Moving to new premises requires meticulous planning and your energy supply must not be overlooked. You will need to make a new contract as soon as possible after moving. Our guide is intended to help you and highlight what to avoid when moving to new premises.
Is there an energy supply?
This may sound obvious, but check to see that the premises have an energy supply. The supplier could have disconnected the supply after the previous occupiers moved out. If this is the case you should get the landlord to have the meter re-connected or contact the supplier and check on what terms they are willing to re-connect the meter.
When negotiating for the premises you should find the name of the current energy supplier. Get the landlord to have the meter re-connected or check on what terms the supplier will be willing to re-connect the meter. Avoid if possible the necessity to enter into a supply contract at this point.
If you cannot get assurances on re-connecting the meter it may be in your best interest to seek alternative accommodation because there are no recognised timescales to get you re-connected. Check with the supplier if the previous tenant has left a debt at the site and make sure that he understands that you have no responsibility to pay such debt and will not do so!
Is the supply suitable?
Check the existing supply is correct for your needs. Sometimes premises have a meter and supply that will not be suitable for your business. This may impact on your business costs by having to pay for changes. As above, contact the existing supplier for advice.
Do you share a supply?
Some premises are shared by two businesses but only have one power supply. You need to check on the arrangements for sharing the cost of power. This is an arrangement between you and the other tenant NOT the supplier and you can be disconnected for the other party defaulting on payment.
When you move in
Make sure that you take a reading of the meters and give it to your supplier to ensure that you only pay for your own usage.
Choosing a supplier
As the new occupier you have the right to choose your preferred supplier (unless your lease precludes this).
Your current supplier will charge you ‘out of contract’ or ‘deemed’ rates until you enter into a contract with them or choose to contract with another energy supplier. Out of contract rates are the most expensive in the industry so it your interest to agree to a contract with a supplier as soon as possible.
The business energy exchange price calculator will help you compare contract offers from a range of energy suppliers and make your application online
Note: The process of transfering to a new supplier takes between 4 – 6 weeks. Therefore, to avoid paying out of contract rates during this period, it will be advantageous to compare prices and find a suitable contract before you move in.
Can I contract with the supplier of my choice?
Normally you can but check the lease to see that the landlord has not placed restrictions on this ability.
Beware of cold calls
Unfortunately, as the new occupier of the premises, you will face an onslaught of cold calls from various energy suppliers and Third Party Intermidiaries (TPI’s - sales agents, energy brokers etc).
These organizations will buy various forms of data which list the details of new occupiers. They will all try to get you to agree to an energy contract over the telephone.
Our advice is never agree to anything over the phone unless you see it in writing alongside the contract terms & conditions.
Saving energy will save you money
Efficient use of energy will not only save you money but will also reduce your carbon emissions and help to combat global warming. Start as you mean to go on and encourage all personnel to save energy. “The only cheap energy is that which you do not use!”