When it comes to switching energy suppliers, a number of urban myths continue to prevent tenants from finding a better deal.
One of these is that tenants can’t change their gas or electricity supplier.
This is simply not the case, and anyone who rents a property and pays their own bills has the right to switch to a cheaper energy provider.
Even if your landlord pays your gas and electricity bill, you have a right to understand what you can be charged for and how much you can be charged.
While most tenants are allowed to switch, it might be difficult to do right now.
With the current energy crisis in the UK, many suppliers have withdrawn their tariffs from the market. This means that switching through comparison sites currently isn’t possible.
But it's worth knowing your rights as a renter and considering switching in the future.
Here's what you need to know about managing energy costs as a renter.
Switching energy supplier as a tenant: FAQs
As a tenant, can I switch energy supplier?
The short answer is yes, if you pay your energy bills directly.
If you’re a tenant and would like to save on your energy bills then, unless your landlord pays the charges, you can change energy supplier.
The fact that you don’t own the property you live in does not affect your rights to switch.
In fact, energy regulator Ofgem has set out to clear up any misconceptions surrounding this issue, and has previously issued guidance emphasising tenants’ rights to switch.
The underlying message was clear: renting does not relinquish your right to find a cheap energy provider.
What if there’s a clause in my tenancy agreement about energy suppliers?
If you are directly responsible for paying your energy bills, there is no reason you should not be able to select a new energy supplier.
But let your landlord know if you decide to change energy provider. This isn’t mandatory but the gesture is often appreciated and may be written into your tenancy agreement.
What if my landlord pays my energy bills?
If your landlord covers your energy bills, either by paying them directly or as an intermediate, you do not have the right to switch.
You need to have direct contact with your energy supplier if you are to be entitled to change.
However, it's worth having a chat with your landlord and asking if they would change supplier. They may agree to it.
How do I switch to a cheaper energy supplier?
Right now, there are no deals available on comparison sites.
But it is possible that a supplier may be able to offer you a competitive tariff directly. It depends on the supplier and the current market conditions, as these factors can vary for each person.
To find the best deal possible, you would need to contact suppliers directly, which can be time-consuming. This is why comparison sites are so popular; they make the process way easier and more efficient.
When the market stabilises a little, energy comparison sites might show deals again. Check sites like Uswitch to see when they're back.
Find a cheap energy supplier - Uswitch
Can students switch energy supplier?
The same principle applies for students as it does to other tenants.
If you pay for your energy directly, you are entitled to switch.
For many, student life provides a first experience of renting a home. It also often represents a period in which funds can be particularly tight, so cutting your bills should be a priority.
When can my landlord charge me for gas and electricity?
Your landlord can charge you for energy if it is expressly stated in your tenancy agreement.
If your contract says you must pay your energy bills to your landlord, then you are not required to pay anything to your energy supplier.
It is important to note that you cannot be charged more than the maximum resale price (see next section) for your energy bills.
How much can my landlord charge me for energy?
Don’t worry, you can’t be charged over the odds for energy.
There is a maximum price that tenants can be charged and this is called the maximum resale price.
This fee is set by law and depends on how your energy consumption is recorded. If your energy use is recorded by a gas or electric meter then you should be charged per unit and for your share of any relevant standing charges.
You should also be charged a domestic rate, regardless of whether your landlord has a business agreement with an energy supplier.
If usage is determined by your landlord without the use of a meter, then your landlord must be able to show you how your costs have been estimated. Should your landlord be unable to demonstrate how this has been worked out, you might be in a position to ask for compensation.
As a tenant, what charges am I exempt from paying?
You can only be charged for the cost of any gas or electricity that you consume.
Any energy charges related to administration or communal lighting need to be billed separately by your landlord. These are not subject to any price restrictions.
Who is responsible for repairing the heating system?
As a tenant, you are not responsible for repairs to your central heating system. This is one of your landlord’s obligations.
They are also in charge of ensuring any appliances supplied are in line with current safety regulations.
I think my landlord is overcharging me for energy, what can I do?
If you think your landlord is charging you unfairly for your gas and electric use, you should start by asking how they have calculated the figure they are billing you.
If you disagree with their findings and are unable to resolve the matter informally, you can seek help from Citizens Advice.
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