Thanks for the information and wishes of luck.
I will be living on my own in a 2 bed flat. The Hippo/Hog sounds good.

Yep, I'm afraid you are stuck with Thames Water as water market not de-regulated, so no competition there, unlike gas and electricity.

However, you still might be able to save money on your water bills. Are you on rateable value for charges, not a meter? if so, and if your property is quite big (ie more than 2 bed) and you are living on your own there or have a small family, you could have a meter put in (installation is free). TW should be able to send you a calculator to work out your consumption to compare meter v rateable value charges, or you should be able to find one at www.thameswater.co.uk.

If you already have a meter, have a look at reducing your consumption. Depending on whether you have an old fashioned cistern or a modern one, TW can provide you with a water displacement device free of charge. You can phone for it or order online. the Hippo is designed for old fashioned loo's, the Hog is for modern ones and is basically a bag filled with silica gel. pop it in and it works in the same way as the old-school method of sticking a brick in the cistern. You can save up to a couple of litres per flush and still ensure the nasties get washed away. It might seem like small beans to start with but over time you can save $$$'s.

Also, there's other stuff you can do like not having the tap on while brushing your teeth, having a water butt in the garden to catch the rain and water plants, etc. It doesn't sounds like much, but in the last 2 years I reckon I have managed to save at least couple of hundred quid that way. It all adds up, and btw I should add I know this nerdy stuff cos I used to work for Thames Water :)

good luck in your new home :)

james
thanks for your advice and msg of luck.

Just take readings on the day you move in, and notify the utilities and council that day. If possible, agree the readings with the previous occupant. If not, and you have a camera, prop up that day's newspaper by the meters, and take a photo, just in case of any disputes.

It is possible to change supplier immediately, but I always wait for the first bill in case there is any problem with the account transfers. I think you are more or less stuck with Thames Water, but you can find cheaper energy suppliers. Also, if you wait for the first bill, you will have some idea of your consumption for the comparison website.

Good luck in your new home.

Hi

I should have purchased my first house in about a 1 and a half weeks time. I am looking for advice on the handover of Gas and Electric.

My first question is - what is the process. Do i need to contact the utility companies on the day i move in? or do i need to do this before? Do i need to record the meters? Is this the same for the water company too?

My second question is- these are the current utility providers. Do i stick with them, or do i shop around!?

Gas - British Gas

Water - Thames Water

Electric - Southern Electric


Thanks very much