Switching Energy Providers as a Renter in England: Your Rights

Many renters in England wonder whether they can switch energy providers, especially if they’re facing high bills or want a greener option. Knowing your rights as a tenant is important to make sure you’re not paying more than necessary and can choose the best energy deal for your needs. This guide explains when and how you can switch, which official forms and processes may be relevant, and where to find trusted support if you face issues with your landlord or agent.

Can Renters in England Switch Energy Providers?

Whether you can switch energy suppliers depends mainly on what’s written in your tenancy agreement and who pays the energy bills:

• You pay the bills directly (your name is on the bill): You generally have the right to choose and switch your energy supplier.
• The landlord pays, then charges you: The landlord chooses the provider. You can ask them to switch, but they’re not legally required to agree.

Most private and social tenancy agreements will state who is responsible for utility bills. If your agreement says you need written permission to switch suppliers, your landlord cannot unreasonably refuse.^[1]

Where to Check in Your Agreement

• Look for clauses about ‘utilities’ or ‘energy suppliers’
• Review rights regarding ‘alterations’ or ‘changes’ during the tenancy

Still unsure? Ask your landlord or letting agent directly, or get free advice from Citizens Advice.

How to Switch Your Energy Provider

If you pay the bills, switching is usually straightforward. Here are the steps:

• Check your tenancy agreement for any switching restrictions.
• Compare providers using the official Ofgem price comparison tools.
• Contact your current supplier to let them know you're switching (they may need a final meter reading).
• Tell your new supplier that you’re a tenant. They may ask to confirm you are responsible for the account.
• Inform your landlord once the switch is complete.

You don’t need to involve your landlord when you switch, but a courtesy email is recommended.

Relevant Official Forms and How They’re Used

• Form: Tenancy Agreement – This is not an application form, but the contract signed at the start of your tenancy. It sets out responsibility for bills. If your agreement is unclear, ask for clarification, or if necessary, challenge unfair clauses with advice from Shelter or Citizens Advice.
• No statutory form is required to switch energy suppliers – you simply need to contract with your new provider and provide your tenancy details.

What If My Landlord Refuses or Objects?

Landlords can only deny switching for a reasonable reason, such as safety issues or if the agreement includes utility costs in the rent. If they refuse without a good reason, you can:

• Send a written request for permission
• Remind your landlord of your rights under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985
• If unresolved, seek advice from the local council’s Tenancy Relations Officer or {First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber)}

Your Legal Rights and Protections

• The Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 gives you protection against unreasonable restrictions on utilities.
• The tenant’s energy rights guidance from Ofgem outlines switching basics.

If you’re being treated unfairly, you may be able to take your case to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber), which handles rental disputes in England.

FAQ: Energy Switching for Renters in England

1. Can I switch if the bills are included in my rent?
   If energy is included in your rent, the landlord is responsible for choosing the supplier. You can ask them to use a specific provider, but they don’t have to agree.
2. What should I do if my landlord unreasonably refuses permission?
   Write to your landlord and explain your rights. If the issue continues, seek advice from Citizens Advice or your local council’s tenancy team, and consider raising a complaint with the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber).
3. Do I have to return everything to the original supplier when I move out?
   No. The new tenant can choose their own provider, or the landlord can set the supplier if they resume control. Let your landlord and the supplier know you’re leaving and provide a final meter reading.
4. Are there any extra costs for switching provider?
   Switching is usually free, but check if your current tariff includes exit fees. Ofgem requires providers to make these clear in your contract.
5. Who can I contact for support if my landlord tries to block a switch?
   Contact Citizens Advice, your local council’s housing department, or use the official government complaints process via the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) if your rights are denied.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• How to Rent guide (Gov.uk)
• Ofgem – Tenants’ Energy Rights
• Shelter – Housing helpline (Free independent advice)
• Citizens Advice – Housing problems
• First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber)

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1. Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, see permitted changes to services and suppliers
2. Gov.uk – Private renting: tenancy agreements
3. Ofgem – Tenants’ Energy Rights
4. Gov.uk – Housing Tribunals for rental disputes

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