What happens to the energy tariff when you move into a new home?

When you move in, your home will usually be on the existing supplier’s ‘deemed’ (often variable) tariff. You’re responsible for energy used from your move-in date, so take meter readings on day one and contact the current supplier to open an account in your name. After that, you can compare and switch to a tariff that suits you.

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

No. In most cases you can switch supplier and tariff once you’ve moved in. If you’re currently in a fixed deal at your old property, check whether you can transfer it to your new address or if exit fees apply.

How do I find out who supplies gas and electricity at my new address?

If you don’t know the current supplier, check any welcome letter, the meter, or ask the letting agent/previous occupier. You can also use the official supplier lookup services for your meter point. Once identified, contact the supplier to register your move-in date and readings.

What meter readings should I take when moving in?

Take clear readings for both electricity and gas (including any decimal/clock-style dials if relevant) on the day you get the keys. Photograph the meters with a timestamp if possible and submit the readings to the existing supplier to avoid being billed for the previous occupier’s usage.

Can I switch energy supplier immediately after moving in?

You can usually switch soon after you’ve registered with the current supplier at the new address. In practice, opening the account first helps ensure your switch uses the correct details and start date.

Is it cheaper to get a fixed tariff when you move home?

It depends on market prices and your preferences. Fixed tariffs can provide price certainty for a set period, while variable tariffs can change. Comparing options for your new address and estimated usage is the best way to decide.

What details do I need to compare and switch energy tariffs?

You’ll typically need your new address and postcode, whether you have gas, electricity or both, your meter type (standard, smart, prepayment), and an estimate of your annual usage (or your move-in readings to start tracking). Having your MPAN (electricity) and MPRN (gas) can also help.

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

Take move-in readings, keep any key/card left at the property, and contact the existing supplier immediately so they can set up your account and advise next steps. You may be able to switch to a credit meter depending on eligibility and a credit check, or switch supplier while staying on prepayment.

How long does switching energy supplier take in the UK?

Switching times can vary depending on the suppliers and any meter or account issues. Once your switch is initiated, you’ll receive a start date and updates from your new supplier.

How can Energy Plus help me find an energy tariff when I move?

Energy Plus can help you compare energy options for your new address so you can choose a tariff that fits your household needs. Start by visiting https://www.energyplus.co.uk/ and follow the steps to compare and switch.

Energy tariffs for new home movers in the UK

Moving house? Compare whole-of-market gas and electricity tariffs for your new address and get set up fast. Tell us a few details and we’ll help you find an option that fits how you actually use energy.

Check what you’re on now (standard variable or deemed rates) and switch when you’re ready
Compare fixed, variable and tracker deals from UK suppliers (whole-of-market)
Get an accurate quote using your new postcode, move-in date and meter details
Avoid common mover mistakes like paying higher tariffs by default

Compare tariffs for my new home See the mover checklist

UK residential energy only. Comparison is whole-of-market and based on the details you provide. You can switch now or schedule the change for your move-in date.

Compare energy tariffs for your new address

When you move into a new home, your energy supply usually continues automatically with the current supplier. Until you choose a new tariff, you’re typically placed on a deemed contract (often linked to a supplier’s standard variable tariff). That can be convenient for a few days, but it’s rarely the best value long term.

EnergyPlus helps UK home movers compare whole-of-market residential tariffs using your new postcode and a few household details. If you want to keep things simple, you can line up a new deal for your move-in date so you’re not stuck paying more than you need to.

Good to know: You don’t have to switch on day one. But taking meter readings and checking your default tariff early can prevent billing issues and reduce the chance of paying a higher rate than expected.

What you’ll need (takes 2 minutes)

Your new postcode (and ideally house number/name)
Your move-in date (or approximate week)
Whether you’re paying by Direct Debit and your preferred tariff style (fixed/variable)
If available: meter type (smart or traditional) and current readings

Get personalised quotes

Submit your details and we’ll match you with tariffs available for your new home.

Tip for movers: Take meter readings on move-in day and keep a photo. It helps ensure your opening bill is correct and avoids being charged for the previous occupier’s usage.

Why new home movers often pay more than they expect

The biggest cost trap for movers isn’t a hidden fee — it’s inertia. If you do nothing, you can end up on a higher default rate while you unpack. Here are the common reasons:

Deemed contracts kick in

You inherit the supply and often default onto a deemed rate until you agree a tariff with the supplier at the property.

Wrong usage assumptions

Different insulation, heating type and household size can change costs. Your old tariff choice may not suit the new place.

Billing gaps and delays

Missing move-in readings or supplier confusion can lead to estimated bills and backdated adjustments later.

Economy 7 / smart meter mismatches

If the property has Economy 7 or a smart meter, the tariff structure matters. Picking the wrong one can increase your unit rate.

Not checking exit fees

If you’re switching away from your old home’s supplier, a fixed tariff may have exit fees. We can help you factor that in.

Forgetting the moving timeline

You can often arrange a switch soon after moving in. Acting early reduces the time you’re on a default rate.

New home energy checklist (before, on and after move-in)

Use this practical checklist to avoid billing problems and get onto a suitable tariff faster.

Before you move: If you’re on a fixed tariff at your current home, check if it has exit fees and when your tariff ends.
On move-in day: Take photos of gas and electricity meter readings (including the serial number if visible). Keep them for your records.
Within 24–48 hours: Find out who supplies the property and inform them of your move-in date and opening readings.
In the first week: Compare tariffs for your new address and decide whether a fixed deal or a flexible option suits your situation.
When switching: Keep paying your current supplier until the switch completes, and don’t cancel Direct Debit unless the supplier confirms final billing is complete.
After the first bill: Check the opening reading matches what you submitted and query anything that looks estimated.

Moving into a new-build? It’s common for meter details to take time to appear on national databases. If you struggle to find your meter point details, we can still help you compare based on the information you have — start at Compare & get set up.

Tariff types for movers: what they mean in plain English

Different properties suit different tariffs. Here’s how the main options work for UK households, plus when they’re often a good fit.

Tariff type	How it works	Often suits movers when…	Watch-outs
Fixed	Unit rates and standing charge are fixed for an agreed term (e.g., 12 months).	You want predictable bills while you settle in.	May include exit fees if you leave early.
Standard variable	Rates can change. Often the default when you move in.	You need flexibility for a short period.	Can be more expensive than alternatives over time.
Tracker	Prices move with a published benchmark or formula (varies by supplier).	You’re comfortable with price movement and want potential savings.	Bills can rise; check the tracker rules carefully.
Economy 7 / time-of-use	Cheaper off-peak electricity at set times, higher peak rate.	Your home uses storage heaters or you can shift usage to off-peak.	If most use is peak-time, costs may increase.
Prepayment	Pay-as-you-go via key/card or smart prepay.	You need tight control of spending or the property already has prepay.	Not every tariff is available; topping up can be inconvenient.

Not sure which applies to your new place? Start with your meter type and how you heat the home, then compare options at Compare & get set up.

Meter readings, supplier checks and smooth switching

A clean move-in record prevents the most common household energy headaches: estimated bills, disputes over usage, and long delays in account setup.

What to do if you don’t know the current supplier

Check recent paperwork left by the previous occupier (if available).
Look for branding on in-home displays (smart meters) or old bills.
If you’re still unsure, start your comparison anyway — we’ll use your new address details to help narrow down what’s available.

Opening reading tip: If you can, submit readings online and keep confirmation emails/screenshots. That’s useful if an estimate appears later.

What happens after you request quotes

We review your details (postcode, move timing, contact info).
We match tariffs that are available for your new home (whole-of-market).
You choose between suitable options (e.g., fixed vs flexible).
Switching begins and you stay supplied throughout.
You get confirmation of start date and next steps (including final readings where required).

Already moved in?

That’s fine — you can still compare and switch. The key is to get your opening readings logged with the current supplier first.

Compare tariffs now

Common moving-home energy mistakes (and how to avoid them)

Mistake: Using the previous occupier’s details

Always set up the account in your name from your move-in date. Submit opening readings so you’re billed only for what you use.

Mistake: Assuming “dual fuel” is always cheaper

Sometimes separate gas and electricity deals work out better. Whole-of-market comparison helps you see both routes clearly.

Mistake: Choosing a tariff without checking meter type

Economy 7 and some smart/time-of-use tariffs can be great — but only if your usage pattern matches the pricing structure.

Mistake: Not planning for the first bill

Your first bill may cover partial months. Keeping move-in readings and dates handy makes it easy to check the charges.

Regional considerations across the UK

Energy availability and pricing can differ by region due to distribution areas and tariff structures. When you compare using your postcode, you’ll see offers relevant to your new location.

England

Different distribution regions can affect standing charges and unit rates. Postcode-based comparison keeps it accurate.

Scotland

Availability of specific tariff types can vary. Comparing for your address ensures you’re not shown unsuitable options.

Wales & Northern Ireland

Tariff availability and market structure can differ. Enter your postcode to see what’s realistically switchable where you live.

FAQs: energy tariffs when moving home

Do I have to stay with the current supplier?

No. When you move in, the supply continues with the existing supplier, but you can switch to another supplier. You remain supplied throughout the switch.

What is a deemed tariff for movers?

A deemed contract applies when you haven’t agreed a tariff with the supplier at the property yet. It’s common after moving and may be linked to a standard variable rate.

Can I switch energy before I move in?

In many cases you can line up a switch close to your move-in date, depending on supplier processes and the property’s meter details. If you’re unsure, submit your move details and we’ll guide you.

What if the property has a prepayment meter?

You can still compare available prepayment tariffs. If you want to move to credit (Direct Debit), it may be possible depending on circumstances and supplier policies.

Do I need meter readings to switch?

Not always, but readings help ensure accurate opening and closing bills. Take readings on move-in day even if you don’t switch immediately.

Will switching affect my energy supply?

No. There’s no interruption to supply when you switch supplier for a domestic property. The change is administrative.

What UK home movers say about EnergyPlus

A smoother switch starts with clear information and realistic options for your new address. Here are examples of what customers commonly tell us after using our comparison service.

“We’d just moved and didn’t realise we were on a default rate. The comparison made it clear what we could switch to and when.”

Home mover — Yorkshire

“The checklist helped us avoid a billing mess. We took readings, sent them straight away and switched after the first week.”

First-time buyer — Greater Manchester

“We weren’t sure about Economy 7 in the new flat. The explanation made it obvious what to look for before choosing.”

Renter — London

Trust and transparency: We focus on UK residential energy and whole-of-market comparisons. The best tariff depends on your address, usage and preferences — so we start with your details, not assumptions.

Ready to set up the right tariff for your new home?

Avoid paying a default mover rate longer than necessary. Compare whole-of-market tariffs for your new postcode and choose an option that suits your household.

Start my comparison Read mover FAQs

Moving dates change — that’s normal. You can still compare now and adjust plans once you’re in.

Quick mover summary

Take move-in meter readings (photo evidence helps)
Confirm the current supplier and your move-in date
Compare tariffs for your postcode and switch when ready

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Updated on 14 Feb 2026