Moving house, how soon can you switch energy supplier?

ToomanyPies

My daughter and partner have moved to a new house that is currently supplied by Shell Energy. What is the correct procedure to switch to an energy supplier of their choice? Do they need to register with Shell Energy first? Or can they just make a switch application immediately? There are SMETS1 meters installed (Secure 100). Thank you for reading.

Gerry1

They should have registered with Shell and sent meter readings immediately upon taking possession.  They can then switch to the companies of their choice (separate suppliers are often cheaper).

Don't assume that the smart meters are being read remotely.

ToomanyPies

Thanks Gerry1. They took meter readings on day 1 and moved in 7 days later. I have just found and sent them a link to the Shell Energy web site which appears to have a "Moving home" link so that would be a good start.

Gerry1

They should start comparing with Citizens Advice and 'Which? Switch'.  They'll have to guess their likely consumption; 12000kWh gas and 2900 kWh electricity might be a good start, tweaking as necessary (e.g. property type and size, insulation, home during the day etc). Keep sending monthly readings and make sure that the DD is keeping up with the bills.