How do I find the cheapest energy tariff when moving home in the UK?

Start by gathering your new address details, move-in date and (if possible) your new meter type (credit, prepayment or smart). Take opening meter readings on move-in day, then compare tariffs based on your expected usage and payment method. If you’re unsure of usage, use typical household estimates and refine once you have bills. You can compare and switch via Energy Plus at https://www.energyplus.co.uk/ to lock in a competitive deal for your new home.

Do I need to switch energy supplier when I move?

No—you can keep the current supplier at the property temporarily so you don’t risk losing supply. However, you can usually switch soon after you’ve moved in. Taking accurate opening readings and registering your occupancy helps ensure your first bill is correct before you change tariff or supplier.

What information do I need to switch energy at a new address?

Typically you’ll need your new address and postcode, the name on the account, contact details, your bank details (for Direct Debit), and your meter details. If you can, note the MPAN (electricity) and MPRN (gas) from a bill or the meter, and provide opening readings on the day you move in.

When should I take meter readings when moving house?

Take photos and record your gas and electricity meter readings on the day you get the keys (or the day you move in), ideally with a timestamp. Submit those readings to the current supplier for the property and keep a copy for your records. This helps prevent being charged for the previous occupier’s usage.

Can I switch energy supplier before I move in?

In many cases, you can initiate a switch shortly after you become responsible for the property. If you’re completing on a set date, you can prepare by comparing deals in advance and then start the switch once you have your opening readings and the account is in your name.

How long does it take to switch energy suppliers in the UK?

Switching times can vary by supplier and circumstances, but many switches complete within a few working days to a few weeks. Your energy supply won’t be interrupted during the switch.

Will I pay exit fees if I switch when moving house?

It depends on your current tariff terms. Some fixed deals may include exit fees, while others don’t. Check your contract before switching. If you’re moving into a property with an existing supplier, you’re typically placed on a deemed tariff at first, which usually doesn’t have exit fees—making it easier to switch to a cheaper option.

What is a deemed tariff and is it more expensive?

A deemed tariff is the default rate you’re placed on when you move into a property and haven’t agreed a tariff with the existing supplier. It can be higher than competitive fixed or discounted deals, which is why comparing options and switching promptly can reduce costs.

Is it cheaper to pay by Direct Debit when moving into a new home?

Often, yes. Many tariffs offer lower rates for customers paying by Direct Debit compared with cash, cheque or some other methods. When comparing, make sure you select the correct payment method to see the most accurate pricing for your situation.

How can I get a quote if I don’t know my energy usage yet?

Use household estimates (for example, based on number of bedrooms and occupants) to compare tariffs, then update your supplier once you have actual readings and your first bill. You can still switch to a competitive deal now and refine later. Compare options at https://www.energyplus.co.uk/.

What should I do if the new home has a prepayment meter?

Take opening readings (and photos), ask the existing supplier to register you as the new occupier, and ensure any previous debt is not assigned to you. You can compare prepayment tariffs and, where eligible, request to change to a credit meter or smart meter depending on supplier criteria.

What’s the fastest way to start saving on energy after moving?

1) Take opening readings on move-in day, 2) confirm the current supplier for the property, 3) compare tariffs using your estimated usage and preferred payment method, and 4) switch to a better deal. You can start your comparison and switch journey with Energy Plus at https://www.energyplus.co.uk/.

Cheapest energy tariff for new home movers (UK)

Moving home is the best time to reset your energy deal. Compare whole-of-market tariffs for your new address, understand what affects price, and switch with confidence.

Find estimated cheapest tariffs for your postcode, meter and payment type
Learn what to do with the existing supplier (and when not to switch yet)
See real-world examples, common pitfalls and a movers’ checklist

Get your energy quote How switching works when you move

Estimates vary by region, meter type, usage, payment method and eligibility. Always check tariff terms and supplier confirmation before you switch.

Fast answer: what’s the cheapest tariff when you move?

There isn’t one single “cheapest energy tariff” for all new home movers in the UK. The cheapest option depends on your new postcode (regional rates), your meter type (single-rate vs Economy 7 / smart), how you pay (direct debit usually lower than cash/cheque), and your expected usage.

In most moving situations: you’ll start on the property’s existing supplier’s deemed or standard variable tariff. That’s usually not the cheapest long-term option, but it can be the safest short-term option until your opening meter readings are accepted.

Key takeaways for movers

Take opening readings (or smart meter photo/screenshots) on moving day.
Register with the current supplier first, then compare.
Compare on your new address, not your old one (rates vary by region).
Check tariff type: fixed vs variable; exit fees; price cap relevance.
Match your meter: Economy 7 and prepay have different options.

When “cheapest” might not be best

If you might move again soon (exit fees can outweigh savings).
If your opening read is disputed (switching can be delayed).
If you have a prepayment meter and need to keep supply stable first.
If you value customer service or green credentials over the lowest unit rate.

Compare tariffs for your new home (whole of market)

Use the details you know now. If you don’t have exact annual usage yet, we’ll still guide you through a sensible estimate for your household size and property type.

Tip for movers: if you’re not sure who currently supplies the property, you can ask the seller/landlord/agent, check the welcome letter at the address, or use official lookup services (see Sources below) for gas/electricity identifiers.

How switching works when you move (simple steps)

On moving day: take meter readings (and photos), note serial numbers.
Contact the existing supplier: tell them you’ve moved in, give the opening read and your details.
Compare tariffs for the new address: choose fixed or variable based on your priorities.
Apply to switch: the new supplier normally handles the switch; keep paying until the switch completes.
Final checks: confirm opening/closing reads and your first bill matches your move-in date.

Important: your old property and new property are separate accounts. Make sure your old supplier has an accurate closing meter read so you don’t keep getting billed after you’ve left.

Get a quote (new address)

We’ll use these details to find estimated deals for your meter type and region. We’ll contact you to help complete the switch if you choose to proceed.

First name

Surname

New home postcode

Used to estimate regional unit rates and standing charges.

Meter type (best guess)

Some tariffs only work with certain meters.

Telephone

Optional, but helps if we need to clarify meter or move-in details.

We’ll use your details to provide estimates and support your switch if you choose to continue.

Tariff types compared (what’s usually “cheapest” for movers?)

Use this as a decision guide. Exact prices change and depend on your region, meter and payment method, so treat this as a practical framework rather than a promise.

Tariff type	Typically suits	Watch-outs	Mover tip
Standard Variable (SVT) / deemed	Short-term while you settle in and confirm readings	Often not cheapest long-term; rates can change (within rules)	Use it as a safe default for a few weeks if needed, then compare
Fixed (12–24 months)	People who want predictable payments	Exit fees may apply; check what happens if you move again	Look for low/no exit fee if your plans aren’t settled
Tracker / variable linked to a reference	People comfortable with price movement	Can rise; terms vary widely by supplier	Read the link mechanism and notice period carefully
Economy 7 / two-rate electricity	Homes with storage heaters / off-peak usage	Day rate can be higher; off-peak times vary by region/meter	Don’t switch to single-rate without checking how it affects heating
Prepayment (PPM)	Budget control; some renters	Fewer tariffs; topping up and debt settings can complicate moves	Confirm any emergency credit/debt on the meter straight away

Quick checklist: choose the right “cheapest” deal

Region: have you compared using your new postcode?
Payment: can you pay by direct debit (often lower) or do you need prepay?
Meter: single-rate, Economy 7, smart, or prepay?
Exit fees: are you likely to move again within 12 months?
Tariff features: customer service, app, smart meter compatibility, green preferences.

Who it suits / who it doesn’t

This guide is ideal for:: Home movers who want a clear plan, want to avoid deemed tariffs long-term, and need UK-specific checks (meters, regions, direct debit).
Less suitable if:: You’re moving into a property with complex arrangements (heat networks, landlord-supplied utilities, business premises) or you need specialist debt/support advice.

Costs, exclusions & common pitfalls (movers’ reality check)

A tariff can look “cheapest” but end up costing more if the details don’t match your move. These are the issues we see most often.

1) Opening meter reads not accepted

If the opening read is disputed, bills can be estimated and switching can be delayed. Take clear photos on moving day and keep them.

2) Wrong meter type (Economy 7 vs single-rate)

Two-rate tariffs can be great for off-peak heating, but expensive if most usage is daytime. Always confirm what’s installed before choosing.

3) Exit fees if you move again

Some fixed deals charge exit fees per fuel. If you’re unsure about staying put, prioritise low/no exit fee or shorter fixes.

4) Direct debit assumptions

Many “best buy” prices assume monthly direct debit. If you prefer quarterly bills or can’t set up DD yet, compare like-for-like.

5) Prepayment meters and move-in debt

Debt should not transfer to you, but prepay meters can be set up with existing configurations. Flag issues quickly with the supplier.

6) Standing charge shock

A low unit rate can be offset by a higher standing charge. Movers who use little energy should check both figures.

Rental caveat: If your rent includes energy bills, you typically can’t switch supplier for that supply. Ask your landlord/agent what’s included before you apply.

Two realistic mover scenarios (with numbers)

These examples are illustrative to show how “cheapest” changes with usage and tariff structure. Figures are estimated and use simplified assumptions.

Scenario A: 2-bed flat, low user, single-rate electricity + gas

Assumed annual usage: 2,000 kWh electricity, 8,000 kWh gas
Payment method: monthly direct debit
Example tariff options: Variable vs 12-month fixed

Assumption	Variable example	Fixed example
Electricity unit rate	26p/kWh	25p/kWh
Electricity standing charge	55p/day	60p/day
Gas unit rate	6.5p/kWh	6.3p/kWh
Gas standing charge	30p/day	32p/day
Estimated annual total	~£1,233	~£1,235

Why this matters: low users can find standing charges dominate, so the “cheapest” deal may not be the one with the lowest unit rate.

Scenario B: 3-bed house, higher user, considering a fixed tariff

Assumed annual usage: 3,600 kWh electricity, 12,000 kWh gas
Payment method: monthly direct debit
Exit fee example: £50 per fuel (varies by supplier)

Assumption	Variable example	Fixed example
Electricity unit rate	26p/kWh	24p/kWh
Electricity standing charge	55p/day	55p/day
Gas unit rate	6.5p/kWh	6.0p/kWh
Gas standing charge	30p/day	30p/day
Estimated annual total	~£1,687	~£1,599

Why this matters: higher users benefit more from lower unit rates. But if you left early, an exit fee (e.g., £100 dual fuel) could reduce or remove the benefit.

How to use the scenarios: plug in your own expected usage (or household size) and compare total estimated annual cost, not just the headline unit rate. If you can’t estimate usage, start by comparing tariff structure and exit fees, then refine once you receive your first bill.

FAQs for new home movers (UK)

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

No. You can usually switch, but you’ll normally be placed on a deemed contract with the existing supplier first. It’s often sensible to register your details and opening readings before switching to reduce billing disputes.

How quickly can I switch energy after moving?

Timescales vary. A switch can be quick, but delays happen if the supplier hasn’t set up your account yet, the meter details are incorrect, or opening readings are disputed. Keep paying your current supplier until the switch completes.

What if I don’t know my new home’s current supplier?

Ask the landlord/agent/seller, check any letters at the property, or use official lookup routes for MPAN/MPRN-related guidance (see Sources). If you’re without supply, contact the local network operator rather than trying to switch immediately.

Can I switch if the property has a prepayment meter?

Often yes, but tariff choice may be more limited. If you want to move from prepay to credit meter, suppliers may carry out checks and you may need landlord permission in rentals. Always ensure you can top up and keep supply stable during the move.

Is a fixed tariff always cheaper than a variable tariff?

No. Fixed tariffs can be cheaper, similar, or more expensive depending on market conditions and supplier pricing. The trade-off is usually price certainty vs flexibility (and sometimes exit fees).

What details do I need to compare accurately?

Ideally: your new postcode, whether you have gas and/or electricity, meter type (single-rate/Economy 7/smart/prepay), payment preference (direct debit vs other), and an estimate of annual usage. If you don’t know usage, start with household size and refine after your first bill.

Will I pay exit fees if I switch soon after moving?

If you’re on a deemed/SVT arrangement, exit fees are typically not the issue. Exit fees are more common on fixed deals. Always check the tariff’s exit fee and what happens if you move again before the end date.

Should I stay on dual fuel or split gas and electricity?

Not always. Dual fuel can be convenient, but the cheapest total cost sometimes comes from different suppliers for gas and electricity. Compare total annual cost both ways, and consider admin (two bills, two apps, two support teams).

Trust, methodology & sources

Page accountability

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

How we assess “cheapest tariff” for new home movers

Because prices vary by region and household, we focus on helping you identify the cheapest for your new home. When we compare or illustrate costs on this page, we use:

Regional pricing reality: UK unit rates/standing charges vary by distribution region and supplier.
Like-for-like comparisons: we compare on the same payment method and meter type where possible.
Total cost view: estimated annual cost = (unit rate × usage) + (standing charge × 365), shown separately for gas and electricity in scenarios.
Mover constraints: deemed contracts, opening reads, meter configurations and exit fees can change what’s practical.

Limitations: The scenario figures are illustrative, not a live quote. Actual tariff availability, prices and switching times depend on supplier eligibility checks, your meter details, credit status, and the information held for your address.

Sources and official help (UK)

Ofgem (UK energy regulator) – consumer guidance and market rules.
Citizens Advice: energy – help with moving, billing problems and complaints.
GOV.UK: find an EPC – check a property’s energy performance rating (useful for predicting usage).
Find My Supplier – guidance on identifying your electricity/gas supplier (where available).

If you’re in immediate difficulty paying for energy, Citizens Advice can help you understand support options and next steps.

Ready to find the cheapest tariff for your new home?

Compare whole-of-market deals using your new postcode, meter type and payment preference. No misleading promises — just clear estimates, terms and next steps.

Start my comparison Re-read the key takeaways

Accessibility note: If you prefer not to use the form, you can still use this page to follow the mover steps, capture readings and compare tariff types before you commit.

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Updated on 9 Apr 2026