Change of Tenancy

Notifying the Energy Supplier

• When a change of tenancy occurs, the outgoing occupant (or the landlord/owner) must notify the energy supplier that they are moving out, and the incoming occupant must inform the supplier that they are moving in.
• This can usually be done over the phone, online, or by email.
• If the new occupant does not notify the supplier, they may be automatically placed on a “deemed contract” with the existing energy provider, often at a higher tariff.

Final Meter Reading (for the Outgoing Occupant)

• The outgoing tenant or property owner must take a final meter reading for both electricity and gas on the day they move out. This ensures that they are only billed for the energy they consumed while living or working in the property.
• They should also provide the final meter reading to the supplier and keep a record for themselves, in case of any future billing disputes.

Start Meter Reading (for the Incoming Occupant)

• The incoming occupant should take their own meter reading when they move in. This reading serves as the starting point for their energy billing.
• Providing this reading to the supplier ensures they aren’t charged for any energy used before they took possession of the property.

Closing and Opening of Accounts

• The outgoing occupant’s account will be closed based on the final meter reading, and they will receive a final bill. Once this bill is paid, their contractual obligations with the energy supplier end.
• The incoming occupant will either continue with the same supplier or choose a new supplier. Their account will be set up based on the start meter reading, and they can select a tariff that suits their needs.

Choosing a New Energy Supplier (if desired)

• The new tenant or owner is not required to stay with the same energy supplier as the previous occupant. Once they have moved in, they are free to switch suppliers if they find a better deal or prefer a different company.
• It’s often a good idea for the new occupant to check the rates they are being charged upon moving in, as deemed contracts are usually more expensive than regular tariffs.