Moving homes involves a lot of work, including properly managing your gas supply during the transition. When relocating to a new property, there are several important steps you’ll need to take to ensure a smooth and uninterrupted gas service. Having gas in your home is not mandatory but it is mandatory to follow the gas and electricity legislation.
In this section, we’ll guide you through the essential actions to take regarding your gas supply when moving homes, such as notifying your current provider, checking for existing connections, and taking proper metre readings.
By following these steps, you can avoid unnecessary charges, disconnections, and disputes with your gas supplier during the moving process.
What should you do with your gas supply when moving home?
Moving homes can be a hectic process, and it’s crucial to remember to handle your gas supply appropriately. When you’re relocating, you’ll need to take care of several tasks related to your gas supply.
First and foremost, you should notify your current gas provider of your move to ensure a smooth transition. Depending on the provider’s policies, you may need to cancel your existing contract or transfer the service to your new address. Failing to do so could result in unnecessary charges or disconnection.
It’s also essential to check if your new home already has a gas connection. If the property is not connected to the gas network, you’ll need to arrange for a new gas line installation.
This process can be time-consuming and costly, so it’s best to start the arrangements as early as possible. You may also need to ensure that the existing gas appliances in the new home are in good working condition and comply with safety regulations.
Additionally, you should take metre readings at both your old and new properties on the day of the move. This will help ensure accurate billing and prevent any disputes with the gas provider. It’s also a good idea to check if there are any outstanding bills or debts associated with the gas supply at your current address and settle them before moving.
How to work out whether to update or cancel your provider when moving home?
When moving home, it’s essential to update your current gas provider with your new address or cancel your existing service, depending on the circumstances. You have two main options:
Update your address: If you’re staying within the same provider’s service area, you can update your address with your current gas supplier. This will allow you to continue receiving gas service at your new home without interruption. Most providers have a simple process for changing your address, which can often be done online or over the phone.
Cancel your current service: If you’re moving out of your current provider’s service area, you’ll need to cancel your existing gas service. This is important to avoid being charged for gas that you’re no longer using. Your provider will typically require you to provide a final metre reading and a forwarding address to ensure that you receive a final bill and any potential refunds or outstanding balances are settled.
Regardless of whether you choose to update your address or cancel your service, it’s crucial to notify your gas provider well in advance of your move date. This will give them ample time to process the necessary changes and ensure a smooth transition of your gas supply.
How to update your address online
Updating your address online with your gas provider is often the easiest and most convenient method when moving homes.
First, you’ll need to locate the provider’s website and log in to your online account. Most gas suppliers have a dedicated section or link for managing your account details. Once you locate the appropriate section, you’ll typically be prompted to enter your new address, along with the move-in date and any other relevant information requested by the provider.
Cozee have conveniently compiled the most popular gas suppliers in the UK along with the links to visit to set up an account or change your address.
| Gas supplier | Moving house page |
|---|---|
| EDF | Move house with EDF |
| British Gas | Online account for British gas |
| Eon | Link for Eon’s moving page |
| Scottish Power | ScottishPower Online login |
| NPower | NPower page |
| Octopus Energy | visit Octopus energy |
| OVO Energy | See online account |
What should you do if there is no gas supplier?
When moving to a new home in the UK that does not have an existing gas supply, there are several options to consider:
Get a new gas connection
If your new property is located near the gas network, you can apply for a new gas connection. Contact the gas distribution network operator (DNO) responsible for your area, such as Cadent Gas, Northern Gas Networks, or SGN. They will assess the feasibility and provide an estimate for the cost and timeline to install a new gas connection.
Consider alternative energy sources
If getting a new gas connection is not feasible or too expensive, explore alternative energy sources for heating and cooking. Common options in the UK include electricity, oil-fired boilers, or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) tanks. Consider the pros and cons of each option, such as cost, efficiency, and environmental impact.
Look at renewable energy solutions
You could also look into more energy-efficient and sustainable options like solar panels, air-source heat pumps, or ground-source heat pumps. These technologies can provide heating, hot water, and even electricity while reducing your carbon footprint and potentially saving money in the long run.
What’s more is they often fall into the government’s definition of low carbon energy sources you can read more about here.
Check for future gas network expansion
Find out if the gas network in your area is planned for expansion in the near future. If so, you may be able to coordinate the installation of a gas connection with the network expansion.
Consult with professionals
If unsure about the best course of action, consult with a professional energy assessor or a qualified heating engineer. You can find someone like this using the gas safe register here.
They can evaluate your specific situation, provide expert advice, and help you make an informed decision that suits your needs and budget.
It’s essential to research all available options and seek professional advice to choose the right energy solution for your new home. Factors like cost, efficiency, environmental impact, and personal preferences should be considered before making a decision.
What should you do if you have moved into a home with a gas supplier there already?
When you move into a new home that already has a gas supplier, the first step is to identify who the current provider is. This information can typically be found on the gas metre or any previous bills left by the previous occupants. Note down the supplier’s name and contact details.
First, decide if you want to keep the current provider
When you move into a new home that already has a gas supplier, the first step is to identify who the current provider is. This information can typically be found on the gas metre or any previous bills left by the previous occupants. Note down the supplier’s name and contact details and decide if their rates are a good fit for you.
Contact the gas supply you would like
Next, you should contact the existing gas supplier if you want to proceed with them and inform them of your move-in date. If you would like to move on with a different provider, contact the current provider to terminate the metre in the property and a new one so that you can still have gas in your home.
Provide them with your personal details, such as your name, contact information, and the property’s address. This will help the supplier update their records and ensure that future bills are sent to the correct person.
Negotiate on a deal
Before setting up a new account with the existing gas supplier, consider negotiating a better deal. Research the rates and tariffs offered by other providers in your area and use this information as leverage when speaking with the current supplier’s customer service team.
Politely explain that you’re considering switching and ask if they can offer a more competitive rate or any discounts to retain you as a customer.
Settle bills and arrange metre readings
It’s crucial to take a metre reading. This reading should be recorded and provided to the gas supplier. This step ensures that you’re only billed for the gas you consume from the date you moved in, rather than being charged for any usage by the previous occupants.
But you will have to talk with your gas supplier as not all companies take a reading and some will have to arrange it at a specific time for a gas engineer to visit your property.
If the previous occupants have settled their outstanding bills, you may need to set up a new account with the existing gas supplier. This process typically involves providing your personal information, contact details, and payment method preferences. Some suppliers may require you to complete a credit check or pay a deposit, depending on your credit history.
How to compare gas provider to get the best deals
You can either look at a few comparison websites to find out what the best deal might be for you or you can follow some general advice on how to find the best tips. Either way, the process includes using your due diligence to find out if a deal is right for you.
It is useful to note that cheaper is not always better and you may be compromising on a service from your energy provider that you don’t want to compromise on.
Comparison websites
One of the best ways to find the most cost-effective energy deal is to shop around and compare different providers. Use online comparison tools or speak with customer service representatives to gather quotes from various suppliers in your area.
Compare the tariffs, rates, and any additional fees or charges to identify the most competitive options. Popular comparison websites include the ones below.
| Rank | Comparison Website | Website Link |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | MoneySuperMarket | Go to comparison site |
| 2 | Compare the Market | Go to comparison site |
| 3 | uSwitch | Go to comparison site |
| 4 | Confused.com | Go to comparison site |
| 5 | Energyhelpline | Go to comparison site |
| 7 | GoCompare | Go to comparison site |
Our tips to get the best deal
Getting the best deal on your energy can be related to a number of different things. For instance, you may want to bundle a deal, look at what fixed rate tariffs are available or even look at general ways you can manage your usage.
Bundling gas and electricity
As you mentioned, bundling your gas and electricity services can often provide significant savings. Many energy suppliers offer dual-fuel tariffs that combine both gas and electricity into a single bill. By bundling your services, you can benefit from discounted rates and potentially save money on your overall energy costs.
Consider fixed-rate tariffs
Fixed-rate tariffs can provide price certainty and protection against potential price hikes during the contract period. While fixed-rate deals may not always be the cheapest option initially, they can offer long-term stability and help you budget more effectively.
Manage your energy usage
Reducing your energy consumption can play a crucial role in lowering your bills. Simple measures such as turning off lights and appliances when not in use, using energy-efficient light bulbs, and properly insulating your home can help you save money on your energy costs.
Regularly review and switch suppliers
It’s a good practice to regularly review your energy tariffs and switch suppliers if you find a better deal elsewhere. The energy market is constantly changing, and new offers and promotions are frequently introduced.
By staying vigilant and switching when appropriate, you can ensure that you’re always getting the best deal on your gas and electricity.
Take advantage of discounts and incentives
Many energy suppliers offer discounts and incentives to attract new customers. These can include cashback offers, vouchers, or other rewards for switching to their services. Be on the lookout for these promotional offers and factor them into your decision-making process when comparing different providers.
Consider online billing and direct debit
Some energy suppliers offer discounts for customers who opt for online billing and direct debit payment methods. These options can provide convenience and potential savings, as they reduce the administrative costs for the supplier.
If you are looking for more information on property management, please refer to our resources section for Cozee Properties.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it’s essential to notify your gas supplier of your move to avoid unnecessary charges or disconnections.
If your new home lacks a gas supply, you can apply for a new gas connection through the local gas distribution network operator.
You can usually find out who the current supplier is by checking the gas meter or any previous bills left by the previous occupants.
Yes, you can switch gas suppliers at any time, but keep in mind that you might be subject to contract terms or exit fees if you’re currently in a fixed-rate agreement.
Last Updated on September 23, 2024