When can I switch?

stephenjames16

I’ve just moved into a rental property and have found out that the previous tenant was with British Gas for energy. I’ve called BG and they said that the old tenant has not informed them that he has moved out. They will have to cancel his account (7-10 days) and they will send me a letter with details of how to set up my account. Do I have to set up an account with BG before I can switch?

Also, I presume they will want paying for the energy I have used since I moved in. How do they know how much I have used though?

spiro

When you move into a property what you need to do is:
1) Find out who the current supplier - you've done that.
2) Contact them immediately and provide meter readings - did you provide readings?
3) Decide which supplier you want to be with and either change supplier or get the incumbent supplier to put you on the tariff of your choice. - You can do this immediately after you have done (2).
Them taking 7-10 days to close the old customers account is not your problem and should not stop you switching.

stephenjames16

2) they couldn't take meter readings because they need to close the previous account first.

This means I'm not a customer yet so I've not got an account to switch.

Do I have to open an account before I can switch, or can I go with any supplier?

dogshome

The rule is that you must sign up with the existing supplier as soon as you move into the property and give them the meter readings - They will automatically put you onto the expensive 'Standard Variable Tariff''

They will send you a 'Welcome Letter', and once you have this you are free to change to any other supplier you wish

PaschalFun

Pass all the details to consumeraffairs@ofgem.gov.uk and ask for your case to be included in the ongoing Ofgem investigation into British Gas.