Cheapest fixed energy deal for new movers in the UK (right now)

Moved home and need a fixed tariff quickly? Use this guide to find an estimated cheapest fixed deal for your property, based on your meter type, payment method and region—without relying on guesswork.

  • What to do in the first 24–48 hours after moving in (so you don’t get billed incorrectly)
  • How to compare fixed deals fairly (unit rates, standing charges, exit fees, direct debit rules)
  • Two realistic cost scenarios with numbers (and what changes the “cheapest” option)
Get your fixed deal quote How to compare as a new mover

Estimates only. Availability and prices vary by postcode, meter type, payment method and credit checks. Always check tariff terms and exit fees before you switch.

Fast answer: the “cheapest fixed deal” for a new mover is the cheapest for your postcode, meter and payment method

There isn’t one universal cheapest fixed tariff in the UK, because suppliers price by region (your distribution network), meter type (standard, Economy 7, smart, prepay), and payment method (monthly Direct Debit often differs from pay-on-receipt-of-bill or prepayment). The quickest way to find your cheapest realistic option is to compare fixed deals using your actual address and meter details—then sanity-check the tariff for exit fees and any new-customer conditions.

Do this first (new mover checklist)

  • Take move-in meter readings (gas + electricity) and photos.
  • Find out your current supplier and tariff (you’ll usually be on a deemed/standard variable tariff).
  • Check if you have a prepayment meter or Economy 7.

What “cheap” really means

  • Annual cost estimate for your usage (not just low unit rates).
  • Standing charge can dominate for low users.
  • Exit fees can turn a “cheap” fix into an expensive choice.

When a fixed deal makes sense

  • You want predictable pricing for 12–24 months.
  • You can pass credit checks and pay by monthly Direct Debit.
  • You’re likely to stay at the property long enough to offset any fees.
Important: If you’ve just moved in, you normally can’t choose your supplier before the move. You inherit the existing supplier temporarily. You can switch once the account is set up in your name (often a few days), but you should register move-in readings immediately.

Compare fixed tariffs for your new home (whole of market)

Tell us a few basics and we’ll match you to available fixed deals for your circumstances. This is the fastest way to identify an estimated cheapest option for your new address, then confirm the exact tariff details before you proceed.

New mover tip: If you don’t know your annual usage yet, that’s OK. Start with a best estimate (e.g., property size, number of occupants). You can refine later once you’ve had a bill.

What you’ll need (if available)

  • Your postcode (pricing differs by region)
  • Whether you have gas + electricity or electricity only
  • Meter type: standard / smart / Economy 7 / prepay
  • Preferred payment method (e.g., monthly Direct Debit)

Get your quote

We use this to check regional pricing and availability.

So we can help if your move-in details need confirming.

We’ll send your quote summary and next steps.

By submitting, you’re asking us to contact you about energy options. Prices are estimates and subject to supplier checks and tariff terms.

How to find the cheapest fixed energy deal as a new mover

When you move, you typically start on the property’s existing supplier (often on a deemed or standard variable tariff). Your goal is to compare like-for-like, then choose a fixed deal that matches how you’ll actually pay and use energy at this address.

1) Lock down move-in details

  • Take meter readings on the day you get keys (and photos).
  • Tell the current supplier your move-in date and readings.
  • Keep your letting agent/solicitor completion date handy.

2) Confirm meter type & payment method

  • Economy 7 has day/night rates—don’t compare it as single-rate.
  • Prepayment tariffs are priced differently and may have fewer fixed options.
  • Monthly Direct Debit vs pay-on-receipt can change the price.

3) Compare the right numbers

  • Standing charge (daily) and unit rates (per kWh).
  • Exit fees and contract length (12/18/24 months).
  • Any conditions (new customers only, smart meter required, etc.).
Reality check: A “cheapest” fixed deal can be beaten by another deal for your household if your usage is different. For example, low users often benefit more from a lower standing charge than a slightly lower unit rate.

Two realistic scenarios (with estimated numbers)

Scenario A: 1–2 bed flat, electricity only (low usage)

Assumptions (illustrative): single-rate electricity, monthly Direct Debit; annual usage 1,800 kWh. Tariff comparison uses example rates to show how “cheap” can change.

Example fixed option Unit rate Standing charge Estimated annual cost
Option 1 (lower standing charge) 27p/kWh 45p/day ~£694
Option 2 (lower unit rate) 25p/kWh 65p/day ~£687

Calculation note: annual cost ≈ (usage × unit rate) + (365 × standing charge). Example only; actual regional rates vary.

Scenario B: 3–4 bed house, dual fuel (higher usage)

Assumptions (illustrative): gas + electricity, monthly Direct Debit; electricity 3,500 kWh, gas 12,000 kWh. Example rates show why unit rates matter more at higher usage.

Example fixed option Elec unit / SC Gas unit / SC Estimated annual cost
Option 1 (balanced) 25p / 60p 6.5p / 32p ~£1,824
Option 2 (lower unit rates, slightly higher SC) 24p / 65p 6.2p / 35p ~£1,763

Calculation note: estimated annual cost combines gas + electricity, each as (usage × unit rate) + (365 × standing charge). Example only.

Don’t over-focus on the headline “monthly” figure: some quotes assume a particular usage or include credit/payment assumptions. Always check the tariff’s unit rates, standing charges, contract length and exit fees.

Fixed deal comparison: what matters most for new movers

Use this table to shortlist fixed tariffs quickly. It’s designed around the most common new mover pain points: wrong meter setup, unwanted exit fees, and pricing differences caused by payment methods.

Feature Usually best for Watch-outs What to check before switching
12-month fixed Most movers who want stability but flexibility next year May have exit fees; prices can be higher than longer fixes Exit fee per fuel, tariff end date, direct debit assumptions
24-month fixed Homeowners expecting to stay put and wanting longer certainty Higher risk if you move again; exit fees can be larger Exit fee terms, whether fees reduce near end of contract
No exit fee fixed Renters/new movers who may relocate again Rates can be slightly higher; availability varies by supplier Confirm “no exit fee” for both fuels; any admin charges
Economy 7 fixed Homes with storage heaters / genuine night usage If you don’t use night rate, you can pay more overall Day/night split assumption; timeswitch hours; two-rate billing
Prepayment fixed Households that prefer top-up budgeting or have a prepay meter installed Fewer deals; switching can be slower; debt flags can complicate changes Whether prepay is compatible; any meter exchange required

Quick decision checklist: who a fixed deal suits

  • You want predictable pricing and can commit for 12–24 months.
  • You can pay by monthly Direct Debit (often the cheapest payment method).
  • You’re confident about your meter type (or can confirm it quickly).
  • You’ll stay long enough that any exit fees are unlikely to matter.

Who it may not suit (or needs extra care)

  • You expect to move again soon (look for low/no exit fees).
  • You’re on Economy 7 but don’t use night-rate meaningfully.
  • You have a prepayment meter and want a credit meter (may require a meter change).
  • You’re in the middle of a supplier or landlord dispute about move-in readings.
New mover rule of thumb: If you’re unsure you’ll stay put, prioritise a fix with low or no exit fees even if the headline estimate is slightly higher.

Costs, exclusions and common new mover pitfalls

These are the issues that most often stop a “cheap fixed deal” being genuinely cheap once you move in and start getting bills.

1) Exit fees and moving again

Many fixed tariffs include exit fees per fuel. If you switch again or move out mid-contract, fees can apply unless your supplier waives them in specific circumstances.

Check: exit fee amount, whether it’s per fuel, and any “fee-free” window near the end date.

2) Direct Debit assumptions

The cheapest fixed rates are often tied to monthly Direct Debit. If you prefer pay-on-receipt-of-bill or can’t set up a DD immediately, your available prices may change.

Check: the tariff’s payment method and whether rates differ by payment type.

3) Meter type mismatch (Economy 7 / prepay)

If your property has Economy 7 or a prepayment meter, single-rate credit tariffs may not apply until the meter setup is confirmed (and sometimes changed).

Check: whether the tariff is two-rate, prepay-compatible, or needs a meter exchange.

Other exclusions to be aware of

  • New-customer-only fixed deals (existing customers may see different rates).
  • Credit checks or payment history requirements.
  • Smart meter requirements for certain tariffs or features.
  • Heat networks (communal heating) usually aren’t switchable in the same way.

Common billing pitfalls (and how to avoid them)

  • Not providing move-in readings: can lead to being billed for previous occupant’s usage.
  • Wrong move-in date: keep your tenancy start/completion date.
  • Switching before account is set up: you can start comparing immediately, but switching may not complete until your details are registered.
  • Underestimating usage: can cause Direct Debit to be adjusted later.
If something looks wrong on your first bill: raise it with the supplier promptly and provide your move-in readings/photos. If you’re struggling, Citizens Advice has step-by-step support for energy billing issues.

FAQs: cheapest fixed energy deals for new movers

1) Can I switch supplier as soon as I move in?

You can start comparing immediately, but switching usually goes smoother once the current supplier has set up your account at the new address. Register your move-in readings first to avoid billing disputes.

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

Often the previous occupier, letting agent or landlord will know. If not, you can contact the local electricity distribution network operator for your region or ask your current supplier to help identify the MPAN/MPRN associated with the address.

3) What if I don’t know my usage yet?

Use a realistic estimate based on property size and occupants, then revisit once you have a bill. A small change in assumed usage can change which fixed deal is “cheapest”, especially for Economy 7 or very low usage homes.

4) Do I need a smart meter to get the cheapest fixed tariff?

Not always. Some suppliers offer certain tariffs or features only with smart meters, but many fixed tariffs are available with standard meters. If a tariff requires a smart meter, confirm what happens if installation is delayed or not possible.

5) Are fixed deals always cheaper than variable?

No. Fixed deals can be cheaper or more expensive than variable depending on market pricing at the time and the tariff’s standing charges, unit rates and fees. Fixed deals are primarily about price certainty for the term.

6) What is a “deemed” tariff and should I stay on it?

A deemed tariff is what you’re placed on automatically when you move into a property supplied by a company you haven’t chosen yet. It’s usually a standard variable tariff. You can usually switch away once your account is set up and readings are agreed.

7) What if my new home has a prepayment meter but I want to pay monthly?

You may need a meter exchange to move from prepay to a credit meter, subject to supplier policies and checks. This can take time. In the meantime, compare prepayment-capable fixed deals so you’re not stuck on a poor-value option.

8) Will I pay exit fees if I move again?

Possibly. Exit fees depend on your tariff terms. Some suppliers waive fees if you move and take the tariff with you (where possible), while others may apply fees if the contract ends early. Always check the specific tariff rules.

Trust, transparency and how we assess “cheapest”

Page details

Reviewed by:
Energy Specialist
Last updated:
May 2026

Our methodology (plain English)

When people search for the “cheapest fixed energy deal”, they usually mean: the lowest estimated annual cost for a fixed tariff they can actually take. For new movers, we put extra weight on eligibility and hidden costs.

  • We compare estimated annual costs using unit rates (p/kWh) and standing charges (p/day), then consider contract length and fees.
  • We treat “cheapest” as postcode-specific because regional charges and supplier pricing differ across Great Britain (and tariffs vary by address).
  • We include new mover constraints: deemed tariffs, meter type (Economy 7/prepay), payment method, and the chance you’ll move again.
  • We prioritise clarity: exit fees, direct debit requirements, and any smart meter conditions must be checked before switching.
Limitations: This guide can’t name a single nationwide cheapest fixed deal, because supplier pricing changes frequently and varies by region, meter type, payment method, and individual eligibility. Use the quote form to get options for your address, then verify the tariff facts before you proceed.

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Updated on 22 May 2026