How to change energy supplier

There are many competitive schemes to supply gas and electricity below are the 6 steps you should follow if you decide to change supplier:

1. Contact your existing energy provider to find out if you qualify for a social tariff scheme or better deal based on your circumstances. Social tariff schemes offer cheaper energy deals and extra free services to certain customers.

2. Visit comparison websites such as:

   1. Uswitch
   2. Which? Switch
   3. MoneySupermarket
   4. MoneySavingExpert.com
   
   to find out which is the best supplier for you.
   
   

3. Get in touch with the new supplier and agree a contract. Your new supplier will keep you informed about the progress of the transfer which should take about six weeks to complete.

4. Give your old supplier 28 days notice that you are changing to a new energy provider. Consumer watch advises that you do this initially by telephone and follow up with written confirmation. There could be a delay or disruption in the transfer if you do not inform your existing supplier.

5. Pay outstanding bills owing to your existing supplier, if you do not they may prevent you from transferring.

6. Take a meter reading on the day you change over. If your old supplier does not use it to work out your final bill, or your new supplier does not use it as the starting point for your first bill, you will be able to provide them with the reading taken.