Moving to London means dealing with essential utilities setup – a process that can feel overwhelming at first but becomes manageable with proper guidance.
This guide breaks down the steps to get your electricity, gas, water, and internet services up and running in your new London home.
Whether you’re renting or buying, understanding how to efficiently set up your utilities will help you avoid service interruptions and unexpected costs.
Before You Start
Take meter readings as soon as you move in and photograph them for your records.
- Electricity meter number
- Gas meter number (MPRN)
- Water meter reading
Setting Up Electricity and Gas
Contact your property’s current energy supplier – you can find this by calling the Meter Number Helpline at 0870 608 1524.
Research and compare energy providers through comparison sites like uSwitch or MoneySuperMarket to find better rates.
Major Energy Suppliers in London:
- British Gas: 0333 202 9802
- EDF Energy: 0333 200 5100
- E.ON: 0345 052 0000
- Scottish Power: 0800 027 0072
Water Services
Thames Water manages most London properties (0800 316 9800).
Set up your account online at thameswater.co.uk or by phone, providing your new address and move-in date.
Internet and Broadband
Start your internet setup at least 2-3 weeks before moving.
Popular providers and their basic fiber packages:
| Provider | Starting Price | Average Speed |
|---|---|---|
| BT | £27.99/month | 36 Mbps |
| Sky | £25/month | 59 Mbps |
| Virgin Media | £28/month | 100 Mbps |
Council Tax Registration
Register for Council Tax through your local borough council’s website within your first week.
Find your borough at gov.uk/find-local-council.
TV License
Purchase your TV license at tvlicensing.co.uk (£159 annually) if you plan to watch live TV or BBC iPlayer.
Money-Saving Tips
- Choose dual fuel tariffs for better rates on gas and electricity
- Set up direct debit payments for discounted rates
- Consider smart meters for accurate billing
- Check if you qualify for the Warm Home Discount scheme
Getting Help and Support
Contact Citizens Advice (0808 223 1133) for free guidance on utility issues or disputes.
Visit energysavingtrust.org.uk for tips on reducing utility costs and energy efficiency.
Next Steps for Your London Move
Keep all utility account numbers, contact information, and initial meter readings in a safe place.
Set calendar reminders for your first bills and contract renewal dates.
Emergency Contacts and Service Disruptions
Save these emergency numbers for utility issues:
- Gas Emergency: 0800 111 999
- Electricity Power Cut: 105
- Thames Water Emergency: 0800 714 614
Additional Services to Consider
Home Insurance
Set up contents insurance for your belongings, and buildings insurance if you’re a homeowner.
Smart Home Devices
Consider installing smart thermostats and meters to monitor and control utility usage remotely.
Seasonal Utility Management
- Summer: Check air conditioning efficiency
- Autumn: Book boiler service before winter
- Winter: Protect pipes from freezing
- Spring: Review utility contracts for better deals
Making Your London Home Energy Efficient
Implement these measures to reduce utility costs:
- Install LED lighting throughout your home
- Use draft excluders on doors and windows
- Invest in proper insulation
- Consider a smart meter installation
Successfully Managing Your London Utilities
Keep all documentation organized and readily accessible for future reference.
Review your utility usage and costs quarterly to ensure you’re on the most suitable tariffs.
Set up online accounts with each provider to manage your services efficiently and access digital bills.
FAQs
- How do I set up electricity and gas in my new London home?
Contact the current energy supplier of your property (ask landlord/previous tenant) and provide meter readings. You can then choose to stay with them or switch to a new supplier using comparison websites like uSwitch or MoneySuperMarket. - What documents do I need to set up utilities in London?
You’ll need proof of identity (passport/driving license), proof of address (tenancy agreement/mortgage document), and your bank details. Some suppliers may also request your UK visa if you’re moving from abroad. - How do I set up water supply in London?
Thames Water is London’s main water supplier. Contact them with your new address, moving date, and meter reading. Unlike other utilities, you cannot choose your water supplier as it’s region-specific. - What’s the process for setting up council tax in London?
Register for council tax through your local borough council’s website. You’ll need your tenancy agreement or proof of ownership. Students and single occupants may be eligible for discounts. - How long does it typically take to get utilities connected in London?
If the property already has existing connections, services can be transferred within 48 hours. New connections may take 2-3 weeks. Internet installation usually takes 1-2 weeks. - How do I set up internet and broadband in London?
Major providers include BT, Virgin Media, and Sky. Check availability at your postcode, choose a package, and schedule installation. Installation times vary between providers and existing infrastructure. - What are the average monthly utility costs in London?
For a medium-sized apartment: electricity/gas (£120-£150), water (£30-£40), council tax (£130-£200), internet (£25-£40). Costs vary significantly based on property size and usage. - How do I set up a TV license in London?
Visit the TV Licensing website to set up a license if you watch or record live TV or use BBC iPlayer. Current annual cost is £159, payable annually or in installments. - What should I do about utilities when moving out of a London property?
Take final meter readings, notify all utility providers of your move-out date, provide forwarding address, and settle final bills. Give at least 48 hours notice before moving.
