Guide to the Switching Process

There are a few things to keep in mind when switching energy providers, and because not all of them are obvious, we’ve put together a guide to make the switch easier.

What You’ll Need

Some information will should be kept handy when you sit down to switch. Before you begin, make sure you have:

• Your postcode
• Your current energy supplier and the name of the tariff (this should be on your latest bill)
• Your current energy use in kilowatt hours (kWh) (This should also be on your bill)
• Your bank details

Making the Switch

In most cases, your new supplier can handle the switch once you give them the go-ahead and the important details. You’ll have to provide meter readings when they’re requested and – obviously – you’ll still have to make any outstanding payments to the previous supplier.

Make sure you find out ahead of time if your current supplier will need you to confirm the switch before they will go ahead – it’s not good to be caught out that way, and because the switch is usually out of your hands, the times when it isn’t can surprise you.

Lastly, make the time to keep records of your meter’s readings throughout the process, so you can check your final bill with your old supplier and your first bill with the new. It’s important to be sure you’re getting a good deal.

(A great, easy way to record your meter readings is to take photos. Your phone will even have a record of when they were taken!)

Confirming the Switch

Because peace of mind can be so important, it’s worth making a note of when the changeover should be finished and checking to see that it has been.