What Utilities Do I Need To Set Up When I Move?
When relocating, utilities should be your priority. Account holders must close or transfer accounts; some companies won't permit changes otherwise. Those with legal power of attorney may make changes.
Remember: updating your address extends beyond utilities alone.
Step 1: Call Your Suppliers
Contact energy and water suppliers with minimum 2 days' notice for electricity. Water company notice periods vary from one week to 30 days depending on the provider.
Step 2: Send Final Meter Readings
Final readings show when you stopped paying for energy/water at your previous residence. Submit readings to ensure accurate billing aligned with your actual consumption.
Take meter readings if:
- Credit meter or smart meter installed
- Water meter present
Skip meter readings if:
- Pay-as-you-go meter
- Unmetered water tariff
Without submission, you risk being charged for unused energy. Store photographic evidence for one year; it serves as account closure proof if disputes arise.
Step 3: If You Have a Pay-As-You-Go Meter
Two options exist: exhaust remaining credit or request a refund from your supplier. Using credit is recommended unless you have a smart meter (which refunds to your account). Leave cards at the property for incoming occupants, ensuring no remaining balance.
Verify your new home's meter types beforehand — direct debit contracts don't transfer to pay-as-you-go systems and vice versa.
Step 4: Sorting Out Broadband
Close accounts without exit fees once contracts end. Moving your contract requires 2 weeks' notice; providers may charge transfer fees.
Step 5: Getting Your Waste Collection Sorted
Bin collection availability varies nationally. Your previous supplier may not service your new location, requiring alternative arrangements.
Need Help Setting Up Your New Home?
Moving house? Our experts at Selectra can set up your energy, broadband, and utilities in one free call — saving you time and money.
How Do I Set Up Utilities When Moving House?
After settling previous accounts, establish new utilities upon arrival. Your rental agreement or property type determines what you can arrange.
Renters should verify lease terms regarding bill inclusion. If responsible for payments and the account holder, you may select any energy supplier.
Step 1: Find Your Meters
Search for electricity, gas, and water meters immediately upon arrival. New builds may lack meters requiring supplier installation.
Common meter locations:
- Under stairs
- Under sink
- Cupboards
- Garages
- Property entrance
- Exterior meter boxes
Identify meter specifics:
- Electricity and gas meters or electricity only?
- Credit or pay-as-you-go meter?
- Standard or smart meter?
- Water meter present?
Take opening meter readings upon arrival for accurate first billing.
Step 2: Identify the Current Suppliers
Determine the existing energy supplier before switching. You'll remain with the current supplier 2-3 weeks before activation of your new account, even if switching.
Discovery methods:
- Ask landlords or previous occupants
- Check incoming mail
- Locate old bills
- Contact ESB Networks
Contact current suppliers to confirm previous occupants' departure. Request debt clearance on pay-as-you-go meters to avoid inherited obligations.
Step 3: Get Registered
You're not obligated to remain with the previous occupant's supplier. Switch freely without fees to potentially secure superior tariffs.
New supplier registration requires:
- Name
- Address
- Meter types
- Annual energy consumption
- MPRN number
Upon signup, a 14-day cooling-off period permits penalty-free cancellation. Switches activate 15-21 days post-signup if uncancelled.
Need Help Setting Up Your New Home?
Moving house? Our experts at Selectra can set up your energy, broadband, and utilities in one free call — saving you time and money.
Frequently Asked Questions About utilities when moving
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