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Moving House - Steps to take for Octopus Energy
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Moving house is exciting—but it can also be chaotic. Between packing boxes and redirecting post, sorting your energy supply might not be top of your list.
This guide walks you through every step to ensure your energy transition is smooth, stress-free, and green.
🏡Before You Move: Prep Your Energy Plan
Step 1: Notify Octopus Energy
If you’re already with Octopus, log into your online account and head to the moving dashboard. You’ll need to provide your move-out date, your new address, the move-in date for the new property, final meter readings from your current home, and opening meter readings from your new home (if available).
Octopus recommends giving at least 17 days’ notice, but they’ll still help if you’re running late.
Step 2: Decide Whether to Stay with Octopus
You have two options:
Take Octopus with you: your tariff and Direct Debit amount will stay the same initially. Once Octopus sees how much energy your new home uses, they’ll help you adjust your payments.Switch to a new supplier: if you’re leaving Octopus, email hello@octopus.energy with your move-out date and final meter readings. You’ll receive a final bill within 7–10 days.Tip: If you're on a fixed tariff, check whether an exit fee applies. Octopus doesn’t always charge one, but it’s best to confirm via email or phone.
🚚On Moving Day: Meter Readings Matter
Step 3: Take Final Readings
Before you leave your old home:
Read your gas and electricity metersNote the readings and the dateSubmit them via your Octopus account or by emailIf you have a smart meter, check whether it’s still working in “smart mode” (sending readings automatically). If not, take manual readings.
Pro tip: Snap a photo of your meter readings for your records.
Step 4: Leave the In-Home Display (IHD)
If your home has a smart meter, leave the IHD (the small screen that shows usage) for the next occupants. It’s linked to the meter and won’t work elsewhere.
🏠After You Move In: Get Set Up Quickly
Step 5: Find Out Who Supplies Your New Home
If Octopus already supplies the property, they’ll usually contact you. You can also get ahead by using their online move-in system. Just enter your postcode, select your address, and Octopus takes care of the rest.
If another supplier is in place, you’ll be on a “deemed contract”—a default tariff that can be expensive. You can switch to Octopus at any time.
Step 6: Submit Opening Meter Readings
On the day you move in:
Read your metersSend the readings to the current supplier (or Octopus if you’re switching)Keep a note of the readings and dateThis ensures your first bill is accurate and you’re not charged for previous usage.
🔄Switching to Octopus Energy: Why It’s Worth It
Green Energy as Standard
Octopus supplies 100% renewable electricity on all tariffs. That means your new home can be powered by wind, solar, and hydro from day one.
Transparent Tariffs
You’ll start on the Flexible Octopus tariff—a variable rate that reflects wholesale energy prices. It’s designed to be fair and competitive.
Smart Tariff Options
If your new home has a compatible smart meter, you may be eligible for:
Intelligent Octopus Go: ideal for EV owners, with cheap overnight ratesOctopus Flux: designed for homes with solar panels and battery storageNote: these tariffs require specific devices and eligibility checks. You’ll need to reapply after moving in.
📋Summary Checklist
Task When to Do It How to Do It Notify Octopus of your move At least 17 days before Via your online account Take final meter readings On move-out day Submit online or via email Leave the IHD Before leaving Leave in the property Find your new supplier On move-in day Use Octopus’s postcode tool Submit opening readings On move-in day Send to current supplier Decide on your tariff After settling in Review usage and switch if needed 🧠FAQs
What happens if I forget to notify Octopus before moving?
They’ll still help you sort things out, but you might receive a bill from the current supplier at your new home until Octopus takes over.
Can I keep my current tariff when I move?
Yes—if you stay with Octopus, your tariff and Direct Debit amount will remain the same initially. You can adjust it later based on your new usage.
Is there an exit fee if I leave Octopus?
Octopus doesn’t always charge exit fees, but it depends on your contract. Check your terms or contact them directly.
What if my new home has a prepayment meter?
You’ll need to top up before using energy. Contact the supplier to register and discuss switching to a standard meter if preferred.
📞Contact Details
🏁Final Thoughts
Moving house doesn’t have to mean energy headaches. With Octopus Energy, you can manage your move online, keep your green tariff, and get support every step of the way. Just remember to take meter readings, notify suppliers, and explore your options once you’re settled.
Whether you’re staying with Octopus or switching for the first time, their flexible approach and commitment to renewable energy make them a strong choice for your new home.
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- This article was generated for general information only and does not constitute legal or any other form of advice.
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