The energy supplier shared advice to prevent homeowners from getting caught out
British Gas has urged customers to take action to ‘avoid any surprise bills’. The energy supplier issued advice for any customers who are moving homes. The services provider explained that there are various checks people should complete to ensure everything is in good order when they move in – and to prevent customers from getting caught out by unexpected bills.
A British Gas employee shared the advice for customers in a social media video. Posting on Facebook, British Gas warned customers: “Planning a move? Make sure your new home is running smoothly and avoid any surprise bills! A quick fire alarm test and checking the meter reading are simple steps to get you started.”
In the video, the team member highlighted the checks you should complete. She said: “Moving into a new home can be very exciting, but there are a few things you need to prioritise once you get the keys. Start by taking your meter readings. You don’t want to end up paying the last owner’s energy usage.
“Make sure to check your smoke detector and make sure your carbon monoxide alarm is working properly as well. You can do this by pressing the test button on the surface, and it will make a loud noise. That’s how you know it’s working properly.”
The British Gas employee continued: “Your stopcock is the valve for your main water supply. It’s important that you know where this is, just in case you get a leak in the property.
“Locate your thermostat so you can easily control your heating. And don’t forget to locate your fuse box. This is just in case you have any electrical emergency, so you can turn off your electrics quickly and safely, and you can restore any circuits that may have tripped. If you’re a new homeowner, it’s always advised to get your boiler serviced by a qualified gas engineer.”
More information for customers is available on the British Gas website. On a webpage sharing advice for people moving home, British Gas said: “It’s helpful to ask the sellers, or your new landlord where these things are:
- Stopcock (valve for controlling the mains water supply)
- Instructions for appliances
- Gas and electricity meters
- Thermostat
- Fuse box
“If you’re selling, make a list of where all the important things are in your home, and leave it for the people moving in.” British Gas also offers a free moving home checklist. It sets out what to do before moving home, who to notify when you move, and what to do once you’ve moved.
Customers can download the checklist for free, which covers everything from redirecting your mail to notifying your bank and taking a reading if you’re on a water meter. The checklist is available here.
