Setting up your utilities

Managing your utilities is an essential part of moving into your new home. Here's what you need to do. 

Gas, electric, and water services 

Please remember, utilities are not included in your rent. Therefore, you should: 

• take pictures or note the readings of your gas, electric, and water meters when you receive the keys 
• contact your chosen utility providers to transfer the accounts into your name 

This ensures you are billed correctly for your usage and not for any previous occupant's usage. 

Meters and pre-payment

If your meter is in a locked box, you can purchase a key from a plumber's merchant. 

Your gas and electricity might be on a pre-payment meter, like a pay-as-you-go system. To add credit, top up your smartcard, token, or key at: 

• Post Offices 
• shops with PayPoint or PayZone machines 
• online or by phone, if your supplier offers these options 

Registering with utility providers 

Gas and electricity suppliers

You must register with a utility provider for gas and electricity before our contractors can recommission your boiler for heating and hot water. 

To find out who supplies gas to your home, contact the Meter Number Helpline on 0870 608 1524. 

For electricity supply information, contact EDF Energy on 0333 200 5100. 

You can select your preferred energy supplier at any time. Use comparison websites like uSwitch, Money Supermarket, or Compare the Market to find the best deal for your needs. 

Water supplier 

Each borough has different water suppliers. Find out who is yours using Water UK's Find Your Supplier tool.