Cheapest fixed energy tariff for new movers in the UK
Moving home? See how to find the cheapest fixed energy tariff for your new address—what “cheap” really means after the Energy Price Cap, and the checks that stop switching mistakes.
- Fast: what to do in your first 48 hours after moving in
- UK-specific: meters, payment types, regions, exit fees, and cooling-off rules
- Transparent: how we assess “cheapest” and why results vary by home
Figures are estimates and depend on your postcode, meter type and usage. You won’t be cut off for switching—your supply stays on.
Fast answer: what’s the cheapest fixed tariff for new movers?
There isn’t one single UK-wide “cheapest fixed tariff” for movers, because fixed prices depend on your postcode/region, payment method (Direct Debit vs prepay), meter type (standard, smart, Economy 7, prepayment), and estimated annual usage. The cheapest fixed tariff for you is the deal with the lowest projected annual cost at your new address once you include:
- Standing charge (daily cost) + unit rates (per kWh)
- Exit fees (if any) and contract length
- Any restrictions (e.g., must pay by Direct Debit, must have a smart meter)
New mover rule of thumb: take meter readings on move-in day, contact the current supplier to open the account in your name, then compare fixed deals once you know your meter details (and ideally your MPAN/MPRN). Your supply continues throughout.
Key takeaways (for busy movers)
- 1) “Cheap” is personal to your address
- Two people moving on the same day can see different prices due to region and meter type.
- 2) Fixing isn’t always cheaper than the cap
- A fixed deal can be higher or lower than a variable tariff linked to the Ofgem cap; you’re paying for price certainty.
- 3) Standing charges matter
- Low unit rates can be offset by higher daily standing charges—especially for low users or small flats.
What you need to compare accurately
- Your new home’s postcode
- Fuel(s): gas, electricity, or both
- Meter type: credit, prepayment, smart, Economy 7
- Payment: monthly Direct Debit or other
- An estimate of usage (or choose a typical profile if you don’t know yet)
If you don’t have usage yet, our comparison can start with a typical estimate and you can refine later once bills arrive.
What to do first when you move (so you don’t overpay)
When you move in, you inherit the supplier (not the tariff) until you open an account. Your priority is to get the admin right, then switch at the right time.
- Take move-in meter readings (gas and/or electricity) and photograph the meter display. For smart meters, also note the reading shown on the meter screen (not just the in-home display).
- Find out who currently supplies the property. If you don’t have a welcome letter, you can use the official services to identify suppliers (see sources below).
- Contact the existing supplier to set up the account in your name and provide the opening readings. This avoids estimated bills and prevents debt issues being linked to you.
- Check the meter type: prepayment, Economy 7, or standard single-rate. Many “cheap” fixes are only available for certain meter types.
- Compare fixed tariffs once you have the basics. If you’re on prepay, you may need a supplier that supports your meter mode.
- Switch. Your supply stays on; you’ll usually switch within a few working days, but times vary.
Tenant tip: you can usually switch supplier unless your tenancy agreement explicitly restricts it. If you do switch, keep the landlord informed if it affects metering or access.
How switching works for movers (plain English)
You won’t lose power
Switching changes who bills you. The gas and electricity still flow through the same pipes and wires.
Cooling-off period
If you sign up at a distance (online/phone), you typically have a cooling-off period. Exact rights and timelines can vary—always check the supplier’s terms.
Exit fees and fixed deals
Some fixes have exit fees (often per fuel). These can make a “cheap” deal expensive if you plan to move again or expect rates to fall soon.
Compare fixed tariffs for your new address
Tell us a few details and we’ll match you to available fixed deals across the market. Results are based on your postcode, meter type and estimated usage. You can review exit fees and key terms before you choose.
Before you start
- If you can, have your move-in readings handy.
- Not sure of your meter type? Choose “Not sure” and we’ll guide you.
- If you’re on prepayment, fixed deals can be more limited—still worth checking.
Privacy: we’ll use your details to provide your quote and contact you about your comparison. You can ask us to stop at any time.
Get your quote
Fixed tariff comparison: what to check (and a simple way to decide)
When you’re newly moved, “cheapest” can change depending on how long you’ll stay, whether you can pay by Direct Debit, and if the property has a prepayment or Economy 7 meter. Use the table below as a quick decision aid.
| Deal feature | Often suits | Watch outs | What to compare |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12-month fixed | Most movers wanting stability through a full year | Exit fees if you move again; rates may fall | Projected annual cost + exit fee per fuel |
| Shorter fix (3–9 months) | People likely to move again or wanting flexibility | Monthly cost can be higher; fewer choices | Total cost over your expected stay |
| Low standing charge | Low users (e.g., small flats) | Unit rates may be higher | Standing charge (p/day) and unit rate (p/kWh) |
| Economy 7 / multi-rate | Homes with storage heaters or EV charging at night | If you don’t use enough off-peak, it can cost more | Day vs night rate and your split (e.g., 60/40) |
| Prepayment compatible | People moving into a prepay meter home | Not all suppliers accept all prepay types; debt may be attached to meter | Tariff availability + support for your prepay meter mode |
Decision checklist: is a fixed tariff right for you?
- I’m staying put for most of the fix (or exit fees are low).
- I want bill certainty even if prices drop later.
- I can meet the eligibility (Direct Debit, smart meter, etc.).
- I’ve checked the standing charge and it still makes sense for my usage.
Who a fix may not suit (common mover cases)
- You might move again soon and exit fees are high.
- You’re unsure about usage and the fix has a high standing charge.
- The property has a specialist setup (e.g., heat network) where you can’t choose a normal supplier.
- You need extra support and prefer a supplier with specific customer service features (accessible billing, Priority Services Register support).
Two realistic mover scenarios (with numbers)
These examples show how the same “cheap-looking” tariff can cost more once you factor in standing charges and your usage. Numbers are illustrative only.
Scenario A: Low-use flat, electricity only (credit meter)
Assumptions: 1,800 kWh/year electricity; paying by monthly Direct Debit; single-rate meter; standing charge and unit rate vary by region.
- Deal 1: 22p/kWh + 70p/day standing charge → estimated annual cost: (1,800×£0.22) + (365×£0.70) = £653.50
- Deal 2: 25p/kWh + 45p/day standing charge → estimated annual cost: (1,800×£0.25) + (365×£0.45) = £614.25
Even with a higher unit rate, Deal 2 is cheaper for a low user because the standing charge is lower.
Scenario B: Family house, dual fuel (gas + electricity)
Assumptions: 3,100 kWh/year electricity and 12,000 kWh/year gas; monthly Direct Debit; comparing a 12-month fix vs a slightly higher fix with no exit fees.
- Deal 1 (lower rates, exit fees): Elec 24p/kWh + 55p/day; Gas 6.2p/kWh + 32p/day; exit fees £75 per fuel → annual estimate: £744.75 (elec) + £862.80 (gas) = £1,607.55
- Deal 2 (slightly higher rates, no exit fees): Elec 25p/kWh + 50p/day; Gas 6.4p/kWh + 30p/day; exit fees £0 → annual estimate: £757.50 (elec) + £876.50 (gas) = £1,634.00
Deal 1 looks cheaper over a year, but if you might move again and pay £150 total exit fees, Deal 2 could work out better overall for your situation.
Important: suppliers calculate “estimated annual cost” using industry assumptions and your details. Always check the Key Facts / tariff information before agreeing.
Quick definition: fixed vs variable (price cap)
Fixed tariff: unit rates and standing charges are set for the contract term (though other changes can happen under the contract’s rules). You may pay exit fees if you leave early.
Variable tariff: price can change—often in line with the Ofgem Energy Price Cap where applicable. No long-term commitment, typically no exit fee.
The price cap is not a cap on your total bill. It limits unit rates and standing charges for typical tariffs, so your total cost still depends on usage.
Costs, exclusions and common pitfalls for new movers
Most switching problems for movers come from meter details, account timing, or misunderstanding standing charges and exit fees. Here’s what to watch.
1) Opening readings and “estimated” bills
If you don’t provide move-in readings quickly, you may be billed on estimates. Photos help resolve disputes. Keep your tenancy/move-in documents too.
2) Prepayment meter debt confusion
If the meter shows debt when you move in, contact the supplier immediately. Your supplier can advise next steps; don’t ignore it.
3) Economy 7 mismatch
Economy 7 tariffs only work well if enough of your usage is overnight. If you’ve moved into storage heating, ask what the day/night split is likely to be.
4) Standing charges can outweigh “cheap” unit rates
If you’re in a small property or out of the house a lot, compare standing charges carefully. Daily costs add up regardless of usage.
5) Exit fees and moving again
Fixed tariffs may charge exit fees per fuel. If you’re likely to move within months, consider a shorter fix or a no-exit-fee option if available.
6) Not all homes can choose a standard supplier
Some buildings use a heat network (communal heating) or private supplies. In those cases, you may not be able to switch in the usual way for heating.
Tip: if you’re unsure who supplies the property, use the official “find my supplier” services (see sources). Don’t guess—wrong supplier details are a common cause of delayed switches.
FAQs: cheapest fixed energy tariff for new movers
Do I have to stay with the existing supplier when I move?
No. You typically start on the existing supplier (so the lights stay on), then you can switch. First, open the account in your name with move-in readings to avoid billing issues.
Can I switch before I move in?
Usually you can start comparing before, but suppliers may need you to be responsible for the property (and have the right meter/supply details) to complete the switch. Many movers switch shortly after move-in once they’ve got readings and the supplier confirmed.
Is a fixed tariff always cheaper than the Ofgem price cap?
No. The cap affects typical variable tariffs’ unit rates and standing charges. Fixed deals can be above or below it depending on market pricing. Choose a fix for certainty, not because it’s guaranteed to be the lowest.
What if I don’t know my usage yet?
You can start with an estimate (based on typical household profiles) and refine later. For accuracy, update your estimate once you’ve had a full month or two of readings at the new address.
Can I switch if the property has a prepayment meter?
Often yes, but your choice of fixed tariffs may be smaller. Some suppliers require a smart meter setup for certain prepay options. Make sure the tariff is compatible with your prepayment mode.
Will I be charged for switching?
Switching supplier itself typically isn’t charged, but a fixed tariff may have exit fees if you leave before the end of the term. Always check the tariff’s key terms.
How do I find my gas or electricity supplier for a new address?
Use official supplier lookup services for gas and electricity (linked in Sources below). These are useful if the previous occupier didn’t leave details or the letting agent isn’t sure.
Do I need my MPAN/MPRN to get the cheapest fix?
Not always, but it helps. Your MPAN (electricity) and MPRN (gas) reduce matching errors and can speed up the quote and switch process.
If I switch, what happens to my Direct Debit amount?
Suppliers set Direct Debits based on estimated usage and may review it. If your home or occupancy has changed, ask for a review after you’ve built up some real usage history.
Trust, methodology and sources
Editorial trust signals
- Written by
- EnergyPlus Editorial Team
- Reviewed by
- Energy Specialist
- Last updated
- May 2026
How we assess “cheapest fixed tariff” for new movers
We focus on what actually changes the price you pay at a new address. Our comparisons and guidance prioritise:
- Total estimated annual cost (standing charge + unit rates × estimated usage), not just a headline unit rate
- Eligibility constraints: payment method, meter type (including prepayment and Economy 7), and regional pricing
- Contract terms: tariff length, exit fees, and key exclusions that affect movers
- User fit: likely time at property, appetite for price certainty, and ability to provide readings/details
Limitations: prices and availability can change quickly, and some tariffs aren’t open to all customers. Your final offer and switching timeline depend on supplier checks and your meter setup.
Sources (UK)
- Ofgem (energy regulator) – guidance on the Energy Price Cap and consumer protections.
- Citizens Advice – Energy – independent help on switching, billing issues and moving home.
- Find My Supplier – official service to help identify your electricity supplier.
- Find My Supplier (Gas) – guidance for locating your gas supplier (where available).
- GOV.UK – general consumer and housing guidance relevant to moving and bills.
If a link changes, search the site name above (e.g., “Ofgem price cap”) to find the latest page.
Ready to lock in a fixed tariff for your new home?
Get an estimated comparison across fixed deals available for your postcode, meter and payment type—then review exit fees and key terms before you choose.
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