Updated October 2026 · Fraser Bond
Moving in
You shouldn't pay the last tenant's energy debt
Meterreading on day one
Suppliermust transfer debt
Proofof move-in date
Ombudsmanif unresolved
In short: Energy debt belongs to the person who used the energy, not the next occupier. If you move in and find debt on a prepayment meter, take a dated meter reading and photo, contact the supplier with your move-in date and tenancy agreement, and ask them to remove the previous occupier's debt from the meter. If they don't resolve it, complain and escalate to the Energy Ombudsman.
Getting the debt removed
1
Read the meterTake a dated photo on your first day.
2
Identify the supplierUse the meter number or the national meter lookup services.
3
Call the supplierExplain you've moved in and give your move-in date and proof.
4
Ask for the debt to be removedThe supplier should reset the meter debt for the new occupier.
5
EscalateUse the complaints process, then the Energy Ombudsman after eight weeks or a deadlock letter.
Landlords and agents: avoid this
Frequently asked questions
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Do I have to pay the previous tenant's energy debt?
No. You're responsible only for energy used from your move-in date.
Can the landlord be charged?
Sometimes for empty periods; landlords should notify suppliers between tenancies.
What if I've already paid some of it?
Ask the supplier to refund amounts taken towards the old debt.
Want smooth move-ins every time?
Our management includes meter readings and utility handovers.
Speak to our team
