How to Avoid Energy Bill Problems from Day One 

Starting a new tenancy should feel like a fresh start. 

Energy bills are rarely top of the list. 

But getting them wrong at the start can cause stress and unexpected costs later. 

The good news? A few simple steps can make a big difference. 

Why energy problems often happen at the start of a tenancy.

Many energy issues don’t come from high usage; they come from confusion. 

Common problems include: 

• Not knowing who the gas or electricity supplier is 
• Missing or estimated opening meter readings 
• Bills covering dates before the tenant moved in 
• Letters addressed to ‘The Occupier’ causing worry 

These problems are common, especially in homes that were empty before someone moved in. 

Step one: find out who your energy supplier is 

When you move in, you should:  

• Ask your housing officer or landlord who supplies your gas and electricity 
• Check any paperwork left in the property 

Knowing the correct supplier early prevents problems later. 

Step two: take meter readings as soon as possible 

This is one of the most important steps. 

On the day you move in (or as close as possible): 

• Take a photo of your gas and electricity meters 
• Write down the readings 
• Keep the photos safe 

These readings prove when your responsibility starts and help stop you being charged for energy used before you moved in. 

Step three: contact the supplier 

Once you know who the supplier is: 

• Let them know you’ve moved in 
• Give them your opening meter readings 
• Set up an account in your name 

This helps ensure your bills are accurate from day one. 

What if something doesn’t look right? 

If you receive: 

• A bill covering time before you moved in 
• A demand you don’t understand 
• Letters about debt that isn’t yours 

Don’t ignore it. 

You can: 

• Contact the supplier and explain your move-in date 
• Ask your landlord or housing provider for support 
• Request help from an energy support service if one is available 

Problems are much easier to fix early. 

How Energy Angels helps behind the scenes 

Many housing providers work with Energy Angels to manage energy in empty homes before a new tenant moves in. 

This means: 

• Energy use during void periods is monitored 
• Opening readings are recorded correctly 
• The handover to new tenants is clearer 

While residents don’t deal with us directly for billing, this work helps reduce errors and confusion at the start of a tenancy. 

If you’re moving into a new social housing home and feel unsure about your energy bills, don’t struggle alone. 

Speak to your housing provider or ask what energy support is available to help you start your tenancy with confidence.