Confused about Energy Supplier

PeterJames123

Hi,

My wife and have moved into a rental property a few days ago and signed the tenancy agreement. The letting agent gave us a move-in pack with a space for us to write meter readings for gas, electric, and water, as well as the keys. However, they didn’t explain what we’re supposed to do about the energy supplier.

There’s a bill from Scottish Power addressed to “Owner/Occupier” (dated 3rd September 2024) for the “Standard Online” tariff how you pay Direct Debit. When I contacted Scottish Power to ask about switching providers, they said they couldn’t discuss the account with me.

I’ve also tried contacting the letting agent for guidance, but I haven’t received any reply.

So, I’m a bit confused. Are we allowed to switch energy suppliers, or do we need to set up an account with Scottish Power first?

Would appreciate any advice!

DE_612183

You will have to take on the supply from the incumbent supplier from the date you moved in ( using the readings you took ) - then you can apply to switch suppliers.

mebu60

You need to set up a standard variable account with the existing supplier from  the date your tenancy started then you can switch after that. 

molerat

SP are the incumbent supplier so they legally supply the property.  You need to contact them and set up an account giving them the meter reads and the date you became responsible for the property.  Once that is done you are free to move to a supplier of your choice through the normal switching process. Anything you received relating to before you became responsible you need to pass on to the agent.

KittenChops

check your first bill asap - it should start from the day your tenancy started (regardless of move in date)
don't let them bill you for usage prior to that date - that's for the landlord to deal with

PeterJames123

Thank you for a 12 month tenancy should I get a smart meter, direct debit or does it not matter? Thanks

DE_612183

Direct Debit will probably be cheaper - depending on the location of the meter a smart meter and IHD will help you budget..

KittenChops

I think it's always cheaper to pay by direct debit (lower unit rate?) - some suppliers offer 'variable direct debit' (I think that's what it's called) where you only pay for the units you've actually used, but obviously you must have smart meters for that - otherwise it's a fixed amount each month based on estimated usage (if no smart meter, you should supply readings regularly to ensure you're not going to end up with a massive bill / overpay hugely)

Most (all?) suppliers nowadays say if you want anything other than standard variable rate, then you must agree to having smart meters (whether or not they can actually be fitted etc)

Landlord has no say whether you get smart meters installed (they belong to the supplier)

The energy forum on here is great if you want more details

theartfullodger

You can change your suppliers , billing type (key PAYG or credit) and change meter.

See Shelter website for excellent guidance for tenants .

Which country? E.g. Wales, NI....?

As in England anyone can set up as a letting agent with absolutely no qualifications, no training, no criminal records check not surprised you've had no reply.

Agent works for landlord, not tenant.
.

molerat

KittenChops said:

I think it's always cheaper to pay by direct debit (lower unit rate?) - some suppliers offer 'variable direct debit' (I think that's what it's called) where you only pay for the units you've actually used, but obviously you must have smart meters for that - otherwise it's a fixed amount each month based on estimated usage (if no smart meter, you should supply readings regularly to ensure you're not going to end up with a massive bill / overpay hugely)

You don't need smart meters for variable DD

Albermarle

I think it's always cheaper to pay by direct debit (lower unit rate?) - some suppliers offer 'variable direct debit' (I think that's what it's called) where you only pay for the units you've actually used, but obviously you must have smart meters for that - otherwise it's a fixed amount each month based on estimated usage (if no smart meter, you should supply readings regularly to ensure you're not going to end up with a massive bill / overpay hugely)

With some providers at least even if you have a fixed amount you pay each month, they allow you to change that ( within reason) if it seems you are building up too much credit.