supplier?

If you’re the bill payer and the account is in your name, you can usually switch. Restrictions are more likely if your landlord pays the bills, energy is included in rent, or the property has a managed/communal supply setup.

If you need a meter appointment (for example, smart meter installation), you may need to arrange access through your landlord/agent.

I’m a tenant on prepayment—can I still get a cheaper tariff?

Yes, you can compare prepayment tariffs. Your choice may be narrower than credit-meter tariffs, but it’s still worth checking what’s available in your area.

In some cases you may be able to move from prepayment to credit, depending on supplier checks and whether there’s any debt associated with the meter/account.

Do I need my landlord’s permission to change tariff?

Changing tariff (especially with the same supplier) usually doesn’t require permission, because it doesn’t alter the property. Permission may be relevant if you’re requesting a meter change or need property access for an appointment.

What if utilities are included in my rent?

If your landlord/agent pays the supplier and bundles energy into rent, you usually can’t switch supplier yourself because you’re not the account holder.

Ask for clarity on how usage is measured (if at all), whether there’s a fair usage cap, and what happens if your usage exceeds it.

Will switching affect my tenancy or deposit?

Switching supplier or tariff shouldn’t affect your deposit as long as you keep the account in good standing and pay final bills when you move out. Always take move-out readings and provide a forwarding address.

What details do I need to compare energy tariffs?

A postcode is a great start. If you can also provide your current supplier, meter type (credit/prepayment/Economy 7), and how you pay, you’ll get more accurate results.

Still not sure which category you’re in? Start with the comparison form and add a note in your message when we contact you (for example: “tenant, bills included” or “prepayment meter”).

What renters like about comparing with EnergyPlus

“I didn’t realise I could change tariff mid-tenancy. The options were clear and I got a better rate for my flat.”

Renter in Manchester

“Helpful when I moved into a prepayment place—good to know what was actually available for my postcode.”

Tenant in Cardiff

“Simple form, quick follow-up, and no pressure. I felt more confident talking to my supplier after comparing.”

Renter in London

Trust & transparency We’ll explain your likely switching options based on your situation (tenant, meter type, payment method) and help you understand the trade-offs—unit rate, standing charge, contract length and fees.

Ready to check if you can pay less as a tenant?

Compare whole-of-market home energy tariffs for your rented address. If you pay the bill, you may be able to switch tariff or supplier—even if you’ve only just moved in.

Fast quote with your postcode
Clear guidance for prepayment and Economy 7
Support if you’re unsure who the supplier is

Start my tenant tariff comparison Read tenant FAQs

Tip: have a recent bill handy for the most accurate comparison.

Back to Guides & FAQs

Updated on 14 Feb 2026