It is important, if there are any changes to your business, you take some simple steps connected to your energy supply.

Most energy supply contracts involve your supplier purchasing energy to meet your needs over a fixed period. How much you pay for energy is usually most dependent on when you use it (eg:- seasons of the year, weekdays or weekends, time of day), which is dictated by the type of business you run and the type of appliances you use.

As a result, energy suppliers try to ensure the consumption patterns – which are called ‘profile class’ (for electricity) and ‘annual quantity’ (for gas) – are correct for each business contract. However you should check these with your supplier whenever:

• You move into new premises, as the consumption pattern will be dictated by the previous tenant (see below for other actions you should take when you move into new premises);
  
  
• There is any change to your business that is likely to significantly affect your consumption pattern; or
  
  
• You change supplier.
  

If you do not ensure you are on the right consumption profile you may end up paying too much for your gas and electricity, or having to pay for energy you have not used.

This is an area where you have to be alert and proactive – do not assume that your supplier will look after this on your behalf.

If you move into premises you should:

• Find out who currently supplies the property;
  
  
• Find out from the current supplier whether the supply and metering arrangements currently installed are sufficient for the type of supply you will need to run your business; and
  
  
• Choose your own supplier as soon as possible.
  

When looking for a supplier to your new premises:

• Make suppliers work for you – get them to advise you on the best type of contract for your needs, and shop around – you have a choice and do not have to simply continue with the supplier who is currently registered to your premises.
  
  
• Make sure you choose the right kind of contract for your business needs. You will not be disconnected if you do not sign up with a supplier immediately but, if you do not have a supplier in place, it is likely you will be billed at out-of-contract (‘deemed’) rates which are usually higher than normal contract rates by the company that presently supplies the premises.
  

Sometimes, you may find yourself being billed for the previous tenant’s consumption. Do not be tempted to ignore the bills just because they are not addressed to you. You are liable for all energy consumed while you are occupying the premises.

If you are leaving premises you should:

• Notify your supplier that you are leaving;
  
  
• Provide your supplier with details of the new tenants if known; and
  
  
• Take a final meter reading when you leave, advise your supplier and keep a record for yourself.