using a gas/elec card instead of regular meter?

Stuart_P

i've looked thru martins guide but could not see my answer - is there any difference in price if using a gas/elec card to top up the meter or using a regular meter? i have a feeling the answer will be 'yes, do not use a card to pay for your bills, use a regular meter!'

if that is the answer -

is it easy to swap?
any major works reguired in the property?
does it cost to swap?

thanks

astonsmummy

I have my elec on a prepayment meter, it is a bit more expensive but i do prefer it, coz my gas is on a normal one, i was paying an amount each week and it wansnt enough so now i owe them £100, it shouldnt cost much if anything to put a normal one in but i'm not so sure, i would ring your supplier and ask, also it shouldnt be that hard either or need much work

Stuart_P

thanks. i've not got the place yet - i should be moving in a week or 2. but i know it is on a card system so would be good to know i have the cheapest option if possible

The_Economist

Dont go for the prepayment meter. It will cost you more in the long run. Stay on quarterly,direct debit or monthly payment.

Stuart_P

what about the card system though? that is in the place at the moment.

The_Economist

is that the prepayment one?

Stuart_P

its a card that you topup at say a post office - £10 or £20 a go

The_Economist

so you will be paying more then!!!!

The_Economist

The idea of a prepayment card is to stop people getting into debt. But what they dont tell you allegedly is that you are going to pay a premium rate.

Stuart_P

thanks for that. do you also know if

is it easy to swap?
any major works reguired in the property?
does it cost to swap?

The_Economist

If you are renting could pose a problem because the land lord might object. But if you are buying i cannot see that they an go against your request because you are the customer and owner of the property.