Treat departure and arrival as separate utility tasks, even when using the same provider. Confirm the old account's moving process, establish who supplies the new property and record readings at both homes. Keep the dates and account references together so later bills can be checked.
Before the move
Tell current providers about the planned change using their official process. Ask about notice, contract terms and any arrangements at the destination. If bills are included in rent or another charge, confirm who is responsible before opening or closing an account yourself.
On handover day
- Photograph readable meter displays and identifiers where accessible.
- Record the date and which address each image belongs to.
- Submit readings as requested and keep the confirmation.
- Check the new property's existing supplier and contact route.
A smart meter does not remove the value of a handover record. Do not attempt to access unsafe or restricted equipment; ask the responsible provider or building manager for help.
After arrival
Check opening and closing statements against your records. Query an unexpected balance with the provider and retain the correspondence. Avoid treating a quoted monthly payment as proof of the final annual cost; review the basis of the bill and your actual usage.
Water arrangements differ across UK nations and properties, including how charges may be collected. Use the relevant provider or authority's information rather than assuming every household receives an identical separate water bill.
For Great Britain energy moving guidance, start with Ofgem's moving-home information. Northern Ireland has separate energy arrangements, so use your supplier and the Utility Regulator.
Put it into practice
Use the change-of-address checklist to organise your own figures or next steps. Keep its assumptions alongside your plan.