Commercial to domestic

Mangaseimai

Hi

Is it possible to change a commercial electricity meter to a domestic meter, and if so what would need to be done?

Thanks

[Deleted User]

Hi,

depending on setup, you might only need a change of tariff.

Cardew

Also on a domestic tariff VAT is 5% not 20%.

Have the premises changed purpose - from commercial to residential?

Mangaseimai

Well the meter is in our house which supplies both the house and the shop attached. At the moment the elec is supplied by a commercial supplier but as the shop is now vacant we want to switch to domestic rates.

So what needs to be done, is it as simple as informing the new supplier or will the meter need to be changed?

Thanks

Cardew

A fixed term contract probably exists with the commercial supplier. Are the bills in your name? If so you might have troubles.

Will the shop be permanantly empty?

Really the house and shop should be on separate meters.

Mangaseimai

The shop was previously rented out to someone else, they've now gone so we have changed the tenancy over and we are now paying out of contract rates until we switch suppliers.

The shop will remain empty until the property is sold.

As the meter is in the house we would rather keep that as a domestic and if the new owners want they can put a separate meter in the shop.

Cardew

Changing it to domestic isn't a problem IF the commercial supplier will release you from contract - in any case you shouldn't be paying 20% VAT.

Mangaseimai

Yes the current supplier will release the supply as we haven't entered into another contract.

Cardew

Then just apply to the supplier of your choice. Ensure that you tell them that it is now a residential property, otherwise they will take it over as a business account. Make sure you confirm this in writing!

Mangaseimai

Will do, thanks Cardew for your advice.