Switching from prepayment meter

fmd23

I'm moving into a rented flat this weekend. It currently has a prepayment meter from eon which I want to get changed as it is more expensive. I phoned eon and they said I cannot have a credit meter put in until I have been a customer for 12 months. Does anyone know if I can switch to another supplier and get rid of the prepayment meter? I have a good credit rating so that should not be a problem.

Garz

Apply to more providers and tell them your situation. Do you have an old address they can refer to?

Gambler

just been to view a house today with a prepayment meter. How easy is it to change to a normal direct debit facility?

I've been paying by direct debit for years now.

Terrylw1

Suppliers credit check you and if you haven't been with them a year they ask for a security deposit incase you run up any debt.

However, if you want to get your deposit back quicker than they want to pay it, just switch again and they have to refund it once you've paid the final bill.

If they are just refusing to change the meter I suggest you go for a switch to a company that will allow it. However, then you will still have to pay the security deposit.

fmd23

Thanks for the advice.

I contacted Southern Electric and they said they would change the meter for free if I switch to them which will be a relief.

Gambler

fmd23 wrote: »

Thanks for the advice.

I contacted Southern Electric and they said they would change the meter for free if I switch to them which will be a relief.

That was going to be my next question, The lady selling the property said British Gas wanted £150 to change the meter?

SwanJon

As said above, different companies have slightly different procedures.
If you have been their customer recently at another address with a normal meter they should swap it for free.
If not, they may credit check you to see if you are likely to keep up with your bills, then if you pass change it for free.
If you don't pass, they'll probably ask for a security deposit, which you will get back.
Even the deposit is worth doing (if you have it) as you can then get onto the cheaper online deals etc - possibly saving you that money over the year anyway (Depending on size of deposit and use).

There are various threads out there with other peoples experiences.