Moving Home: Gas and Electricity Checklist
Last updated: 22 October 2026
Moving home is a good time to check your energy accounts, but the first priority is an accurate handover. Keep readings and dates so you can challenge an estimated final bill.
Before you leave
Tell your supplier your moving date and forwarding address. Ask what happens to your tariff, any exit fees and account credit. Do not assume a fixed tariff automatically moves with you. Record the meter serial numbers and take clear dated photos of the readings on departure.
At your new home
Take opening readings as soon as you move in, including every register on a multi-rate meter. Identify the existing supplier and contact it to set up your account. You may initially be supplied under a deemed contract; check its terms while deciding whether to switch.
Check the final bill and credit
Compare the closing readings and dates on the final bill with your records. Ofgem says suppliers must take steps to return credit on closed accounts. Follow up with the supplier if the refund has not arrived, keeping copies of correspondence. If a reading is wrong, ask for a corrected bill.
Compare tariffs using your own household
Your old home’s usage may not reflect the new property. Compare unit rates, standing charges, payment method and exit fees, not just a quoted monthly payment. The price cap limits rates on covered default tariffs; it is not a maximum total household bill.
Frequently asked questions
Should I cancel my Direct Debit immediately?
Ask your supplier how the final bill and refund will be handled before stopping payment. Cancelling the payment instruction does not close the energy account.
Can I choose a new supplier when I move in?
You can normally compare and switch after contacting the existing supplier. Check the account details and tariff terms first.
Sources and further reading
Before you buy
Our listings are dated snapshots of providers' own pages, not live prices. Always check the price, contract length and terms on the provider's website. Nothing here is financial or insurance advice.