How does new renter set up energy payments?

Alnat1

It's a one size fits all type key, simply to turn a lever that keeps the door closed. Google meter box key and there's plenty for £2 or so, pretty sure B&Q type places will have them too. There'll be something that fits in any standard socket set too.

pochase

sarahm73 said:

Thanks for all your replies, it is really helpful.  I now know gas supplier (Ovo) and electric (Octopus) and assume from previous comments that unlikely to be any better fixed rates to switch to?  Have also found water supplier (Eswater) and sewerage (Anglian).  I have same company for both water and sewerage so assume she will need to register with and pay both?  So far she can’t find gas meter but there are some cupboard doors outside flat that she can’t open, so assume will be in there but doesn’t seem right that she can’t access it.

If the key is not there she will to buy two for £1.69

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Starpack-21111-Gas-Meter-Box/dp/B006ZUCB0G/ref=sr_1_5?adgrpid=54870447284&gclid=Cj0KCQjwntCVBhDdARIsAMEwACmt9pd0TZlz20-L4pudAbKcErZelTzo0-1zoEGC2dTZzDtt1r67RAAaAiBoEALw_wcB&hvadid=259047376001&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=1006490&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=e&hvrand=12169298754443457791&hvtargid=kwd-319907289332&hydadcr=26247_1767772&keywords=key+for+gas+box&qid=1656009305&sr=8-5&th=1

Ectophile

If you're in a hurry, a small pair of pliers should also work.  Turn the triangular peg by about 90 degrees to unlock.

But the proper key is easier, and doesn't risk damaging the triangular bit.

QrizB

sarahm73 said:

So far she can’t find gas meter but there are some cupboard doors outside flat that she can’t open, so assume will be in there but doesn’t seem right that she can’t access it.

Nobody else has said this yet.

Both of those cupboards are meter cabinets. They each contain a gas meter. One looks to feed the downstairs flat, and one the upstairs one (look at the pipes going up the wall). Make sure you read the correct one, and check the serial number on the meter against the one you get on your first bill!