Despite the fact that shopping around could save tenants up to £200, 20% admit that they weren’t aware they could switch to a different supplier.
Renters are only half as likely to switch compared to homeowners: 26% of renters said they had ever switched gas supplier compared to 47% of homeowners, with similar figures for switching electricity supplier.
A common myth among renters is that they have to accept the energy suppliers already in place when they move in – but it’s very rare that this is always the case. The Be an Energy Shopper website has been updated to include the key facts, along with top tips for breaking down the barriers which prevent tenants applying their savvy shopping habits to their energy bills.
Here are some top tips for budget-conscious renters:
Take meter readings when moving in and out of rented accommodation
Ask your landlord to highlight any supplier tie-ins upfront, including any exit fees which you would have to pay if you wanted to switch suppliers
Let your landlord know if you are intending to switch supplier
Remember: if you are responsible for paying the gas and electricity bill, you are entitled to switch at any time, and your landlord cannot unreasonably prevent you from doing so
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