The Tenant Project

Utilities, Council Tax & Bills

Find out which household bills you’re responsible for, how to set up your utility accounts after moving in, and what to do if you’re unsure who’s responsible for paying.

At a Glance

Moving into a new home involves more than collecting the keys. One of the first things you’ll need to do is arrange your utility accounts and make sure you’re paying the correct household bills.

Exactly which bills you’re responsible for depends on your tenancy agreement. Some rents include certain bills, while others require you to arrange everything yourself. Taking a few simple steps during your first few days can help you avoid unexpected charges and billing disputes later on.

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    Which Bills Am I Responsible For?

    In most private rented homes, tenants are responsible for paying the day-to-day household bills unless the tenancy agreement says otherwise. However, responsibility can vary depending on the type of property and the way it is occupied.Common bills include:
    • Electricity
    • Gas
    • Water
    • Council Tax
    • Broadband
    • TV Licence (where required)
    Some landlords include certain bills within your monthly rent, particularly in house shares or student accommodation.Never assume a bill is included – always check your tenancy agreement before moving in.

    Setting Up Your Utility Accounts

    If you’re responsible for paying your own utilities, you should contact each supplier as soon as possible after moving in.

    You’ll usually need:

    • Your move-in date
    • Meter readings
    • Your full name
    • The property address
    • Contact details

    This ensures you’re only charged for the energy you actually use from the day your tenancy begins.

    If you don’t know who supplies your electricity or gas, your landlord, letting agent or previous occupier may be able to tell you.

    Council Tax

    In most privately rented homes, the tenant is responsible for council tax.

    However, there are important exceptions.

    For example:

    • some HMOs
    • some supported accommodation
    • certain student households
    • empty properties
    • properties occupied under particular licence arrangements

    If you’re unsure who is responsible, contact your local council before making assumptions.

    Your bill depends on:

    • Which local authority the property is in.
    • The Council Tax band.
    • Who lives at the property.
    • Whether anyone qualifies for a discount or exemption.

    You should notify your local council shortly after moving in to ensure you’re registered correctly.

    You may qualify for a discount if:

    • You live alone (Single Person Discount).
    • You’re a full-time student.
    • The property qualifies for an exemption.
    • Other circumstances apply under your local council’s scheme.

    If you’re unsure, contact your local authority directly.

    Water Charges

    Water charges may be based on a water meter or a fixed annual charge, depending on the property and the local water company. Water charges vary across England.Some tenants:
    • receive a metered bill based on usage
    • pay a fixed annual charge
    • have water charges included within their rent
    Your tenancy agreement should explain who is responsible.Unlike gas and electricity, you usually don’t choose your water supplier.

    Taking Meter Readings

    One of the most important things you should do on moving day is record your meter readings.

    Take clear photographs of:

    • Electricity meter
    • Gas meter
    • Water meter (if applicable)

    Also photograph:

    • The meter serial number
    • The reading itself
    • The date if possible

    Keeping these photographs protects you if there’s ever a dispute about your first bill.

    If the property has a smart meter, take a photograph of the display on the day you move in. It provides useful evidence if there’s ever a dispute about opening readings.

    Broadband & TV Services

    Before leaving:

    • Take final meter readings.
    • Photograph each meter.
    • Tell your suppliers your moving date.
    • Give a forwarding address.
    • Pay any outstanding balances.

    Doing this helps prevent being charged for someone else’s energy use after you’ve left.

    What Happens When You Move Out?

    If fibre isn’t already installed, check whether landlord permission is needed before arranging installation.

    You may wish to arrange this before moving in, as installation appointments can sometimes take several weeks.

    If you watch or record live television, or use BBC iPlayer, you’ll normally need a valid TV Licence.

    Streaming services such as Netflix, Disney+ and Amazon Prime don’t require a TV Licence unless you’re watching live TV or BBC iPlayer.

    What if Bills Are Included?

    If your rent includes some or all household bills:
    • Check exactly which bills are covered.
    • Ask whether there are any usage limits.
    • Find out who to contact if there's a problem.
    • Keep a copy of the tenancy agreement confirming what's included.

    Even where bills are included in your rent, it’s worth checking exactly what this means.

    For example:

    • Are there any usage limits?
    • Is broadband included?
    • Does “all bills included” include council tax?
    • Are there fair usage policies?

    If something is included, ask for it to be clearly stated in the tenancy agreement.

    Top Tips

    • Photograph all meter readings before unpacking.
    • Notify your utility suppliers within the first few days.
    • Register for Council Tax as soon as possible.
    • Keep copies of your first utility bills.
    • Check your tenancy agreement before assuming a bill is included.
    • Ask your landlord if you're unsure who's responsible.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How quickly should I contact utility companies?

    Ideally within the first few days of moving in. This helps ensure you’re billed correctly from the start of your tenancy.

    Do I have to pay Council Tax?

    Most tenants do, although there are discounts and exemptions available depending on your circumstances.

    What if my landlord says bills are included?

    Always check your tenancy agreement. It should clearly state which bills are covered and whether any limits apply.

    Can my landlord disconnect my utilities?

    Generally, no.

    A landlord must not deliberately cut off essential services such as gas, electricity or water to force a tenant to leave. Doing so may amount to unlawful eviction or harassment.

    What happens if I forget to tell the energy supplier I’ve moved in?

    You may still be responsible for energy used from the date your tenancy began.

    Contact the supplier as soon as possible and provide your opening meter readings.

    Can I change energy supplier?

    Usually yes, unless your tenancy agreement places lawful restrictions on doing so or bills are included in your rent.

    Moving Day Checklist

    Before You Unpack:
    • Photograph the electricity meter
    • Photograph the gas meter
    • Photograph the water meter (if applicable)
    • Record all meter readings
    • Notify your energy suppliers
    • Register for Council Tax
    • Check which bills are included in your rent
    • Arrange broadband if required
    • Store your photos somewhere safe

    Key Takeaways

    • Check your tenancy agreement to see which bills you're responsible for.
    • Contact your utility suppliers as soon as you move in.
    • Record meter readings with photographs before using the utilities.
    • Register with your local council if you're responsible for paying Council Tax.
    • Keep copies of bills, emails and meter readings in case any disputes arise.

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