Cheapest energy tariff for landlords in the UK (2026 guide)

There isn’t one single “landlord tariff” that’s always the cheapest. The lowest-cost option depends on the property’s meter, payment method, region and who’s responsible for the bills. Use this guide to choose the right set‑up and compare whole-of-market tariffs confidently.

  • Clear guidance for void periods, HMOs and all‑bills‑included lets
  • What to compare: unit rates, standing charges, exit fees and smart meter requirements
  • Realistic example costs (with assumptions) and a landlord decision checklist
Get your energy quote How to choose the right tariff

Estimates only. Availability and prices vary by supplier, region, meter type and credit checks. If tenants pay the bills, they choose the supplier.

Fast answer: what’s the cheapest energy tariff for landlords?

For most landlords, the “cheapest” tariff isn’t a special landlord product. It’s usually the lowest total annual cost tariff available for the property’s exact set‑up (postcode/region, meter type, payment method and usage) during the time you are responsible for the bill (typically void periods or all‑bills‑included lets).

Key point: If tenants are the bill payer, they have the right to choose the supplier. You can’t force them to stay on your preferred tariff, but you can leave the property set up to make switching easy (e.g., accurate meter details, no debt, working meter access).

Key takeaways (landlords)

  • Void periods: prioritise low standing charges if usage is tiny, but still check the all‑in annual cost.
  • All‑bills‑included lets / HMOs: prioritise predictable costs, no punitive exit fees, and tariffs that match higher typical usage.
  • Meter matters: prepayment, Economy 7/10, and some smart tariffs can change what’s “cheapest” substantially.
  • Compare properly: don’t judge by unit rate alone—standing charges and discounts/caps can flip the result.
  • Minimise admin risk: pick suppliers with good meter reading and account management, especially when occupants change.

Compare whole‑of‑market tariffs for a rental property

Use the form to request a landlord‑friendly comparison. We’ll use your details to estimate costs based on the property’s set‑up and show options you can choose from.

Before you start: If the tenant pays the bills, the comparison is most useful for void periods or when you’re setting the account up for a new tenancy. If you pay bills (e.g., HMO / all‑inclusive), comparing can help reduce your ongoing costs.

What you’ll need (2 minutes)

  • Property postcode (for network region and standing charge differences)
  • Meter type (smart / standard credit / prepayment / Economy 7)
  • Rough usage (or we can apply typical estimates—see methodology)
  • Whether you want a fixed deal or prefer flexibility (variable)

Two realistic scenarios (with numbers)

Scenario A: Void period in a 1‑bed flat

You’re responsible for energy for 6 weeks between tenants. Minimal use (viewings, basic heating to prevent damp, lights).

Assumptions
Electricity only, standard credit meter; 120 kWh over 6 weeks; standing charge 55p/day.
Estimated cost
Standing charge: 42 days × £0.55 = £23.10
Usage: 120 kWh × £0.28 = £33.60
Total ≈ £56.70 (plus any VAT as applicable; domestic energy is typically priced inclusive).

Why it matters: in short voids, standing charge can be a large share of the bill.

Scenario B: All‑bills‑included 4‑bed HMO

You pay the energy bills year‑round. Higher, steadier usage; more risk if you pick the wrong meter/tariff structure.

Assumptions
Dual fuel; electricity 4,200 kWh/yr at 27p/kWh; gas 14,000 kWh/yr at 7p/kWh; standing charge electricity 55p/day, gas 32p/day.
Estimated annual cost
Electricity usage: 4,200 × £0.27 = £1,134
Electricity standing: 365 × £0.55 = £200.75
Gas usage: 14,000 × £0.07 = £980
Gas standing: 365 × £0.32 = £116.80
Total ≈ £2,431.55

Why it matters: for higher usage, unit rates usually matter more than standing charges.

Important: The numbers above are illustrations to show what drives cost. Your rates vary by supplier, tariff, region and meter. Always compare the estimated annual cost (or the cost over your expected responsibility period).

Request your comparison

Tell us where the property is and how to reach you. We’ll come back with options and explain any key terms (like exit fees).

We’ll send your comparison summary here.

Optional, but helps if we need to confirm meter details.

Needed to calculate regional charges.

This can affect which tariffs you can access.

By submitting, you agree we can contact you about your comparison. Prices are estimates and subject to eligibility.

What landlords should compare (so “cheapest” stays cheapest)

When you compare energy tariffs for a rental property, focus on the total estimated cost for the time you’ll be responsible—then check the terms that can trip landlords up (meter changes, exit fees, and payment method rules).

1) Standing charge vs unit rate

Void periods can be dominated by standing charges. For HMOs/high usage, unit rates often matter more. Always compare the all‑in estimate.

2) Meter type & eligibility

Prepayment and Economy 7/multi‑rate meters can limit tariff choice. Some deals require a smart meter or a specific payment method.

3) Exit fees & tenancy changes

If you might need to switch when tenants change, a tariff with high exit fees can turn “cheap” into expensive quickly.

Landlord-specific checks

  • Who is the bill payer? Tenant choice applies if it’s in their name.
  • Void handling: can you submit opening/closing readings easily?
  • Debt on the meter: resolve before a new tenancy where possible.
  • Address & MPAN/MPRN accuracy: prevents wrong‑meter billing.
  • Customer service: matters when you have frequent occupant changeovers.

Quick rule of thumb

Short voids: look for a competitive standing charge and no admin hassle.

All‑inclusive / HMO: look for strong unit rates, tariff stability, and terms that won’t penalise you for changes.

If you’re unsure, start by comparing a fixed and a variable option side‑by‑side using the same usage assumptions.

Tariff types compared (landlord view) + decision checklist

This table won’t tell you exact prices (those change by region and supplier), but it helps you choose which tariff structure is most likely to be cost‑effective for your situation.

Tariff type Best for Watch outs Landlord tip
Fixed (e.g., 12–24 months) All‑bills‑included, HMOs, longer tenancies where you pay Exit fees; may require smart meter/payment method Check exit fees against likely tenant change dates.
Standard variable (SVT) Short void periods; maximum flexibility Rates can change; not always the cheapest long-term Useful “holding” option while you set up a better deal.
No/low exit fee fixed Properties with uncertain occupancy dates Unit rates/standing charges may be higher than stricter fixed deals Balance flexibility with cost—compare both options side-by-side.
Smart/time-of-use (where available) Some all‑inclusive lets with shiftable usage (e.g., storage heating, EV charging) May be costly if usage happens at peak times; requires smart meter Only consider if you understand the property’s usage pattern.
Economy 7/multi-rate (meter-driven) Properties with storage heaters/night-heavy electricity use Wrong usage split can increase costs Ask for day/night rate comparison using a realistic split (e.g., 60/40).

Decision checklist: who it suits / who it doesn’t

You’re likely to benefit from comparing now if…

  • You pay energy during voids and want to minimise standing charges/admin friction.
  • You run an all‑inclusive let or HMO and unit rates drive your costs.
  • Your current deal is ending (or you’re on a variable rate by default).
  • You suspect the property has the wrong meter set‑up (e.g., Economy 7 not used properly).
  • You want to avoid large exit fees because occupancy dates can change.

It may not be the right focus if…

  • The tenant is (and will remain) the named account holder and pays the bill.
  • You’re mid‑fix with high exit fees and no upcoming change in responsibility.
  • The property is being sold imminently (a no‑exit‑fee option may be safer).
  • You don’t have access to meter readings—resolve access arrangements first.

Costs, exclusions and common landlord pitfalls

These are the issues that most often stop a “cheap” tariff working well in a rental property. Use the cards below to avoid surprises.

Standing charges during voids

Even with little or no usage, you’ll still pay daily standing charges on most tariffs. If voids are frequent, factor this into your annual budget and compare on total cost over your expected void duration.

Exit fees and early switching

Some fixed deals charge a fee if you leave early. If the tenant takes over billing mid‑contract, the account and responsibilities can change—so consider low/no exit fee options when dates are uncertain.

Prepayment meters (PPM)

PPMs can reduce tariff choice and may complicate changeovers. If a tenant requests a meter change, there are rules around consent and safety. Always seek advice and follow supplier processes—don’t DIY changes.

Wrong meter / wrong address billing

Mix-ups can happen in flats and conversions. Confirm meter serial numbers and, if possible, the MPAN (electricity) and MPRN (gas). It saves time when switching or disputing a bill.

Important exclusions to be aware of

  • Business energy: This guide is for domestic (home) energy only, even if the property is rented out.
  • Supplier availability: Not every supplier serves every meter type or offers every tariff in every region.
  • Credit checks / payment rules: Some tariffs require Direct Debit or may depend on credit assessment.
  • Price cap misunderstanding: The Ofgem cap limits certain default tariffs, not all tariffs—and it isn’t a guarantee of the cheapest deal.

Practical steps during tenant changeover

  1. Take dated meter readings (or smart meter readings) at check‑out and check‑in.
  2. Photograph the meter serial number and the reading display.
  3. Notify the supplier promptly to close/open responsibility periods.
  4. Keep a simple paper trail (tenancy dates, readings, supplier contact).
  5. If you’re paying bills, set expectations with tenants about heating/ventilation to prevent damp and unexpected spikes.

FAQs: cheapest energy tariffs for landlords (UK)

Is there a special “landlord energy tariff” in the UK?
Usually not. Most suppliers price domestic tariffs for the property and account set‑up (region, meter, payment method, usage). Landlords typically choose a standard domestic tariff when they’re responsible for the bills (e.g., voids, HMOs, all‑inclusive lets).
Can a landlord choose the energy supplier for tenants?
If the tenant is the bill payer (account in their name), they can choose and switch supplier. You can’t normally prevent switching. If you pay the bills (all‑inclusive), you choose the supplier because the account is in your name.
What’s the cheapest approach for void periods?
Often it’s a flexible tariff (commonly a variable option) with competitive standing charges and minimal admin hassle. But the only reliable way is to compare the total cost for your expected void duration using your meter type and postcode region.
Should I fix my energy if I pay bills for an HMO?
Fixing can help budgeting because rates are typically more predictable for the fix term. However, check exit fees and eligibility, and compare against a variable tariff using realistic annual usage. “Cheapest” depends on the deal and your usage profile.
Do standing charges vary by region?
Yes. Electricity and gas standing charges can vary across Great Britain because of network and regional cost differences. That’s why postcode is essential for an accurate comparison.
What if the property has Economy 7 but tenants don’t use night heating?
Economy 7 can be great with high night‑time usage (storage heaters), but can be poor value if most electricity is used in the day. If you’re paying the bills, compare an Economy 7 tariff against a single‑rate tariff using a realistic day/night split.
Can I switch energy supplier when the property is empty?
In many cases, yes—if the account is in your name and you’re responsible for the supply. You’ll generally need meter details and up-to-date readings. If there’s an active tenant account, you’ll need to wait until the responsibility changes.
How do I avoid disputes about energy bills at move-in/move-out?
Take dated meter readings (photos help), record tenancy start/end dates, and notify the supplier promptly. If the property has a smart meter, confirm whether readings are being received automatically—don’t assume they are.

Trust, methodology and sources

Page details

How we assess “cheapest” for landlords

We treat “cheapest” as the lowest estimated total cost for the period you’re responsible for bills, based on:

  • Regional pricing: using the property postcode to reflect network region differences.
  • Meter type: smart, standard credit, prepayment, and Economy 7/multi‑rate eligibility.
  • Payment method: Direct Debit vs other methods where tariffs differ.
  • Usage assumptions: user-provided where possible; otherwise typical consumption estimates for property type where stated.
  • Tariff terms: exit fees, fixed term length, and any key eligibility constraints.

Limitations: Tariffs and rates change; not all suppliers offer all tariffs in all regions; and actual bills depend on real usage, meter accuracy and billing setup. For tenants who pay their own bills, this page is guidance only—tenants can choose their supplier.

Sources (UK)

We link to third-party sites for independent information. EnergyPlus is not responsible for external content.

Ready to find a tariff that fits your rental property?

Compare whole‑of‑market options for your property’s meter and region. We’ll highlight key terms (like exit fees) so you can choose with confidence.

Start your landlord comparison Read the landlord FAQs

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Updated on 22 May 2026