Setting up utility accounts and Council Tax after moving

Katerina Galkina · EN · 07/10/2026

Establish what the rent includes

List electricity, gas, heating and hot water, water, internet and council tax. Record who pays each charge and to whom. Clarify “bills included” in writing: consumption caps, excluded services and calculation of excess usage.

The main process here concerns England, including London. Scotland organises water charges differently, while Northern Ireland has domestic rates rather than council tax. Do not apply an English registration form to every UK address.

Record meters on arrival

Take readings and serial numbers for electricity, gas and water meters where accessible. Photograph them with a date and submit readings to management and the relevant suppliers. If a meter is in a locked communal cupboard, request a record from the manager. Ensure you have the correct flat's meter.

Identify existing suppliers through the agent, owner or manager. Provide your name, address, responsibility start date and readings. Do not simply accept a previous occupant's debt in your account: request an itemised calculation and corrected dates. Keep reference numbers and the first bill.

Energy and water

If you pay electricity or gas suppliers directly, you can compare tariffs and providers subject to relevant tenancy arrangements. Heat networks differ: you cannot usually choose a different network supplier. Ofgem explains moving and switching ↗.

Find the water company through Water UK ↗, then establish registration and the charging basis. Water and sewerage may involve different organisations. The period before the first letter is not necessarily free: the account should reflect the real responsibility date. Compare broadband installation times, minimum terms and termination costs in advance.

Council Tax and initial bills

Find the council using GOV.UK ↗, complete its moving-in or registration form and provide adult occupants and dates. An agent may have sent information, but verify that the account is correct. Room lets and HMOs require a separate assessment of the liable person.

Check discounts: for example, 25% is normally available where only one adult is counted; students and other disregarded residents have special rules. Apply separately. See who pays Council Tax ↗. Check the initial bill's address, period, band, discount and payment schedule. Do not create a duplicate account merely because the first letter is delayed; confirm registration status first.