Cheapest fixed energy deal for new movers (UK): how to find it

Key takeaways for movers

• Act fast: deemed tariffs can be pricey compared to competitive fixes.
• Check exit fees: fixed deals often charge if you leave early (important if your move is temporary).
• Match the tariff to your meter: prepay and some smart meters have fewer fixed options.
• Don’t guess usage: use the home’s EPC, past bills (if you have them), or typical ranges to estimate.

When a fixed deal is often cheapest

• You expect to stay 12+ months and want predictable bills.
• You can pay by monthly Direct Debit (commonly the lowest prices).
• Your home has a standard credit meter (or smart meter in credit mode).
• You want protection from price rises during the fixed period.

When not to lock into a fix

• You may move again soon (exit fees can outweigh savings).
• You have a legacy multi-rate setup or complex meter arrangement needing specialist advice.
• You’re unsure who’s liable for bills (e.g., bills included, HMOs, sub-meters).
• You want maximum flexibility while you sort out the move.

Compare fixed deals for your new address (whole of market)

Use the form to get an estimated quote based on your new home. We’ll ask for the essentials so you can compare tariffs that fit your move-in situation.

How switching works when you’ve just moved

1. On move-in day: take meter readings (and photos) for gas and electricity. Note the meter serial numbers.
2. Find the current supplier: you can check your electricity supplier via the UK database and ask your landlord/agent; for gas you can use the Meter Point Administration Service (MPAS/MPRN check via suppliers or guidance sites).
3. Pay the deemed tariff short-term: you’re usually on a default contract until you choose a tariff.
4. Compare and apply: choose fixed vs flexible, check exit fees and payment method, then apply.
5. Switch completes: typically within a few working days for many switches (times vary). You’ll get a final bill from the old supplier and start paying the new one.

Get your quote

Tell us where you’re moving and how to reach you. We’ll use this to help match you to suitable tariffs.

Decision checklist (quick)

Choose a fixed deal if…

You can pay by Direct Debit, expect to stay put, and the fixed rates beat (or are close to) your flexible option once you factor in exit fees.

Choose flexible first if…

You’re sorting meter details, you might move again, or you want to avoid exit fees while you settle in.

Before you decide, confirm…

Meter type (credit/prepay/smart), payment method, standing charges, unit rates, tariff end date, and any early exit fees.

Two realistic cost scenarios (illustrative)

These examples show how “cheapest” can change by usage and tariff structure. Figures are estimates for illustration only, not a promise of market prices.

Assumptions: simple single-rate meters, no discounts, no EV tariffs, no time-of-use rates, and illustrative prices only. Your rates depend on region, supplier, and payment method.

1) Exit fees on fixed tariffs

If you leave early (move again, or switch to another tariff), you may pay an exit fee per fuel. Always check the tariff’s “end date” and early termination charges.

2) Meter type limits (prepay / smart)

Some deals are only available for credit meters paid by Direct Debit. If you’re on prepay, you may have fewer fixed options until your supplier changes your meter mode (where possible).

3) Higher prices for non-Direct Debit

Many suppliers price most keenly for monthly Direct Debit. Paying on receipt of bill or by cash/card can cost more, so compare using the payment method you’ll actually use.

4) Standing charges surprise

A tariff can look cheap on unit rate but have a higher daily standing charge—especially painful for low users or empty periods during a move.

5) Wrong readings = wrong opening balance

Take move-in readings (and photos). If you inherit an incorrect opening read, you could be billed for the previous occupier’s usage until it’s corrected.

6) Tenancy and bills included

If your rent includes energy, you usually can’t switch supplier. If you pay the bills, you generally can—but confirm with your agreement and the landlord/agent.

1) Do I have to stay with the current supplier when I move?

No. When you move in, you usually start on the property’s existing supplier on a deemed (default) contract. You can switch to a new supplier or tariff once the account is in your name and you’re responsible for the bills.

2) How do I find out who supplies my new home?

Ask the landlord/agent, check any welcome letter, or use official lookup tools. For electricity in Great Britain, you can use the national supply database; for gas, you can find the MPRN and current supplier through industry lookup routes. If you’re unsure, we can still start with your postcode and refine after move-in.

3) Can I switch energy supplier before I move in?

Usually, no—you typically need to be the responsible bill payer at the address first. What you can do before moving is prepare: take the meter details from the inventory if available, plan your payment method, and compare likely tariffs so you can switch quickly after move-in.

4) Are fixed tariffs always cheaper than the price cap?

Not always. The Ofgem price cap limits the level of standard variable tariffs (it’s not a cap on your total bill). Some fixed deals beat the capped variable rate, some are similar, and some can be higher—especially if they include certain features. Always compare the full estimated annual cost for your usage.

5) What if my new home has a prepayment meter?

You can still compare, but fixed options may be limited and prices can differ from credit meters. If you want to switch to credit mode or a credit meter, you may need a supplier assessment (and sometimes a smart meter setup). If there’s debt on the meter, switching may be restricted.

6) Do I need to give meter readings when I move?

Yes—take readings on the day you become responsible for the property (usually completion day for buyers, move-in day for renters). Photos help if there’s a dispute. This protects you from being billed for the previous occupier’s usage.

7) Will I pay standing charges even if I’m not using energy during the move?

In most cases, yes. Standing charges are daily fees that apply regardless of usage. If you expect a low-usage period (empty home, renovation), compare standing charges carefully.

8) What details do I need to compare accurately?

At minimum: postcode, whether you have gas/electric or both, payment method (Direct Debit vs other), and an estimated annual usage. If you can, also note meter type (smart/prepay), Economy 7/time-of-use, and whether there are any debt repayments through a meter.

9) I’m moving to Northern Ireland—can I use this guide?

Northern Ireland has a different energy market and suppliers than Great Britain. You can still use the principles (readings, deemed/default rates, comparing terms), but tariff availability and switching processes differ. If you’re in NI, confirm you’re comparing NI-specific suppliers and rules.

Page details

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

How we assess “cheapest fixed deal” for new movers

Because fixed tariff prices vary by customer and property, we don’t publish a single “cheapest deal”. Instead, we help you identify the lowest estimated annual cost among eligible fixed tariffs for your circumstances.

• Inputs that change results: postcode/region, payment method, meter type (credit/prepay/smart), single-rate vs multi-rate, and estimated usage.
• What we compare: unit rates + standing charges to estimate annual cost; tariff length; exit fees; and eligibility constraints (e.g., Direct Debit, prepay limitations).
• What we prioritise for movers: avoiding deemed rates, transparency of fees, and practicality (how quickly you can take control after moving).
• Limitations: quotes are estimates; supplier terms change; your final bill depends on actual consumption and billing dates. Some specialist tariffs (e.g., complex time-of-use or bundled services) may require additional checks.