Relocating to a new home is an exciting adventure, but it’s also the perfect time for switching energy supplier moving house, especially your electricity provider. It’s easy to think that you need to keep the same one or simply renew on the same plan, but you may save money and get better service by taking the time to search around. This article will give a full overview of switching energy suppliers when moving, including timelines, steps, usual issues, and tips to make the change hassle-free.
How Important Is Switching Energy Suppliers When Moving?
Moving isn’t just about packing boxes; it’s also a good time to review your bills. You should consider moving house and changing energy supplier together. Most of us switch to the default provider at the new house without seeking better rates or services. But switching energy suppliers at the new home is easier than you think, and doing it during a move means you’re not tied into an expensive or inflexible contract. It is interesting to know that most suppliers provide welcome discounts, green tariffs, and flexible payment plans for new customers. Rather than enrolling with the old owner’s supplier, try searching for the best ones first.
Matter of Time: How Long Does It Take to Change Energy Supplier?
You may ask how long to switch energy supplier? Changing generally takes 15 to 21 days from the registration date. But if you switch while you’re moving, it will be easier, and you won’t experience double billing or loss of service. It’s also possible to pre-register your new address with your preferred supplier so that they start serving on your move-in date.
Steps to Switch Energy Suppliers When Moving Home
If you want to know how to change energy supplier when moving house, take these steps:
1. Pre-move:
- Inform your existing energy supplier
- Give them a forwarding address for the last bill
- Take a meter reading on the last day
2. Move time:
- Investigate suppliers in your new area
- Select if you want green power, fixed price, or pay as you go
3. After Move:
- Take a new meter reading immediately
- Compare some providers and register with your new supplier
- Cancel any remaining automatic enrollments by the previous owner
Understanding Residential vs. Commercial Energy Contracts
In places like Vancouver, your energy plan is based on the type of property you’re living in. Residential leases typically offer flat rates for normal houses, while commercial leases have usage-based rates with additional charges.
If your new home was previously used as a commercial space, tell the provider so they can upgrade your account to a residential plan because it is cheaper and better for household use.
How to Face the Moving House Challenges of Changing Energy Supplier?
Switching energy supplier moving house can have some common challenges. Here are details about them, along with the solutions including:
- Billing overlap: Avoid paying two providers by scheduling cancellation and activation promptly.
- Unfamiliar providers: The previous resident may have had a supplier that is not ideal for you.
- Contract mismatch: All suppliers do not offer service in every area. That’s why early checking is important.
- Business vs. Residential: If you are moving into a mixed-use building or a property that was previously commercial, check whether your new home is still on a business energy contract. In Vancouver, residential or commercial providers offer different prices and terms in their tariffs.
Tips for a Smooth Switch Between Energy Providers When Moving
When you are moving house and changing energy supplier, consider these tips to make the process easier:
- Begin early: Begin researching providers at least two weeks before you move.
- Maintain records: Take photos of your last and new meter readings.
- Avoid rolling contracts: These are more costly than fixed-term agreements.
- Ask your movers: Reputable moving firms like Secure Moving can supply a checklist that contains details of Vancouver energy suppliers to help you change your suppliers.
Energy Providers in Vancouver
If you’re moving within Vancouver and British Columbia, here are the two main energy providers that you can use their services:
1. FortisBC
FortisBC provides natural gas and electricity services across many regions of British Columbia. Satisfied customers believe that:
- It offers good customer support.
- FortisBC has efficiency programs for energy that are available everywhere, especially in suburban or rural parts of the province.
2. BC Hydro
BC Hydro is the primary electricity provider for the majority of British Columbia and covers regions like Vancouver. Its customers believe that:
- They offer many residential plans that meet customers’ needs.
- BC Hydro provides online account setup and management to make managing easier.
- It is also known for its green energy efforts and discounts for energy-saving upgrades.
Both offer easy online sign-up, and you can typically transfer or start the service entirely online.
Moving Checklist: Don’t Forget Your Energy Supplier
To better understand how to change energy supplier when moving house, here’s a quick checklist to keep your energy transfer easier:
- Notify your current supplier and arrange contract cancellation
- Take final meter readings
- Research suppliers in your new area
- Select electricity, gas, or both
- Join with your preferred supplier
- Take first-day readings in the new home
- Verify service activation within 21 days
Conclusion
Moving is a fresh start for life and also financially as well. Don’t miss a chance to manage your energy bill when moving to a new place. With planning, you can avoid costly mistakes for your home’s energy. By understanding how to change energy supplier when moving house, you can save money and have the reassurance of knowing that you’ve planned everything to avoid paying more for bills.
Easy Move with Secure Moving Company
At Secure Moving Company, we’ll make your move simple, organized, and hassle-free. From careful packing to safe transportation, our professional team manages every step with exactness and compassion. Whether you’re moving across town or long distance, we are the moving company in Vancouver you can trust for reliable and efficient service. If you have a question about the details of changing your suppliers, you can ask us as well. Call us today and let us make your moving process easy.
FAQs
- Can I switch energy suppliers when moving to a new home?
Yes, of course, and it is smart work to pay attention to the costs and compare them while moving.
- How do I find out who supplies energy to my new property?
Just check with the previous homeowner, or your landlord, or use your local utility’s tool to find the current energy supplier.
- What steps should I take to switch energy suppliers when moving?
You should notify your current provider, compare new tariffs, choose a new supplier, and register your move-in date.
- Are there any fees associated with switching energy suppliers?
Sometimes there are early exit fees depending on your current contract, but many providers offer no fee.
- How long does it take to switch energy suppliers?
Switching typically takes 15 to 21 days, but you won’t lose power during the transition.
