The Best Energy Suppliers & Tariffs for Empty Rental Properties

When a rental property becomes vacant, landlords and letting agents must still manage the energy supply. Whether it’s for compliance checks, safety, or viewings, electricity and gas often need to remain connected. Choosing the best energy supplier for empty properties can help reduce unnecessary costs during void energy periods.

Why You Can’t Just Switch Everything Off

It might seem logical to disconnect energy when a property is unoccupied, but in most cases, that’s neither practical nor advisable. Utilities are often needed for:

• Lighting and heating during property viewings
  
• Running smoke or burglar alarms
  
• Maintaining a stable temperature to prevent damp or frozen pipes
  
• Carrying out safety inspections or EPC assessments
  

Understanding Energy Charges on Empty Properties

Even when there’s no consumption, most suppliers charge a standing charge. This is a daily fee that keeps the connection live. Over time, this can add up, especially across multiple properties.

This is why landlords search for the best energy tariff for empty properties and seek options that reduce or eliminate standing charges and make it easier to manage multiple sites.

What to Look for in an Energy Supplier for Empty Properties

When choosing the best energy supplier for empty properties, consider:

• No exit fees
  
• Flexible contracts
  
• Void property rates
  
• Account management tools
  

It’s also worth speaking to a specialist void energy provider, like Energy Angels, who work specifically with social landlords.

Tariff Types and What They Mean

If a property is going to be empty short-term, a variable tariff is typically the default. For longer-term voids:

• Suspension of supply may be an option (though rare)
  
• Prepayment meters may help, though not always suitable for new tenants
  

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring the account
  
• Forgetting meter readings
  
• Letting energy build up during viewings or maintenance
  

Managing Multiple Empty Properties

Some suppliers offer portfolio accounts with bulk tariff management and consolidated billing. Alternatively, third-party void energy management services can manage this for you.

What Happens When a New Tenant Moves In?

Once re-let, the new tenant typically takes responsibility for energy from move-in. To ensure a smooth handover:

• Provide accurate meter readings
  
• Advise the tenant who the supplier is
  
• Encourage them to register straight away

Managing energy during void periods doesn’t have to be expensive or time-consuming. By choosing the best energy supplier for empty properties and switching to the best energy tariff for an empty property, you can reduce costs and simplify the changeover between tenants.