Introduction: Getting Connected to Gas
Just like electricity, gas is a vital utility for many homes, often used for heating, hot water, and cooking. Getting it set up can feel a bit like a maze, but this guide will simplify the process, helping you feel confident and in control. Whether your new home has gas heating, a gas hob for cooking, or a gas boiler for hot water, understanding how to get the service in your name is crucial for a comfortable and warm home.
Step 1: Confirm If Your Home Uses Gas and Who the Supplier Is
Not all homes use gas. Some rely solely on electricity for heating and cooking.
Check for Gas Appliances: Look for a gas boiler (usually in a kitchen cupboard, utility room, or airing cupboard), a gas hob (cooker), or gas fires. If you see these, your home likely uses gas.
Locate the Gas Meter: Gas meters are often outside (in a box on an external wall), in a hallway cupboard, under the stairs, or in a basement. It will look different from an electricity meter and usually has a dial or digital display.
Ask Your Landlord or Letting Agent: This is the quickest and most reliable way to find out if your property has a gas supply and, if so, who the current gas supplier is.
Why this is important: Like electricity, your new home will already have a gas supply. You need to inform the existing supplier that you’ve moved in to avoid issues and ensure you pay for your usage.
Use an Online Tool: If you can’t get the information from your landlord, you can use the National Grid’s Find My Supplier service. Search online for “who is my gas supplier UK” or “find my gas supplier National Grid.” You’ll usually just need your postcode. This tool will tell you who the current registered gas supplier is for the property.
Step 2: Gather All Your Information
Before you contact the gas supplier, have the following details ready. This will make the call or online process much smoother:
Your New Address: The full address, including the postcode.
Move-in Date: The exact date you officially moved into the property.
Your Contact Details: Your full name, date of birth, phone number, and email address.
An Initial Gas Meter Reading:
Why it’s important: This reading marks the point where your responsibility for gas usage begins. It ensures you’re only charged for the gas you use, not what the previous tenant used.
How to get it: Find your gas meter (as identified in Step 1).
For a standard digital meter: You’ll typically see numbers in black or white (often 5 digits) before a red number or numbers after a decimal point. Record the black/white numbers, ignoring the red ones.
For a traditional dial meter: This can be a bit more complex. Read the dials from left to right. If a pointer is between two numbers, always write down the lower number. If it’s pointing directly at a number, write that number down and then check the next dial to the right – if that dial is between 9 and 0, then go back and reduce the number you just wrote down by one.
Take a photo: Always take a clear, well-lit photo of the meter reading with your phone. This serves as proof of the reading and date.
Smart Meters: If you have a smart gas meter, it often sends readings automatically. However, it’s still good to know how to read the display on your in-home unit or the meter itself, just in case.
Your Bank Details (Optional but Recommended): If you plan to pay by Direct Debit, have your bank account number and sort code handy.
Step 3: Contact the Gas Supplier
Once you know who the supplier is and have your information ready, it’s time to get in touch.
Call Them: Phoning is often the most straightforward way for your initial setup. Look for their “New Customer,” “Moving Home,” or “Customer Service” phone number on their website.
What to say: “Hi, I’ve just moved into [Your New Address] on [Your Move-in Date], and I’d like to set up a gas account in my name.”
They will ask for:
Your full name and contact details.
Your new address and the exact move-in date.
The initial gas meter reading you took (and the date you took it).
Your previous address (if you have one, for identity verification).
They may perform a credit check, which is a standard procedure.
Discuss Tariffs: Similar to electricity, they will offer you different gas tariffs:
Fixed Tariff: Your price per unit of gas and daily standing charge remain constant for a set period (e.g., 1 or 2 years). This offers stability.
Variable Tariff: The price per unit can change (go up or down) over time.
For your first account, you’ll likely be put on a “standard variable” tariff initially. You can always review and switch tariffs later to find a better deal.
Choose Your Payment Method:
Direct Debit (Highly Recommended): This is usually the cheapest and most convenient way to pay. The payment is automatically taken from your bank account each month. You’ll need your bank account number and sort code.
On Receipt of Bill: You receive a bill and then manually pay it each time (online, via phone, at a Post Office, or PayPoint). This method can sometimes be more expensive.
Prepayment Meter (PAYG): If your property has a prepayment gas meter, you’ll need to top it up with credit before you can use gas. The supplier will explain how to get a top-up card/key and where to add credit. Be aware that prepayment meters are often the most expensive way to pay for energy.
Online (Less common for initial setup): While some suppliers allow online new account setups, a phone call is often preferred for your first time to ensure all details are correctly captured.
Take Notes: During the call, write down:
The date and time you called.
The name of the person you spoke to (if applicable).
Your new gas account number (they will provide this).
Confirmation of your initial meter reading and move-in date.
The gas tariff you’ve chosen and your preferred payment method.
Step 4: Confirmation and Your First Bill
After you’ve spoken to the gas company, you should receive confirmation of your new account:
Welcome Pack: This will usually be sent by post or email. It will summarise all the details you provided, including your account number, tariff, payment method, and the initial meter reading they have on record. Review this carefully to ensure everything is accurate.
Your First Bill: This will arrive after your first billing cycle (typically monthly or quarterly). It will show your gas usage since your move-in date and the amount you need to pay by the due date. Double-check that the bill starts from your move-in date and reflects the initial meter reading you gave.
Important Considerations for Care Leavers
Your Personal Advisor (PA) is a Key Resource: If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure at any point, your PA can provide invaluable support. They can help you understand the process, sit with you while you make calls, help you interpret bills, or connect you to financial assistance if you’re worried about costs. Don’t hesitate to ask them for help!
Leeds City Council Care Leaver Service: Remember this essential contact information for any queries or support:
Phone: 0113 378 6771
Email: careleavers@leeds.gov.uk
Citizens Advice Leeds: They offer free, impartial advice on energy, debt, and welfare benefits. If something on your bill doesn’t look right, or you’re struggling to manage, they are an excellent source of support.
Don’t Ignore Communication: If you receive letters or emails from a gas supplier you don’t recognise, or if you’re falling behind on payments, address it immediately. Ignoring it will only lead to bigger problems down the line. Always reach out for help.
Keep Records: Create a dedicated folder (physical or digital) for all your gas bills, letters, and payment confirmations. This is vital for your financial record-keeping.
Safety First: If you ever smell gas in your home, open windows and doors, turn off the gas supply at the meter (if you know how), do NOT use electrical switches or phones, and get outside. Then, call the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999.
Setting up your gas supply is a significant step towards managing your own home. With these steps and the support available, you’ll be well on your way!
