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Energy Bill for the Previous Occupier
You do not have to pay for energy that was used before you moved in. Tell the supplier your move-in date and give a meter reading. If it asks for proof, send a copy of your tenancy agreement or mortgage contract.
At a Glance
Your Rights
What the rules say, with a link to the official source for each.
Your Rights
Before You Moved In
You don't have to pay for energy used before you moved in. Tell the supplier when you moved in; if it asks for proof, send a copy of your tenancy agreement or mortgage contract. Give a meter reading so the new bill is right. source
The Energy Ombudsman
If your energy complaint is not resolved within 8 weeks, or you get a deadlock letter, you can take it to the Energy Ombudsman. It is free and impartial. source
Time Limits to Know
Miss a deadline and you can lose a right. Check the dates on your own paperwork.
- 8 weeksEnergy complaint to the Energy OmbudsmanAfter 8 weeks with no resolution, or on receiving a deadlock letter
Steps to Take
Step 1 of 5
Take a meter reading (and a dated photo) as soon as you move in.
Step 2 of 5
Tell the supplier your move-in date and reading.
Step 3 of 5
Send proof such as your tenancy agreement if asked. Our free letter templates can write it for you.
Step 4 of 5
Ask the supplier to remove any charges from before your move-in date.
Step 5 of 5
If it is not sorted in 8 weeks, go to the Energy Ombudsman.
(Tap the numbers to reveal steps)
Where to Go If It Is Not Put Right
Your options, in order, and when each one applies.
Your Energy Supplier's Complaints Team
Always start here, in writing.
Energy Ombudsman
After 8 weeks with no resolution, or when you get a deadlock letter.
Good to Know
Small things that make your complaint stronger.
If a debt collector contacts you about the old account, tell it in writing that the debt is not yours.
Want Help?
If you would like one of our team to look at your problem, our initial case review is free. We cannot guarantee any outcome and we do not give legal advice.
Lead reviewer
Luke Marley
Founder and Lead Reviewer
Luke founded CPUK in 2026 after seeing how hard it is for ordinary people to get problems with companies put right. He oversees our guides and checks them against official sources.
Research by Katie Burt, Co-founder and Operations Lead (17 years in the care sector, including managing services for vulnerable adults), and the CPUK Research Team. Researched with AI-assisted research tools, then checked and corrected by our team.
Last checked: 13 October 2026. We are not paid by the companies we write about. Adverts never affect our guidance. Read our editorial policy.