From Fresher to First Time Renter
Is university life calling you back after a long summer break?
Moving into your first privately rented home is a big step, especially if you’ve come across new equipment and controls that you haven’t had to think about before.
But it’s also an exciting time, and we want to make your transition as smooth as possible with regards to your home energy. Here’s a quick checklist for you to work through when you move into your new home.
- Make sure you know if your gas and electricity bills are included in your rent or if you need to pay for them separately.
- Read your meters as soon as you move in and take a photograph in case you ever need proof of the readings.
- Find out who supplies your gas and electricity and submit your readings on their website, over the phone or on their app. You can find out who your supplier is by asking your landlord, estate agent or the previous tenant. Alternatively, find your gas supplier at www.findmysupplier.energy or by calling 0870 608 1524. For electricity, call 0345 026 2554 (Option 3) or- in Hampshire- head to www.ssen.co.uk/supplier-search.
- If you’ve got pre-payment meters, contact your supplier straight away so they can re-set your meter. You don’t want to end up paying someone else’s debt!
- Check your tariff. Energy suppliers don’t usually put new customers on their cheapest tariff, so give them a call or contact them online to check if they have any cheaper tariffs available. Be careful of exit fees though, especially if you’re thinking about ending an agreement early.
It’s also a good idea to familiarise yourself with the heating and hot water equipment around your home, learn how to use the controls and experiment with the settings. Most appliances will have a manual either online or in print, so check with your landlord if you’re not sure.
Lastly, have a look at your home’s Energy Performance Certificate to check for any energy efficiency recommendations. You/your landlord might be eligible for funding to cover the cost of home improvements.
We can help you explore these options; just give us a call on 0800 804 8601 or email enquiries@environmentcentre.com.
Best of luck for the year ahead!
