Understanding Your Energy Supply When Renting
When you’re renting a home in the UK, understanding how your energy supply works is essential for managing your bills and knowing your rights. Energy supply in rental properties usually refers to the provision of gas and electricity to your home, and the responsibility for managing these services can vary depending on your tenancy agreement.
Who is responsible for the energy account?
In most cases, the tenant is responsible for the energy account. This means you’ll be the one who sets up the gas and electricity supply, receives the bills, and pays them directly to the energy supplier. However, in some rental arrangements – especially in shared accommodation or where bills are included in the rent – the landlord may keep the energy account in their name and charge you a set amount or include it in your monthly rent.
How do energy bills and accounts work in rented homes?
If you are responsible for the energy account, you’ll typically receive bills in your name and have the freedom to choose your supplier or tariff. If your landlord manages the account, you’ll usually pay them for your share of the energy costs, either as a fixed sum or based on actual usage. It’s important to check your tenancy agreement to see what applies to your situation.
Why does it matter who manages the energy supply?
Knowing who manages the energy supply affects your ability to switch supplier or tariff. If the account is in your name, you have the legal right to choose your energy supplier and seek better deals. If your landlord is in charge, you may need their permission to make changes, and your options could be limited.
What are your rights as a tenant?
Tenants in the UK generally have the right to choose their own energy supplier if they pay the bills directly and the account is in their name. This right is protected under the utilities and energy supply in rental properties regulations. However, if your tenancy agreement includes energy bills as part of your rent, or if there are specific clauses restricting changes, you may not be able to switch without your landlord’s consent.
Switching supplier or tariff: what should you check?
Before considering a switch, always review your tenancy agreement to see who is responsible for the energy supply and whether there are any restrictions. If you’re unsure, ask your landlord or letting agent for clarification. Understanding these details can help you make informed decisions, avoid disputes, and potentially save money on your energy bills.
For more in-depth information on your rights and the responsibilities of both tenants and landlords, see our guide on utilities and energy supply in rental properties.
Can You Switch Energy Supplier or Tariff as a Renter?
If you’re renting a property in the UK, your ability to switch your gas or electricity supplier or tariff depends largely on who is named on the energy account. Generally, if you pay the energy bills directly to the supplier and the account is in your name, you have the legal right to choose your own energy supplier or switch to a different tariff. This right is protected by Ofgem, the energy regulator, and applies whether you’re in a fixed-term or rolling tenancy.
However, some rental arrangements are different. If your landlord manages the energy account – meaning the bills are in their name and you pay them as part of your rent or as a separate charge – then you usually cannot switch supplier or tariff yourself. In these situations, only the account holder (your landlord) has the authority to make changes. This is common in some shared houses, student accommodation, or properties where bills are included in the rent.
Before making any decisions, it’s important to check your tenancy agreement. The agreement should state whether you’re responsible for the energy bills and if there are any restrictions on changing supplier or tariff. Some landlords include clauses that require you to inform them before making a switch, or they may specify a preferred supplier. Even if you have the right to switch, it’s good practice to let your landlord or letting agent know, as it can help avoid disputes later on.
If your landlord controls the energy account and you’re unhappy with the supplier or tariff, you can still talk to them about the possibility of switching. While you can’t make the change yourself, many landlords are open to discussing options if it could save money or improve service.
Understanding your rights and responsibilities is key before attempting to switch. For a broader overview of how the process works and what to consider, you may find it helpful to read more about switching energy suppliers.
In summary, renters can often switch supplier or tariff if they are responsible for the energy account, but should always check their tenancy agreement and communicate with their landlord or letting agent. If your landlord manages the account, you’ll need to discuss any changes with them. Being informed about your options will help you make the best choice for your situation.
How to Switch Your Energy Supplier or Tariff if You’re Renting
If you’re renting and responsible for your energy bills, you generally have the right to switch your energy supplier or tariff to find a better deal. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
1. Check Your Tenancy Agreement
Start by reading your tenancy agreement. Look for any clauses about energy suppliers. While most agreements allow tenants to choose their own supplier, some may require you to inform your landlord or letting agent before making a switch. If your landlord pays the bills directly, you’ll need their permission, as you can only switch if you’re named on the energy account.
2. Review Your Current Energy Details
Gather the following information:
The name of your current supplier and tariff
Your recent meter readings
Your address and postcode
The type of meter you have (standard, prepayment, or smart meter)
Your current energy usage (found on recent bills)
Having these details ready will make comparing deals and switching much easier.
3. Compare Tariffs and Suppliers
Use an Ofgem-accredited comparison site or research different suppliers to see what deals are available. Look at:
Unit rates and standing charges
Fixed vs. variable tariffs
Customer service ratings
Any exit fees or early termination charges on your current contract
Comparing tariffs can help you save money and find a plan that suits your needs. For more detailed guidance, see our advice on how to switch energy suppliers.
4. Contact Your Chosen Supplier
Once you’ve found a better deal, contact the new supplier. They’ll usually ask for:
Your full address
Recent meter readings
Your current supplier and tariff details
A preferred start date for your new supply
The new supplier will handle the switch, including notifying your current supplier.
5. Understand the Switching Timeline
Switching suppliers typically takes around 5 working days, but it can take up to 21 days in some cases. You won’t lose supply during the process. Your new supplier will confirm the switch date, and you’ll receive a final bill from your old supplier.
6. Inform Your Landlord or Letting Agent
If your tenancy agreement requires it, let your landlord or letting agent know you’re switching. Provide them with the new supplier’s details and the switch date. This helps avoid disputes and keeps everyone informed.
7. Watch Out for Fees and Contract Terms
Before switching, check your current tariff for any exit fees or minimum contract periods. Some fixed-term deals charge a fee for leaving early. Make sure the savings from switching outweigh any charges.
Switching your energy supplier or tariff as a renter is usually straightforward and can lead to significant savings. Taking the time to compare options and follow the right steps will help you get the best deal for your home. For further details on each step, see our guide on how to switch energy suppliers.
What to Consider if Your Landlord Is Responsible for the Energy Account
If your landlord is responsible for the energy account in your rented property, this usually means they pay the gas or electricity supplier directly. The cost may then be included in your rent as a single monthly payment, or you might be billed separately for your share of the energy use.
How does this affect your ability to switch supplier or tariff?
When the energy account is in your landlord’s name, you generally cannot switch the supplier or tariff yourself. Only the account holder – the landlord – has the authority to make changes, since energy companies will only discuss or amend contracts with the named customer. This can limit your options for finding a cheaper deal or choosing a greener tariff.
What should you do if you want to explore better energy options?
It’s a good idea to talk to your landlord if you think switching could save money or reduce your environmental impact. You can suggest comparing tariffs together or ask if they’re open to switching suppliers. Some landlords may be willing to consider your request, especially if it could lower overall costs or improve energy efficiency.
Check your tenancy agreement
Always review your tenancy agreement to understand who is responsible for paying energy bills and managing the account. The agreement should clearly state whether you or your landlord pays the supplier directly, and whether you have any say in choosing the energy provider. If it’s not clear, ask your landlord for clarification.
Limited control over energy choices
If your landlord manages the energy account, your control over the supplier or tariff is usually limited. However, you still have the right to ask questions about how your bills are calculated and whether you could benefit from a different deal.
For a detailed explanation of your rights and responsibilities, including what to expect when utilities are included in your rent, visit our guide to landlord and tenant utilities responsibilities.
Understanding these arrangements can help you avoid disputes and ensure you’re not paying more than necessary for your energy while renting. If you’re unsure about your situation, seek advice before making any changes or agreements.
What to Do If You Owe Money or Are Struggling to Pay Energy Bills
If you owe money on your energy bills or are struggling to keep up with payments, it’s important to understand how this can affect your ability to switch suppliers and what support is available.
Can You Switch Suppliers If You Owe Money?
In most cases, owing money to your energy supplier may limit your options for switching. If you have a debt on your account, your current supplier can stop you from switching until the debt is paid, particularly if the debt is more than 28 days old. However, if you use a prepayment meter and owe less than £500 per fuel (gas or electricity), you may still be able to switch under the “Debt Assignment Protocol,” which allows your debt to transfer to your new supplier.
For more detailed guidance on this, see our page on switching if you owe money to your energy supplier.
Your Rights as a Renter
As a tenant, you have the right to switch energy suppliers if you are responsible for paying the bills directly, even if you have outstanding debt. However, if your landlord manages the energy account and includes energy costs in your rent, you’ll need to discuss any debt or payment issues with them. It’s also worth checking your tenancy agreement to see if there are any clauses about switching suppliers or dealing with arrears.
What to Do If You’re Struggling to Pay
If you’re finding it hard to pay your energy bills, don’t ignore the problem. Contact your energy supplier as soon as possible – they are required by Ofgem rules to help you find a solution. Suppliers must offer payment plans based on what you can afford, and they may also provide emergency credit if you have a prepayment meter.
You can find practical advice and further support if you are struggling to pay your energy bills. Acting early can help you avoid more serious consequences, such as disconnection or damage to your credit rating.
Help with Energy Costs
If you’re on a low income or receiving benefits, you might be eligible for grants and benefits to help you pay your energy bills. These can include government schemes, charitable grants, or discounts from your supplier.
Why You Should Seek Help Early
Dealing with energy debt or financial difficulties can be stressful, but support is available. The sooner you speak to your supplier or seek advice, the more options you’ll have to manage your bills and avoid further problems. Remember, suppliers are required to treat customers in financial difficulty fairly, and there are protections in place to prevent disconnection, especially during the winter months or if you have vulnerable people in your household.
If you need more information about your rights or the steps you can take, explore our related guides or speak to your supplier for personalised support.
Tips for Saving Energy and Reducing Bills While Renting
Saving energy in your rented home doesn’t just help lower your bills – it’s also a positive step for the environment. Even if you’re not able to make major changes to the property, there are plenty of simple and effective ways to cut your energy use and save money, whatever your current supplier or tariff.
Simple Ways to Save Energy as a Renter
1. Be mindful of heating and hot water:
Heating is often the biggest contributor to energy bills. Try setting your thermostat to the lowest comfortable temperature (usually between 18°C and 21°C) and use timers to heat your home only when needed. If your radiators have individual controls, adjust them in rooms you use less often.
2. Use appliances efficiently:
Turn off lights when you leave a room and unplug devices that aren’t in use. Use energy-saving bulbs and run washing machines or dishwashers with full loads, using eco settings where possible.
3. Prevent heat loss:
Close curtains at night and use draught excluders to keep warm air in. If your landlord allows, you can fit temporary draught-proofing strips to windows and doors. Rolling up towels and placing them at the bottom of doors is a quick fix for stopping draughts.
4. Manage water usage:
Take shorter showers and avoid leaving taps running. If your property has an immersion heater, set it to heat water only when needed.
5. Choose energy-efficient habits:
Dry clothes on racks instead of using a tumble dryer, and only boil as much water as you need in the kettle.
Small Changes, Big Savings
You don’t need to make drastic changes to see results. For example, switching off standby appliances can save around £30 a year, and using energy-efficient lighting throughout your home could save even more. These savings add up over time and are beneficial regardless of your energy supplier or tariff.
Complementing Better Tariffs
Even after switching to a more competitive tariff, being energy-conscious maximises your savings. Combining a good deal with smart habits means you’re not only cutting costs but also reducing your carbon footprint.
Find More Practical Advice
For more detailed and practical guidance tailored to renters, take a look at these energy management tips. You’ll find advice on everything from managing heating to using appliances efficiently – all designed to help you save money and energy, even if you’re renting.
Remember, small steps can make a big difference. By adopting energy-saving habits, you’ll enjoy lower bills and do your part for the environment, whether or not you’ve switched supplier or tariff.
Where to Get More Help and Information
If you need more guidance or run into problems when trying to switch your energy supplier or tariff as a renter, there are several places you can turn for help and up-to-date information.
For clear and reliable advice on the process of switching energy supplier, start by reviewing our main guide. This covers the essential steps and what you need to know before making a decision.
You can also visit official government and energy regulator websites such as Ofgem, which provide comprehensive information on your rights, how to compare tariffs, what to do if you are in debt, and what happens if you are moving home or have a prepayment meter.
If you have a dispute with your energy supplier – such as problems with your bills, switching delays, or issues with your tariff – you can contact consumer advice services for support. They can help you understand your options and, if necessary, guide you through making a complaint. If your issue remains unresolved, you may be able to escalate your case to the Energy Ombudsman, who can independently review disputes between consumers and energy companies.
Sometimes, renters face challenges with their landlord or letting agent regarding energy supply – such as being told they’re not allowed to switch, or if the landlord manages the energy account in their name. It’s important to know your rights in these situations. For more detail on tenant and landlord responsibilities around energy bills and supply, see our guide on utilities and energy supply in UK rentals.
Staying informed about your rights as a tenant is essential. Energy regulations and consumer protections can change, so regularly check trusted sources like Ofgem for updates. By understanding your legal position and knowing where to get help, you can make confident decisions about your energy supply and ensure you’re not paying more than you need to.
