Utilities

If you are managing your own utilities, i.e. you have chosen the exclusive rent option, then there are a few things you should consider.

Gas, Electricity & Water

It is important to take your meter readings regularly, especially on the first and last day of your tenancy.  This helps ensure you are only charged for what you use.

Find out who the current supplier is from your landlord/letting agent or by entering your postcode into the Energy Networks Association website.

If you wish to switch suppliers, check your tenancy agreement first, as you may require your landlords permission. Be aware of any cancellation or exit fees. If switching is not an option, you may still be able to save money by moving to a cheaper tariff with your current supplier.

You can shop around for a better deal before moving in, but you will only be able to switch suppliers once your tenancy officially begins. This means you will get at least one bill from the old supplier. You can find information on changing your energy supplier on the Ofgem website.

When your first bill arrives, check that it is based on actual meter readings rather than an estimate. If the reading is incorrect, submit the accurate figure to your supplier. Water bills are usually fixed unless your property has a water meter, in which case you will be charged based on actual usage.

Paying your energy supplier

Paying by Direct Debit is often the most convenient way to pay, and many utility suppliers offer discounts for this method – often around 6% cheaper compared to paying on receipt of a bill. Check with your supplier for details on potential savings.

Even so, it is still important to keep track of meter readings and bills to ensure the Direct Debit is accurate and aligned with your actual usage over the year.

Broadband

Use online comparison websites to find the cheapest deal. If you plan to live in the house for 9-10 months, consider purchasing broadband after the summer but remember that some providers will not allow you to sign up for less than 12 months.

Ensure you choose a deal that allows enough data usage for the whole household and check if there is a reasonable use policy before you sign up.

Gas, Electricity & Water

Many student properties are offered with utility bills included in the rent. While this offers convenience, remember that you are not just paying for the utilities, you are also covering the cost of managing them. You could save money by arranging and paying your own bills.

If you are considering a property with bills included, make sure you understand:

• Which utilities are included i.e., gas, electricity, water, TV licence, broadband?
• How the inclusive rent compares to rent without bills. Are you getting value for money?
• Whether there is a fair usage cap? What is the limit and will it be enough for your household? Ask how usage is monitored and whether you will receive regular updates.
• What the previous tenants have paid and whether any excess charges were required at the end of the tenancy.
• What rates are being charged for gas and electricity? Some letting agents may use business energy tariffs rather than standard domestic ones which are more expensive. For details on up-to-date domestic tariffs please visit Money Saving Experts' "what is a price cap".
• Who to contact with any issues or disputes - is it the landlord, letting agent, or the utility company?

Being informed will help you decide whether an all-inclusive deal is right for you and whether it offers genuine value.